New Diplomatic Push for Resumption

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New Diplomatic Push for Resumption
New Diplomatic Push for Resumption

India-China Flights Still Grounded: Regional Hubs Like Singapore and Vietnam Emerge as Key Connectors

India-China direct flights have remained suspended since 2020, impacting travelers and trade. As Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri begins talks in Beijing, hopes rise for normalization of air connectivity and visa issuance. Regional hubs like Singapore, Vietnam, and Bangladesh have gained prominence in facilitating travel between the two nations.

India-China Direct Flights Suspension: A Snapshot

The ongoing suspension of direct flights between India and China, in place since early 2020, has significantly disrupted travel and trade between the two Asian giants. This gap has allowed regional hubs such as Singapore, Vietnam, and Bangladesh to capitalize as connecting points for passengers navigating between the two nations.

In December 2019, Indian carriers like IndiGo and Air India operated about 168 direct flights weekly, accounting for 31% of scheduled India-China routes. However, the pandemic-induced halt and prolonged diplomatic tensions have kept these routes grounded.

Signs of Progress: Diplomatic Push for Resumption

As signs of thawing relations emerge, discussions surrounding the resumption of direct flights and normalization of visa issuance are expected to take center stage during Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s Beijing visit starting today. These issues were earlier raised during Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu’s meeting with the Civil Aviation Administration of China’s Song Zhiyong in September 2024.

China has been pushing for the resumption of direct air connectivity, a demand reiterated multiple times since June 2024. India, however, has maintained a cautious stance, balancing concerns over diplomatic complexities and public health considerations.

Impact on Travel Dynamics

The absence of direct flights has significantly reshaped the travel landscape. Passengers traveling between India and China now rely on connecting hubs in neighboring countries like:

Singapore: Known for its world-class Changi Airport, Singapore has become a key transit point for India-China travelers.

Vietnam: With growing airline capacity, Vietnam offers competitive fares and strategic connectivity.

Bangladesh: Proximity and efficient operations at Dhaka Airport make it an emerging choice for regional connectivity.

This shift has added to travel time and costs, particularly for business travelers and students, two of the largest groups navigating the India-China corridor.

Challenges for Airlines

Both Indian and Chinese airlines are keenly watching developments. Resuming operations will not only address pent-up demand but also bring operational challenges:

Route Profitability: Ensuring sufficient passenger loads to make routes financially viable.

Infrastructure Readiness: Airports in both countries must align operational capabilities for seamless passenger handling.

Regulatory Approvals: Bilateral agreements will need updates to reflect the new normal in aviation.

The Road Ahead

The discussions between India and China hold the potential to address a long-standing gap in connectivity. However, any progress will depend on mutual trust and comprehensive agreements covering health, safety, and bilateral interests.

While regional hubs have stepped up, direct flights remain crucial for seamless travel and strengthening economic ties. An optimistic resolution could also pave the way for visa normalization, a critical factor for smoother people-to-people interactions.