### Resumption of Direct Flights Between China and India: A Milestone in Bilateral Relations After a five-year hiatus, direct flights between China and India have resumed, marking a significant step towards normalizing diplomatic ties and enhancing economic interactions. The first flight, operated by IndiGo, took off from Kolkata to Guangzhou, carrying approximately 180 passengers. This resumption is seen as a crucial move to reconnect the two nations, which have faced strained relations due to the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions since 2020. The revival of air connectivity is expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the world's two most populous countries [http://island.lk/china-and-india-resume-direct-flights-after-five-year-hiatus, https://internationalnewsandviews.com/india-china-direct-flights-resume-2025-390309-2]. ### Structure of the Response: Key Segments 1. **Background of the Hiatus** - Direct flights were suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border tensions. - The resumption of flights is a response to improving diplomatic relations between India and China. 2. **Details of the Resumed Flights** - IndiGo's flight 6E1703 from Kolkata to Guangzhou marks the first direct service in five years. - The flight is expected to operate daily, enhancing connectivity for travelers and businesses. 3. **Implications for Bilateral Relations** - The resumption is viewed as a significant diplomatic gesture aimed at rebuilding trust. - It is anticipated to facilitate increased trade and tourism, contributing to economic growth in both countries. 4. **Future Prospects** - Additional routes, including a Delhi-Guangzhou service, are set to launch soon, further expanding connectivity. - The move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties amidst ongoing regional competition. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Flight Details**: The first IndiGo flight from Kolkata to Guangzhou took off at 10 PM IST on October 26, 2025, and landed in Guangzhou at approximately 4:05 AM local time [https://www.financialexpress.com/business/airlines-aviation-india-china-direct-flights-resume-after-gap-of-five-years-kolkata-to-guangzhou-service-departs-tonight-4022097]. - **Passenger Capacity**: The inaugural flight carried around 180 passengers, indicating strong demand for the service [https://www.firstpost.com/world/india-china-flights-resume-after-five-years-indigo-reconnects-kolkata-and-guangzhou-13945315.html]. - **Economic Impact**: The resumption of flights is expected to enhance trade, with India's exports to China showing a year-on-year increase of 34% [https://legit.ng/business-economy/economy/1680298-india-china-resume-direct-flights-ties-improve]. ### Conclusion: A New Chapter in India-China Relations The resumption of direct flights between India and China is a **significant milestone** in the journey towards improved bilateral relations. 1. **Historical Context**: The five-year gap was primarily due to the pandemic and geopolitical tensions. 2. **Operational Details**: IndiGo's inaugural flight signifies a renewed commitment to connectivity and cooperation. 3. **Economic and Diplomatic Implications**: This move is expected to foster trade and tourism, enhancing mutual understanding and collaboration. 4. **Future Developments**: With plans for additional routes, the potential for deeper ties between the two nations is promising. This development not only reconnects the two countries but also symbolizes a cautious yet hopeful approach to rebuilding their relationship [https://www.siasat.com/indigo-resumes-kolkata-guangzhou-direct-flights-3287952, https://www.anews.com.tr/world/2025/10/27/china-india-resume-direct-flights-after-5-year-hiatus].