India Explores China Airspace Route Over Xinjiang Amid Pakistan Airspace Restrictions
India is exploring alternative international flight routes, including the possibility of using Chinese airspace over Xinjiang, as it looks to reduce dependence on existing routes affected by regional restrictions, according to a report by NDTV Profit. The Indian government is in discussions with China regarding access to Xinjiang airspace, while also examining a possible route through Bhutan. The…
India is investigating the utilization of Chinese airspace over Xinjiang as a potential substitute for congested international flight routes, as reported by NDTV Profit. The Indian government is engaged in conversations with China regarding access to Xinjiang airspace, in addition to exploring the feasibility of a route through Bhutan.
The Ministry of External Affairs is actively participating in these dialogues with Chinese authorities. India-China talks on alternate air corridor Reports indicate that discussions with China have been ongoing for over a year, with a primary focus on evaluating the practicality of employing Xinjiang airspace as an alternate aviation corridor.
Indian carriers, Air India, have announced plans to resume flights from Delhi to China in February 2026, with further expansion to Mumbai-Shanghai flights anticipated later. This development comes in response to Pakistan's ongoing restrictions on Indian aircraft since April 2025, following heightened tensions sparked by the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and a subsequent military clash.
With Pakistan's airspace currently inaccessible, airlines have been compelled to adopt longer routes, thereby escalating operational challenges and costs. To mitigate these issues, India has been contemplating alternative options to bolster connectivity and lessen travel interruptions. Restoration of India-China air connectivity The ongoing discussions coincide with the gradual recovery of India-China aviation links.
In anticipation of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, China Southern Airlines has announced the reinstatement of direct flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi, commencing on September 21, following a six-year hiatus. The airline attributes this move to efforts aimed at reestablishing direct air connections between India and China, which were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border-related tensions.
Several airlines have reintroduced services between the two nations in 2026. Air India recommenced flights between New Delhi and China in February, while Air China reestablished its Beijing-New Delhi service in April. China Eastern has also resumed flights between Kunming and Kolkata, while IndiGo has expanded its operations by introducing daily flights between Kolkata and Shanghai and resurrecting services linking Guangzhou and Delhi.
India's pursuit of alternative routes underscores the significance of sustaining stable air connectivity amidst shifting regional dynamics.
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