New Delhi: Indian airlines are aggressively expanding their footprint in the lucrative Chinese market following diplomatic agreements that restored direct air links, which had been suspended for nearly six years.
Leading the charge is Air India, which announced it will restart its non-stop service between Delhi and Shanghai (PVG) from February 1, 2026. This marks a significant return for the Tata Group-owned airline to mainland China.
Reconnecting a Vital Air Corridor
Air India’s move follows the revival of direct services initiated by IndiGo, which launched flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou in October 2025. Chinese carrier China Eastern has also resumed flights connecting Shanghai and Delhi.
- Service Details: Air India will operate the Delhi-Shanghai route four times a week using its twin-aisle Boeing 787-8 aircraft, which offers 18 flat beds in Business Class and 238 seats in Economy Class.
- Expansion Plans: Subject to regulatory approvals, Air India also intends to introduce non-stop flights between Mumbai and Shanghai later in 2026. Shanghai will be the airline’s 48th international destination.
Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD of Air India, emphasized the importance of the route: “The resumption of our Delhi-Shanghai services is more than a route launch. It is a bridge between two great, ancient civilisations and modern economic powerhouses.” He added that the service will enable travelers to pursue opportunities in business, trade, education, and culture.
The reinstatement of direct flights is expected to significantly ease travel and boost exchanges in sectors like pharmaceuticals, technology, and trade, which had been constrained by the need to rely on connecting hubs in Southeast Asia. Prior to the 2020 suspension, India and China had 539 scheduled direct flights per month.
