China Eastern Airlines will launch a direct Mumbai–Shanghai service from May 2026, marking a major expansion of its India operations. The carrier will operate four weekly flights using Airbus A330 aircraft, while also planning to restart Kolkata–Kunming services, strengthening air connectivity between India and China amid rising travel demand.
China Eastern Airlines has announced a significant expansion of its India network, unveiling plans to start direct flights between Mumbai and Shanghai from May 2026. The service will operate four times a week with Airbus A330 aircraft, offering travelers enhanced connectivity between India’s financial capital and China’s commercial hub.
The airline is also preparing to relaunch flights between Kolkata and Kunming, further diversifying its India–China routes. This expansion comes at a time of growing demand for cross-border travel, trade, and tourism, reinforcing China Eastern’s strategic focus on South Asia.
Key Highlights
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New Route: Mumbai–Shanghai direct flights starting May 2026.
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Frequency: Four weekly services operated with Airbus A330 aircraft.
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Additional Expansion: Plans to restart Kolkata–Kunming flights in summer 2026.
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Strategic Importance: Strengthens India–China connectivity for business, tourism, and cultural exchange.
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Market Context: Follows recent resumption of Delhi–Shanghai flights, signaling a broader revival of bilateral aviation links.
This move positions China Eastern Airlines as a key player in bridging India and China’s aviation markets, catering to both corporate travelers and leisure passengers.
Sources: The Hindu BusinessLine, TravelBiz Monitor, Free Press Journal