China Eastern Airlines Expands Shanghai–Delhi Flights to Five Weekly from January 2026, Strengthening India–China Air Connectivity and Tourism Growth

Responding to the surge in travel demand between India and China, China Eastern Airlines is expanding its Shanghai–Delhi route to five weekly flights starting January 2026. This move aims to strengthen air connectivity and promote tourism and business exchanges between two of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. The increased frequency reflects the airline’s commitment to supporting rising passenger traffic, trade cooperation, and cross-cultural mobility that continues to grow post-pandemic.
China Eastern Airlines Expands Shanghai–Delhi Flights to Strengthen India–China Travel and Trade Links
China Eastern Airlines is set to enhance connectivity between India and China by expanding its direct flight operations between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, beginning 2 January 2026. The airline will increase the frequency from three to five weekly flights, a move that reflects the growing travel demand and the renewed economic cooperation between the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Air Connectivity
This expansion signifies China Eastern Airlines’ strategic commitment to deepening travel and trade links between two of Asia’s most influential economies. The growing interest among Indian tourists, students, and business travellers in China has prompted the airline to widen its operational footprint in the Indian market. Likewise, increased inbound travel from China to India highlights the potential of cultural exchange and tourism recovery post-pandemic.
For over two decades, InterGlobe Air Transport has served as the airline’s exclusive General Sales Agent (GSA) in India. Managing all commercial operations, sales, and marketing activities, InterGlobe continues to play a pivotal role in promoting China Eastern’s presence in India. The company’s established distribution network and local expertise will help the airline meet rising customer expectations and ensure seamless travel experiences for passengers.
Updated Flight Schedule
The revised schedule offers greater flexibility for travellers. Flight MU564 will depart from New Delhi at 19:55, reaching Shanghai at 04:10 the following morning, while the return service MU563 will leave Shanghai at 12:50 PM, arriving in Delhi at 17:45 local time. These flights will now operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
The route will be serviced by the Airbus A330-200 wide-body aircraft, equipped with 17 lie-flat MINPRO business-class seats and 245 economy-class seats, ensuring passengers experience a blend of comfort, efficiency, and modern amenities.
Enhancing Tourism and Trade Opportunities
The Shanghai–Delhi route serves as a vital link between Shanghai, China’s financial and technological hub, and New Delhi, India’s political and cultural centre. The increased frequency will not only improve accessibility for tourists but also strengthen cooperation in sectors such as education, technology, trade, and investment. Both countries are expected to benefit from the boost in business travel, student exchanges, and tourism partnerships.
China Eastern’s move comes at a time when Asia’s aviation sector is witnessing a robust recovery. Expanding connectivity supports broader regional goals to enhance trade and mobility, contributing to the revival of tourism and economic activities across the continent. For India, this provides travellers easier access to East Asia’s growing business hubs, while Chinese visitors gain more opportunities to explore India’s historic landmarks and modern attractions.
A Step Toward Broader Expansion in India
Beyond Delhi, China Eastern Airlines has indicated interest in exploring additional Indian routes, including potential services between Kunming and Kolkata and Shanghai Pudong and Mumbai. Such expansions would diversify travel options and encourage stronger cross-border exchange between the two countries.
Moreover, the airline is scheduled to resume its Shanghai–Delhi service on 9 November 2025, marking its return to this critical route after a five-year suspension caused by the pandemic. This resumption underscores the airline’s resilience and readiness to reconnect major Asian destinations under its post-pandemic recovery plan.
Connecting Asia to the World
With Shanghai Pudong International Airport serving as one of China Eastern’s primary international hubs, passengers travelling via this route will have access to seamless onward connections across mainland China, North America, Japan, South Korea, and Europe. This convenience enhances Shanghai’s role as a global transit point and strengthens China Eastern’s position as a bridge between Asia and the rest of the world.
China Eastern Airlines will expand its Shanghai–Delhi route to five weekly flights starting January 2026, enhancing travel links between India and China. The move comes in response to growing tourism and business demand, signalling a renewed phase of regional cooperation. This expansion is expected to strengthen bilateral air connectivity and encourage greater cultural and economic exchange across both nations.
A Renewed Bridge Between Nations
The expanded flight schedule is more than an operational upgrade—it symbolises a renewed partnership between two rapidly developing nations. By restoring and expanding air links, China Eastern Airlines is helping to rebuild tourism, business collaboration, and cultural understanding between India and China. The initiative marks a significant stride toward fostering stronger bilateral relations and supporting the long-term vision of sustainable growth in Asia’s aviation and tourism landscape.
The post China Eastern Airlines Expands Shanghai–Delhi Flights to Five Weekly from January 2026, Strengthening India–China Air Connectivity and Tourism Growth appeared first on Travel And Tour World.