India and China are preparing to restart direct passenger flights after a five-year gap. The move, expected to be announced around the late-August SCO Summit, aims to revive trade, tourism, and economic engagement. Air links were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and tensions after the 2020 Galwan clash.

BulletsIn

• Flights halted since early 2020 pandemic and Galwan clash
• Over 8.16 lakh passengers travelled in FY19, 7.7 lakh in FY20
• Cargo flow pre-ban: 30,000 tonnes between India and China
• Before suspension, 539 direct flights monthly by both sides
• Suspension forced detours via Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore
• Travel costs, time rose for passengers and businesses
• Diesel exports to China resumed after 4 years
• China approved urea exports to India recently
• PM Modi to visit China for SCO Summit late August
• Air India, IndiGo told to prepare for immediate restart