Kolkata Flights Resume Daily Service to Guangzhou After Five Years
Kolkata has re-established direct air connectivity with Guangzhou, China, as IndiGo resumes daily non-stop flights beginning October 26, marking the first time in over five years that such services are available. The airline will operate the route using its Airbus A320neo fleet, with plans to expand direct connectivity to Delhi once regulatory approvals are secured.
The revival of the Kolkata–Guangzhou route signals a strategic move to strengthen trade, tourism, and business links between India and China. The resumption follows the Ministry of External Affairs’ recent announcement permitting direct flights between select Indian and Chinese cities. China remains India’s largest bilateral trading partner, making the renewed air link a critical facilitator of commerce and cultural exchange.
Experts in aviation and international trade suggest that restoring flights after a half-decade hiatus will improve business mobility, support tourism, and provide a subtle diplomatic signal of thawing relations. Despite lingering border tensions, officials indicate that air connectivity can serve as a stabilising force in bilateral relations.Aviation authorities highlight that the operational route will leverage previous partnerships and infrastructure experience in China to ensure a smooth restart. The daily flights are expected to accommodate both leisure and corporate passengers, supporting cross-border engagement in a post-pandemic landscape.
Analysts note that Kolkata’s role as an eastern hub offers strategic advantages for trade and connectivity, providing a direct gateway to southern China. Industry experts also emphasise that the timing of the route resumption aligns with broader efforts to expand India’s global aviation network while boosting regional tourism and investment opportunities.The airline’s announcement comes shortly after high-level diplomacy between India and China, with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit renewing focus on trade cooperation. Business leaders believe the resumption could also mitigate some trade deficit concerns and enhance logistical efficiency for exports and imports between the two nations.
Officials further emphasise that passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and operational readiness remain a priority as flights resume. IndiGo’s commitment to regular monitoring, modern fleet utilisation, and customer-focused service underpins the anticipated success of the route.While the Kolkata–Guangzhou service marks a significant step, industry observers suggest that broader expansion, including potential Delhi–Guangzhou connectivity, could further consolidate India’s aviation footprint in East Asia.
