IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers Confirms Airline's Readiness to Resume Flights to China

IndiGo's CEO Pieter Elbers has stated the airline is prepared to resume direct flights between India and China as negotiations advance. Prior to the pandemic, IndiGo operated daily flights between the two nations.

IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers expressed readiness to restart direct flights between India and China. This comes amid ongoing negotiations between the two nations to resume air services soon. IndiGo had previously operated daily flights connecting India and China before the pandemic halted these routes.

Elbers highlighted that IndiGo is prepared to resume these flights once bilateral agreements are finalised. He emphasised the airline's commitment to exploring commercially viable opportunities, driven by its entrepreneurial spirit. Prior to the pandemic, IndiGo flew daily from Delhi to Chengdu until February 6, 2020, and from Kolkata to Guangzhou until February 1, 2020.

Resumption of Direct Flights

Direct flights between India and China were operational until early 2020. However, they were suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak. Both Indian and Chinese airlines had been offering these services before the suspension. The eastern Ladakh border dispute also contributed to the continued suspension of flights.

Air India had also been operating flights from Delhi to Shanghai, which were similarly halted in early 2020. On January 27 this year, both countries agreed in principle to restart direct air services. This agreement is part of efforts to stabilise and rebuild bilateral relations through people-centric initiatives.

The resumption of direct flights is seen as a significant step towards enhancing connectivity between India and China. It reflects a mutual interest in rebuilding ties and facilitating travel between the two countries. As negotiations progress, both nations aim to finalise arrangements that will allow airlines to operate these routes once again.

IndiGo's readiness to resume operations underscores its strategic focus on expanding international connectivity. The airline's proactive approach aligns with broader efforts to restore normalcy in international travel post-pandemic. As discussions continue, stakeholders remain optimistic about reaching a favourable outcome soon.

With inputs from PTI