By As diplomatic discussions heat up between India and China, the restoration of direct flights remains a key issue. With no direct flights since 2020, Singapore, Vietnam, and Bangladesh have become prominent hubs for passengers traveling between the two countries. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Beijing could mark a turning point in air connectivity.
The India-China Air Travel Disconnect
Since early 2020, direct flights between India and China have been suspended, leaving passengers to seek alternative routes through regional hubs. Before the suspension, India and China had extensive air connectivity, with airlines like Air India and IndiGo operating over 168 flights per week.
The absence of direct flights has had a ripple effect on tourism, trade, and business exchanges, as well as causing logistical hurdles for students and professionals. As the diplomatic climate shows signs of thawing, travelers are hopeful that air connectivity will return soon.
Regional Hubs Step Up: Singapore, Vietnam, and Bangladesh
While direct flights remain suspended, regional hubs have stepped up to serve travelers. Countries like Singapore, Vietnam, and Bangladesh are benefiting from increased traffic, offering convenient alternatives for connecting between India and China:
Singapore: Changi Airport continues to be a central transit hub with numerous daily flights between India and China.
Vietnam: Vietnam’s strategic location has made it an attractive stopover for travelers, with affordable options and efficient connections.
Bangladesh: Dhaka is emerging as an important hub due to its proximity to India and growing connectivity with China, allowing quicker transfer times.
These hubs provide a temporary solution but come with added travel time and higher costs for passengers.
Diplomatic Talks for Resumption of Direct Flights
As Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visits Beijing, discussions about resuming direct flights are expected to dominate the talks. The Indian government has been cautious about reinstating these flights, citing concerns over health protocols and bilateral relations.
China, however, has strongly advocated for the resumption of air connectivity, believing it will help restore normalcy in bilateral ties and bolster trade relations. The talks could potentially lay the groundwork for an agreement that addresses these issues and brings back direct flight routes.
Economic and Social Impact of Flight Suspension
The suspension of direct flights has far-reaching consequences:
Increased Costs for Travelers: Passengers are forced to pay higher prices and spend more time in transit due to the lack of direct flights.
Trade Disruptions: The absence of quick air travel has hampered business and trade operations between the two countries.
Educational Setbacks: Indian students studying in China face difficulties in planning travel, affecting their academic commitments.
This ongoing disruption emphasizes the importance of resuming direct connectivity, not only for travelers but for the broader economy.
Challenges for Airlines and Airports
For airlines and airports on both sides, resuming flights will require overcoming several challenges:
Passenger Demand: Airlines will need to ensure sufficient demand for the routes to be financially viable.
Regulatory Approvals: The two countries will need to negotiate airspace rights and health safety protocols.
Infrastructure Readiness: Airports must prepare to handle higher volumes of passengers once flights resume.
Both governments will also need to address the logistical challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure the smooth return of air travel.
A Path Forward: Restoring India-China Air Links
The discussions in Beijing provide an important opportunity for India and China to find common ground and restore direct flights. Such a move would greatly benefit travelers, businesses, and economies on both sides.
While regional hubs have helped fill the void, resuming direct flights will cut travel time, reduce costs, and improve bilateral relations, paving the way for enhanced connectivity between two of the world’s most influential nations.