Air India has just announced a fresh start to its long‑awaited flights between New Delhi and Shanghai. The airline will launch a new non‑stop service on 1 February 2024, flying four times a week with its modern Boeing 787‑8.
The decision marks Air India’s return to mainland China after almost six years when air links were cut in 2020. According to airline officials, regulators will also get the green light for a new route from Mumbai to Shanghai by 2026—another step to reconnect India with one of China’s biggest cities.
What to expect on the flight
The 787‑8 is a twin‑aisle jet that offers 18 flat‑bed seats in Business Class and 238 comfortable seats in Economy. Passengers can enjoy typical Air India service—Indian hospitality, a relaxed ambiance and plenty of space for fatigue‑free travel.
Why this matters
Delhi‑Shanghai is now the 48th international destination served by the Air India group, which still carries more overseas passengers than any other Indian airline. Restoring the link is expected to boost business, trade, education, and even pharmaceutical exchanges between the two countries.
Air India’s chief executive, Campbell Wilson, said the route is “more than a launch – it’s a bridge between two great civilisations and modern economic powerhouses.” He added that the airline is excited to “reconnect one of the world’s most vital air corridors,” making travel easier for business, trade, healthcare and cultural visitors.
Booking details
Bookings for the new Delhi‑Shanghai flights are now open on all channels, so travellers can plan ahead for the 2024 launch. The airline also hinted at a potential Mumbai‑Shanghai launch next year, signaling growth in India‑China air connectivity.
In related news, low‑cost carrier IndiGo has started daily non‑stop flights between Delhi and Guangzhou, China. The airline’s CEO, Pieter Elbers, welcomed the expansion after the successful Kolkata‑Guangzhou launch.
With Air India reconnecting Delhi and Shanghai, and IndiGo adding more China routes, passengers now have better options to travel for business, leisure or study across the international corridor. Keep an eye on travel alerts and book early to ride the new Delhi‑Shanghai service that opens on 1 February 2024.
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