India and China are moving closer to restoring direct flights after a gap of nearly five years. The suspension, which began in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions, may soon end as both governments engage in high-level talks. 

China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that discussions are underway and that a formal announcement could be made during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit later this month. Meanwhile, the Indian government has instructed airlines such as Air India and IndiGo to prepare for resuming services, including potential routes to Beijing. The resumption of flights is expected to boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people ties, marking a significant step in normalizing bilateral relations.