Direct Flights Between India and China Take Off… Delhi-Shanghai Route Now Operational!

Direct air services between India and China have officially begun, connecting Delhi and Shanghai with non-stop flights. China Eastern Airlines has already been operating flights on the Shanghai-Delhi route with 95% occupancy, marking the first direct service from China to India after a five-year gap.

IndiGo has also launched services on this route, and Air India plans to start its Delhi-Shanghai flights in February 2026. Additionally, Air India is preparing to operate on the new Mumbai-Shanghai route to expand connectivity.

Officials say these direct flights will help travelers take full advantage of business, trade, education, healthcare, and cultural opportunities between the two nations. Weekly, four flights between Delhi and Shanghai are expected. The new air link is seen as a step toward strengthening trade and economic ties between India and China.