Air India announced on Monday that it is all set to restart non-stop flights between Delhi and Shanghai from 1 February 2026, marking its return to mainland China after almost six years. In addition to the Delhi-Shanghai route, the airline plans to launch a second direct flight from Mumbai to Shanghai later in 2026, once it receives the required approvals.
Air India Delhi-Shanghai Flight Schedule
As per the details shared by the airline, it will operate flights between Delhi and Shanghai four times a week on every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.
The flight AI352 from Delhi will leave at 12:00 pm and reach Shanghai at 8:20 pm local time. The return flight AI351 leaves Shanghai at 10:00 pm and lands back in Delhi at 3:15 am the next day.
| Flight No. | Route | Departure | Arrival | Days of Operation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AI352 | Delhi–Shanghai | 12:00 | 20:20 | Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun |
| AI351 | Shanghai–Delhi | 22:00 | 03:15 (+1) | Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Air India will deploy its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner on this route. The aircraft features 18 flat-bed seats in Business Class and 238 seats in Economy, offering a comfortable option for both business and leisure travellers.
Strengthening India-China Air Links
This route revival comes after recent diplomatic agreements between India and China that reopened air connections suspended since early 2020. Air India first began non-stop flights to China in 2000. This step is significant in restoring travel and business ties between the two countries.
IndiGo Resumes Direct Flights to China
India’s largest airline, IndiGo, has already restarted its China operations with daily non-stop flights from Kolkata to Guangzhou, which began on October 26, 2025. The carrier operates the route using its Airbus A320neo aircraft, and a Delhi–Guangzhou service is expected to launch soon.
Why It Matters
The reintroduction of direct flights is expected to improve cooperation in trade, technology, healthcare, and education. It will make travel easier for professionals, students, and tourists. Shanghai is now Air India’s 48th international destination, strengthening its position as India’s top carrier for global travel.
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