China Southern resumes Guangzhou-Delhi flights ahead of Xi's Indi
· wellness
China Southern to Resume Guangzhou-Delhi Flights Ahead of Xi’s India Visit
The news that China Southern Airlines will restart regular passenger flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi on September 21 has been met with a mix of relief and skepticism. The resumption of this direct air link comes just ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to India for the Brics summit, but it also raises questions about the underlying dynamics driving improved air connectivity between the two countries.
In recent months, China Southern Airlines has joined other carriers in reviving flights between India and China. Air China resumed its Beijing-Delhi service in April, while China Eastern Airlines restarted direct flights between Kunming and Kolkata on April 18. Indian carrier IndiGo has also launched a daily non-stop service between Kolkata and Shanghai, and restored flights from Kolkata to Guangzhou as well as Delhi to the Chinese city.
The suspension of direct flights during the Covid-19 pandemic was a symptom of deeper tensions between India and China. The Doklam and Galwan standoffs had already strained relations, and the pandemic provided an opportunity for both countries to reassess their priorities. However, air travel connectivity has historically been a point of contention in India-China relations.
In 2017, India suspended Chinese carriers from flying over its airspace, leading China Southern Airlines to cancel flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi. Now, with the resumption of direct flights, we’re witnessing a tentative rebound in air travel links. But what does this mean for the future of India-China relations?
The Brics summit provides an opportunity for China and India to strengthen their partnership on global issues. As emerging economies, both countries are keenly aware of the need for cooperation on trade, finance, technology, development, and global governance.
China’s expanding economic influence requires India to maintain a delicate balance between engagement and caution. While increased air travel connectivity is a positive development, it’s essential not to overlook the complex web of interests at play in this relationship.
In the lead-up to Xi’s visit, we’ll be watching closely for signs of progress on trade agreements, infrastructure projects, and people-to-people exchanges. However, India must also remain vigilant about potential risks, including increased Chinese investment in strategic sectors such as energy and technology.
The resumption of direct flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi is a small but significant step towards rebuilding air travel links between India and China. As the two countries navigate this tentative rebound, it’s essential to keep our eyes on the broader picture – the future of India-China relations, and what this means for regional and global stability.
With Xi’s visit to India just around the corner, one thing is clear: air travel connectivity may be improving, but the challenges ahead remain significant.
Reader Views
- TCThe Calm Desk · editorial
The resumption of Guangzhou-Delhi flights by China Southern Airlines is a welcome development, but we shouldn't forget that India's aviation sector has been long plagued by inadequate regulatory frameworks and bureaucratic hurdles. The sudden influx of new international flights could put pressure on existing airport infrastructure, particularly in major hubs like Delhi and Mumbai. Unless the government acts to upgrade facilities and streamline operations, this expansion risks exacerbating travel woes for Indian passengers rather than providing a seamless experience.
- ANAlex N. · habit coach
The resumption of direct flights between Guangzhou and Delhi is more than just a practical convenience - it's a test of whether India-China relations have truly thawed since the Galwan standoff. China's increased air connectivity to India may be a strategic ploy to strengthen Xi Jinping's diplomatic hand ahead of the Brics summit, but what about long-term implications for Indian businesses? Will this newfound air link spur trade growth and cultural exchange, or will it merely paper over deeper issues in their complex relationship?
- DMDr. Maya O. · behavioral researcher
The resumption of direct flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi may be seen as a positive development in India-China relations, but we should not overlook the strategic implications. As China Southern Airlines reenters this market, it's likely to tip the balance in favor of Chinese carriers, which could further entrench their dominance over Indian skies. Meanwhile, the Brics summit provides an opportunity for both countries to address issues like trade imbalances and intellectual property disputes that have long plagued their partnership. Will this newfound air travel connectivity be enough to alleviate these longstanding tensions?