Mumbai: The long-awaited resumption of air services is being hailed as a crucial step in restoring connectivity for business travelers, students, and families who have endured lengthy layovers through third countries since early 2020.

The decision follows an agreement between the civil aviation authorities of both nations, with operations slated to begin on or after October 26, 2025, as part of the winter season’s flight schedule. Carriers including IndiGo and Air India, along with leading Chinese airlines, are preparing to relaunch routes connecting designated cities once all safety, commercial, and operational checks are cleared.

This development is seen as part of broader diplomatic efforts to normalize ties after years of strain. Since late 2024, both sides have introduced confidence-building measures, including military disengagements along contested borders and the easing of visa and trade restrictions.

Direct flights were halted in early 2020, first due to the pandemic and later exacerbated by border clashes that plunged relations to their lowest point in decades. Travelers were forced to rely on detours through hubs such as Hong Kong, Bangkok, or Singapore, adding time and cost to journeys.