India-China Direct Flights Set to Resume Soon?
Introduction
Direct flights between India and China had been suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic geopolitical issues, but now they are expected to resume. Indian and Chinese airlines are getting ready to operate, which indicates an improvement in regional economic air connectivity.
Key Aspects
- Direct India-China flights are expected to resume in coming weeks.
- Carriers such as Air India, IndiGo, China Eastern, and Air China expected to lead operations.
- There is high demand in terms of business growth, Medical tourism and students, that drove the push for resumption.
- A significant boost for trade, investment, and people-to-people exchange between the two countries.
- Expected to reduce dependence on costly third-country transit routes.
Legal Framework
- Air services of both the countries are governed by the bilateral air services agreement between India and China.
- Subject to DGCA (India) and CAAC (China) aviation safety and regulatory approvals.
- Compliance with international aviation protocols under ICAO.
- Coordination on slot allocation, frequency, and capacity rights between carriers.
Conclusion
The resuming of flights is not just a small matter of transportation; it is an indication of a full-fledged re-opening of the economy, greater ease of access, and improved inter-regional linkages. For the two countries concerned, it is a vital leap of faith in the relationship coupled with meeting the demands of a large-strata of students, professionals, and traders.
Source: Hindustan Times
