China Eastern Airlines has announced the resumption of direct flight services between Shanghai and Delhi, marking a significant step toward reviving air connectivity and fostering people-to-people exchanges and trade relations between India and China. The operations are set to begin on November 9, with three weekly flights scheduled every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
According to a statement issued by the airline, the Airbus A330-200 aircraft, known for its long-range capacity and passenger comfort, will be deployed for the route. The resumption of this service signifies the full restoration of China Eastern Airlines’ network in India, which had been suspended amid pandemic-related disruptions.
As per the airline’s schedule, Flight MU564 will depart from Delhi at 7:55 p.m., arriving in Shanghai at 4:10 a.m. the following day. In the reverse direction, Flight MU563 will take off from Shanghai Pudong International Airport at 12:50 p.m., landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi at 5:45 p.m. local time. Tickets for the route have already been made available for booking.
The Shanghai–Delhi route is among the most strategically important air corridors connecting the two Asian nations, linking their leading economic, business, and cultural hubs. Its reopening is expected to enhance bilateral movement of professionals, tourists, and business delegations, as well as facilitate smoother logistics for trade and investment activities.
InterGlobe Air Transport (IGAT) continues to serve as the exclusive General Sales Agent (GSA) for China Eastern Airlines in India, a partnership that began in 2002, when the airline became the first Chinese carrier to operate direct flights between the two countries. IGAT manages sales, marketing, ticketing, and operational support for the airline and will continue to leverage its strong local presence to ensure the success of the relaunched service, the statement said.
The renewed connectivity comes amid a broader effort by both nations to expand civil aviation links after years of limited travel caused by the pandemic. Earlier this month, Indian budget carrier IndiGo announced daily direct flights between New Delhi and Guangzhou starting November 10, following its recent decision to commence daily Kolkata–Guangzhou flights from October 26.
The announcements follow the Ministry of External Affairs’ confirmation that India and China had agreed to restart direct flights between selected cities, marking a gradual normalization of air transport ties between the two countries.
With the addition of China Eastern’s Shanghai–Delhi route and IndiGo’s Guangzhou services, travelers and businesses can expect improved connectivity and greater flexibility for cross-border movement, signaling renewed momentum in India–China engagement across sectors including trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
