In a significant move for international travel and diplomatic relations, Air India has officially resumed its non-stop flight services between Delhi and Shanghai. The first flight took off on February 1, 2026, ending a nearly six-year suspension of direct air links between the Indian capital and China’s largest financial hub.
The resumption marks a major milestone in the normalization of travel between the two most populous nations in the world. For years, travelers between India and China had to rely on long layovers in third-country hubs like Dubai, Singapore, or Hong Kong. Now, the return of the “Maharaja” to mainland China promises to simplify journeys for thousands of business professionals, students, and tourists.
The Journey Back to the Clouds
The story of this route’s suspension began in early 2020. Like much of the world’s aviation network, the Delhi-Shanghai corridor was shuttered due to the global pandemic. However, while many international routes resumed within a year or two, this specific link remained dormant for much longer due to a combination of strict health protocols and evolving diplomatic tensions.
The breakthrough finally came following high-level diplomatic discussions throughout late 2025. These talks led to a mutual agreement to restore direct aviation connectivity, recognizing that air travel is the backbone of economic and cultural exchange. By the time the inaugural Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner taxied down the runway at Indira Gandhi International Airport this week, the enthusiasm from the passenger community was palpable.
About the Resumed Flight Service
Air India is starting this service with a carefully planned schedule to meet the high demand while ensuring operational stability.
- Frequency: The airline will operate four flights per week on the Delhi-Shanghai-Delhi route.
- Aircraft: The service uses the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, a modern aircraft known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
- Capacity: Each flight offers 256 seats—18 lie-flat beds in Business Class for those needing to arrive fresh for meetings, and 238 spacious seats in Economy Class.
- Schedule: Flights are currently scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, providing flexibility for both short business trips and longer stays.
During the inaugural ceremony at Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport, Indian Consulate officials and airline representatives greeted the first batch of passengers with traditional Indian hospitality. Consul General Pratik Mathur noted that the flight is a “tangible expression of the renewed momentum” in engagement between the two countries.
Significance of the Route’s Return
The return of direct flights is about more than just convenience; it is a catalyst for several key sectors:
- Business and Trade: Shanghai is a global center for finance, shipping, and innovation. For Indian entrepreneurs and the pharmaceutical sector, which relies heavily on raw materials from the Yangtze River Delta, this direct link reduces logistics costs and travel fatigue.
- Education: Thousands of Indian students enrolled in Chinese universities, particularly in medical and technical fields, have faced grueling travel schedules over the last few years. This flight provides a direct, affordable lifeline back to their campuses.
- Tourism and Culture: Both nations boast ancient civilizations and world-class heritage sites. Restoring air links is the first step toward reviving the tourism industry, which saw record-low numbers during the hiatus.
Strengthening Ties: In the world of diplomacy, direct “people-to-people” contact is often seen as the best way to build trust. Regular flights encourage academic exchanges, cultural festivals, and institutional partnerships.
Looking Ahead: Mumbai and Beyond
Air India’s return to Shanghai is just the beginning of a broader expansion strategy. The airline has already indicated that, subject to further regulatory approvals, it plans to launch non-stop flights between Mumbai and Shanghai later in 2026. This would provide the western part of India with direct access to East China, further thickening the network of connectivity.
Furthermore, this move comes at a time when Air India is undergoing a massive transformation under the ownership of the Tata Group. The airline is currently modernizing its entire fleet and upgrading its cabin interiors to compete with the world’s leading carriers. The Delhi-Shanghai route is the 48th international destination for the Air India group, cementing its position as India’s primary global connector.
A Step Toward Renewed Connectivity
In simple terms, Air India’s decision to relaunch the Shanghai–Delhi flight restores a missing link between two major Asian cities. After years of relying on indirect routes, travelers once again have a direct option that saves time and reduces complexity. While the long-term impact will unfold gradually, the return of this service highlights the steady rebuilding of global air travel and the importance of maintaining open, reliable connections between countries.
As international aviation continues its recovery, such route resumptions serve as reminders that air travel remains a key enabler of economic activity, cultural exchange, and everyday human connection.
Disclaimer :
This blog is based on publicly available information and reports at the time of writing. Flight schedules, frequencies, and operational details may change depending on regulatory approvals, airline policies, and market conditions. Readers are advised to check official airline or airport sources for the most up-to-date travel information. The content is intended solely for informational purposes and does not constitute travel, commercial, or policy advice.