A significant milestone in India-China relations was achieved with the recommencement of direct flights after a five-year interruption. Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport witnessed the historic departure of IndiGo flight 6E1703 at 10:07 PM, bound for Guangzhou. The flight carried 176 passengers and is scheduled to arrive at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport at 4:05 AM.
This revitalized air service is set to re-establish vital connections for trade, tourism, and personal travel between the two nations. Daily non-stop flights will now connect Kolkata and Guangzhou, facilitating smoother journeys and fostering closer ties. Further expansion includes the Delhi-Guangzhou route starting November 10, and the reintroduction of Shanghai-Delhi flights on November 9.
Diplomatic representatives have expressed optimism about this development. The Chinese Deputy Consul General in Kolkata emphasized the “very important” nature of this day for bilateral relations, seeing the return of direct flights as a clear sign of improved ties after a long suspension. The restart is expected to infuse new energy into both passenger and cargo movements.
The launch was celebrated with a ceremonial lamp-lighting, bringing together passengers, airport personnel, and airline representatives. This initiative is seen as a concrete outcome of recent high-level discussions, demonstrating a commitment to fostering practical cooperation. The emphasis is on enhancing collaboration as regional leaders and within multilateral forums.
The return of these direct flights is poised to enhance business prospects and tourism, bolstering Kolkata’s position as a key international aviation center. This reconnection signifies more than just air travel; it represents a commitment to rebuilding trust, expanding economic opportunities, and deepening people-to-people exchanges between India and China.