In a big development, Air India has announced its non-stop flights between Delhi and Shanghai (PVG) early next year. Apart from this, Air India will also introduce non-stop flights between Mumbai and Shanghai in 2026. Know here when the company will resume flights..
What Air India said
According to Air India, the resumption of its non-stop flights between Delhi and Shanghai (PVG), effective from February 1, 2026. This will mark Air India’s return to mainland China after nearly six years, when India closed the service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
After the requisite regulatory approvals, Air India also intends to introduce non-stop flights between Mumbai and Shanghai in 2026. Shanghai is the 48th international destination to be served by Air India group, which continues to carry more passengers internationally than any other airline in India.
About Air India services from India to China
Air India will operate four times a week between Delhi and Shanghai using its twin-aisle Boeing 787-8 aircraft, featuring 18 flat beds in Business Class and 238 spacious seats in Economy Class, as per the statement.
Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, said, “The resumption of our Delhi-Shanghai services is more than a route launch. It is a bridge between two great, ancient civilisations and modern economic powerhouses. At Air India, we are happy to reconnect one of the world’s most vital air corridors, enabling travellers to pursue opportunities in business, trade, healthcare, education and culture with the comfort and warm Indian hospitality that define Air India,” as quoted by the statement.
Why did India decide to resume flights to China?
The reinstatement of Air India’s services to Shanghai follows recent India-China diplomatic agreements that restored the air links paused in early 2020. Air India first launched non-stop services to mainland China in October 2000. The restored air link is expected to further boost exchanges in pharmaceuticals, technology, education, and several other spheres.
Bookings for Air India’s flights between Delhi and Shanghai are being progressively opened on all channels, including Air India’s website, mobile app, airport ticketing offices, contact centres, and through travel agents worldwide, the statement added. (ANI)
