IndiGo Launches Second Direct Flight Between India and Mainland China
IndiGo has taken a significant step in enhancing air connectivity between India and China. On November 11, 2025, the airline inaugurated its second direct flight route, flight 6E 1701, connecting Delhi with Guangzhou. This event highlights IndiGo’s commitment to strengthening travel and fostering economic ties between the two nations.
New Flight Route Details
The new route comes just weeks after the resumption of the Kolkata-Guangzhou service on October 26, marking IndiGo as the first Indian airline to restore direct flights to China following a five-year break. This initiative is expected to enhance cultural and economic exchanges between the vast populations of India and China.
Strategic Importance
Guangzhou serves as a major business and manufacturing hub in South China. IndiGo’s flight connects this crucial aviation center directly with Delhi, the capital of India. Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, emphasized the importance of expanding direct air connectivity as nearly one-third of the world’s population resides in these two countries.
Preparations for Launch
Elbers shared insights on the preparations undertaken for the Kolkata-Guangzhou route. Following the announcement of resumed flights by both governments on October 9, IndiGo swiftly initiated actions for market preparation, flight operations, and regulatory approvals. The airline required about two to three months to set everything in place for the launch.
Demand and Market Dynamics
The Kolkata-Guangzhou service has witnessed substantial demand, with nearly full bookings on each flight. Passengers often resorted to alternative routes through Hong Kong or the Middle East to connect between India and the Chinese mainland. The robust demand reflects the strong economic relationship, as evidenced by the bilateral trade figures from 2024, which reached $138.478 billion, reflecting a 1.7 percent year-on-year increase.
Future Opportunities and Competition
- China Eastern Airlines is planning to expand its operations, resuming its Kunming-Kolkata route and introducing a new Shanghai Pudong-Mumbai flight.
- Elbers noted the ample opportunities in the market, given that India and China harbor the second and fourth largest economies globally.
- IndiGo is evaluating potential operations from more Indian cities to additional destinations in China, beyond just major cities like Beijing and Shanghai.
Elbers remains optimistic about the airline’s growth potential in the Chinese market. He sees opportunities in cities such as Chengdu, Kunming, Xiamen, and Hangzhou, reflecting IndiGo’s ambition to explore and expand its international footprint.
