BEIJING— China Eastern Airlines (MU) is set to resume direct flights between Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) and Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) starting November 9, marking the restoration of a key air corridor between China and India after a five-year hiatus.
The airline’s online schedule shows that the Shanghai–Delhi service will operate three times a week. The resumption comes amid a cautious diplomatic thaw following years of strained relations and suspended air travel due to border tensions and the pandemic.
China Southern Shanghai to Delhi Flight
The route is likely to be served by a wide-body aircraft designed for medium-haul international operations. Ticket sales for the new service are already available through the carrier’s website and major travel platforms.
The airline has not yet issued an official press statement, but its schedule update confirms that both business and economy class fares are open for booking.
The return of the Shanghai–Delhi flight is expected to provide travelers, students, and business professionals with an important link between the two Asian economic hubs. The flights will take place on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, reported Channel News Asia.
The decision follows recent diplomatic efforts to normalize relations between the two neighboring nations.
Diplomatic and Economic Context
The move comes soon after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, his first in more than seven years.
During the meeting, both countries discussed ways to enhance trade cooperation while addressing India’s growing trade deficit with China.
Officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs had indicated earlier this month that commercial flights between the two nations would soon resume. The announcement is viewed as a step toward improving people-to-people connectivity and reviving business travel.
India’s largest airline, IndiGo (6E), had recently announced its own expansion of China routes, including new daily services between Kolkata (CCU) and Guangzhou (CAN).
The Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport had earlier expressed its willingness to support more direct connections, such as Guangzhou–Delhi, signaling an intent to strengthen bilateral aviation ties.
Bottom Line
The resumption of China Eastern Airlines’ Shanghai–Delhi route marks a significant milestone in the gradual normalization of India-China relations.
While the two countries continue to address broader geopolitical challenges, the return of direct air connectivity signals progress in rebuilding mutual trust and cooperation.
Regular flight operations are expected to boost business exchanges, tourism, and educational mobility, all of which have been disrupted since 2020 when both nations suspended direct air links following border clashes.
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