Post by : Rameen Ariff

In a significant move after over four years, India and China have reinstated direct flight services, enhancing connectivity between the two countries with a daily non-stop flight from Kolkata to Guangzhou. The inaugural IndiGo A320 Neo aircraft departed from Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport at 10 pm on Sunday, carrying 176 travelers onboard.

The resumption of this route signifies a new era in cross-border connectivity, which had been halted in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating border issues. This revival comes as diplomatic relations improve, illustrating a mutual desire to enhance collaboration and promote exchanges among the people.

A ceremonial lamp-lighting ceremony marked this historic event at the airport, symbolizing the refreshed friendship between the two nations. Officials from IndiGo Airlines and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) attended, underscoring the occasion's emotional and strategic relevance.

P.R. Beuria, the Airport Director, mentioned that the restart of direct flights between India and China will bolster tourism and business relations while easing travel for passengers from both countries. He noted that this route would further establish Kolkata as a key international aviation hub in eastern India.

Now operational daily, the direct flight from Kolkata to Guangzhou serves as a crucial symbol of recovery, partnership, and the reopening of air routes, linking two of Asia’s most vibrant nations.

Main keywords: India-China direct flights, Kolkata to Guangzhou service, IndiGo flight, India-China travel resume, air service revival.

#Global