New Delhi: India is exploring an alternative air route through Chinese airspace as Pakistan continues to restrict Indian aircraft from using its airspace, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Indian authorities are reportedly in talks with their Chinese counterparts over the possibility of routing some flights through the Xinjiang region. The proposed route could pass through the Hotan area and may provide Indian airlines with another option for international operations that would otherwise be affected by Pakistan's airspace restrictions.
India, China Discuss Alternative Flight Corridor
According to sources, discussions over the possible use of the Chinese route have been underway for more than a year. The Ministry of External Affairs is understood to be engaging with Chinese officials as part of the discussions. However, no final decision has been announced so far. Any such arrangement would require agreement between the two countries on aviation, security, air traffic management and other operational requirements. The potential route is being considered against the backdrop of continued restrictions on Indian aircraft in Pakistani airspace.
Why an Alternative Route Matters
Pakistan's decision to keep its airspace closed to Indian aircraft has forced airlines to consider longer routes for several international services. When aircraft cannot use the most direct air corridor, airlines may have to fly around the restricted area. Longer routes can increase flying time and fuel consumption, potentially adding to operational costs and affecting flight schedules. A route through Chinese airspace could therefore provide another option for airlines operating services between India and destinations where Pakistan's airspace would normally offer a more direct path. The exact benefits, however, would depend on the route approved by Chinese authorities and the operational conditions attached to its use.
India-China Air Connectivity Gradually Returns
The discussions come at a time when direct air connectivity between India and China is gradually being restored. China Southern Airlines recently resumed direct flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi after a gap of several years. The development marks another step toward rebuilding commercial air links between the two countries. Air connectivity between India and China had been severely disrupted during the Covid-19 pandemic. Services remained limited for an extended period amid broader diplomatic and security tensions between New Delhi and Beijing. The gradual restoration of flights indicates that passenger and commercial links between the two countries are again expanding.
Indian Airlines Also Resume China Services
Indian carriers have also been working to restore direct connectivity with China. IndiGo resumed direct flights between India and China in 2025, initially reconnecting Kolkata with Guangzhou before adding services between Delhi and Guangzhou. Air India later restarted direct flights between Delhi and Shanghai, bringing back another important connection between the two countries. The restoration of these routes is significant for business travellers, students, tourists and other passengers who depend on direct air links between the two countries.
Pakistan Airspace Restrictions Continue
Pakistan has maintained restrictions on Indian aircraft since April 2025, following heightened tensions between the two countries. The restrictions have been extended several times, keeping the issue of alternative international flight paths relevant for Indian airlines. For carriers, the availability of additional routes can help provide greater flexibility when planning international operations. However, airlines must also consider factors such as flying distance, fuel requirements, airport infrastructure, air traffic permissions and geopolitical conditions before adopting a new route.
Hotan Route Still Under Discussion
The proposed use of the Hotan region does not mean that Indian airlines will immediately begin operating regular services through the route. The discussions are still part of an ongoing process, and several technical and regulatory issues would need to be resolved before any commercial flight could use the proposed corridor. The route would also require coordination between aviation authorities and air traffic control agencies in both countries. For now, the focus remains on determining whether the Chinese airspace option can provide a practical alternative for Indian carriers affected by the restrictions imposed by Pakistan.
A Potential New Option for Indian Aviation
If an agreement is eventually reached, access to a route through Xinjiang could give Indian airlines an additional option for selected international operations. The development also comes as India and China work toward restoring broader air connectivity after years of disruption. For Indian aviation, the priority remains finding efficient and reliable international routes while managing the operational impact of restrictions in neighbouring airspace. The outcome of the India-China discussions could therefore become an important factor in future route planning. At present, however, the Hotan route remains under discussion, and there is no confirmed timeline for its operational use by Indian airlines.
