Direct flights between India and China have resumed, signalling a gradual improvement in bilateral relations.
On Monday, IndiGo flight 6E 1703 from Kolkata landed in Guangzhou, carrying about 180 passengers.
Flights between the two countries were suspended in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and tensions following a deadly clash in a disputed Himalayan border area.
The suspension lasted for over five years, affecting travel, tourism, and business exchanges.
The resumption of services is expected to facilitate people-to-people contact, enhance trade, and support the gradual normalisation of bilateral exchanges, according to the Indian government.
Passengers welcomed the development, noting that “direct flights would reduce travel time and simplify business and personal trips.”
Krishna Goyal, a passenger travelling for business, said; “the flights would strengthen trade and bilateral relations.”
China Eastern Airlines is also set to launch a flight connecting Shanghai and Delhi from 9 November, operating three times a week.
Airline staff at Kolkata Airport marked the occasion by lighting traditional brass oil lamps, while Chinese consular officials described the day as “very important for India-China relations.”
BBC/ Jide Johnson