India Declines China’s Request to Resume Direct Flights Amid Ongoing Border Tensions

India has resisted China’s calls to restart direct passenger flights, which have been suspended for the past four years, due to ongoing border disputes that continue to strain relations between the two nations. Despite the potential economic benefits of resuming these flights, New Delhi’s stance remains firm as long as border tensions persist.

The halt in direct flights originated after a severe military clash in June 2020 along their disputed Himalayan border, which resulted in casualties on both sides and led to an increase in military presence in the region. Since then, India has imposed restrictions on Chinese investments, banned numerous Chinese apps, and discontinued passenger air routes, although cargo flights between the countries are still operational.

China has repeatedly expressed interest in re-establishing air links, emphasizing the mutual economic advantages, especially as it faces a slower recovery in international travel post-COVID-19 compared to India’s flourishing aviation market. “We hope the Indian side will work with China in the same direction for the early resumption of direct flights,” stated China’s Foreign Ministry.

However, a senior Indian official involved in bilateral relations stated, “Unless there is peace and tranquillity on the border, the rest of the relationship cannot move forward.” This sentiment underlines the broader diplomatic challenges affecting various aspects of the India-China relationship, including civil aviation.

In 2019, direct flights between the two countries peaked, with 539 scheduled flights in December alone, involving airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and several Chinese carriers. Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, these flights were halted, and despite lifting travel restrictions, the direct air routes have not been re-established. Travelers now face longer journey times via third-country hubs, benefiting other international carriers.

The lack of direct flights not only impacts the convenience and cost of travel but also reflects the geopolitical frictions that dictate the pace and nature of economic interactions between India and China. While airline executives like Indigo CEO Pieter Elbers and Air India CEO Campbell Wilson acknowledge the substantial market potential, they concede that decisions depend on diplomatic progress.

As discussions continue behind the scenes, the re-initiation of direct flights between India and China remains uncertain, hinging on significant diplomatic breakthroughs that would address the underlying tensions.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, reuters.com