After a five-year gap, India–China direct flights resume. IndiGo's flight 6E 1703 took off from Kolkata to Guangzhou on October 26 with 180 passengers onboard, marking a hopeful turning point in relations between the two neighbors.
The route had been frozen since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising political tensions. As the plane departed, airport staff lit traditional brass lamps, a symbolic gesture celebrating this long-awaited reconnection between Asia's two largest nations.
India China Aviation News Updates
- The Launch: IndiGo launches Kolkata-Guangzhou route (flight 6E 1703/6E 1704).
- India China flight schedule: 6E 1703/6E 1704 operates three times weekly starting October 26, 2025, with fares from ₹28,000 one-way.
- Milestone Moment: First direct commercial flight in five years departs with 180 passengers, celebrated with traditional brass lamp ceremony at Kolkata airport.
- Expanding Connectivity: China Eastern Airlines to start Delhi-Shanghai service from November 9, 2025; before suspension, the countries operated 2,588 scheduled flights annually.
- Thawing Relations: Both governments call it "gradual normalization of bilateral exchanges" following PM Modi's 2025 China visit and resumption of Chinese tourist visas in July.
- Strategic Choice: Kolkata was selected for its historic Chinese community in the Tangra district and longstanding trade ties with southern China.
- Convenience Restored: India China flight schedule cut journey time by several hours; previously, passengers needed three connecting flights between nations.
- Economic Opportunity: Business travelers, tourists, and students are expected to benefit from the restored air corridor after a five-year gap.
What this mean for Travelers
India China flight schedule is a game-changer for business travelers and tourists alike. What once required two or three exhausting connecting flights now takes just under five hours.
Krishna Goyal, among the first passengers on the inaugural flight, shared his relief: "Earlier, we had to take multiple connecting flights to reach China. This will definitely boost trade and business."
The restored air link promises easier movement for students, businesspeople, and families.
India - China Flight Schedule
- Airline: IndiGo (Flight 6E 1703 / 6E 1704 – Return)
- Route: Kolkata (CCU) - Guangzhou (CAN)
- Aircraft: Airbus A320neo
- Frequency: 3 times per week
- Flight Duration: Approx. 4 hours 45 minutes
- Launch Date: 26 October 2025
- India China Flight Fares (Introductory): Starting around ₹ 28,000 one-way (Economy)
- Next Launch: China Eastern Airlines – Delhi - Shanghai (Starting 9 November 2025)
