Air India's Boeing 787-8 Returns to Shanghai-Delhi After Six Years: What's the Schedule?

Air India has officially resumed its non-stop service between New Delhi (DEL) and Shanghai (PVG), ending a nearly six-year hiatus. The inaugural flight departed on Sunday, February 1, 2026, marking the airline’s return to mainland China. This move is a significant step in restoring air connectivity between the two major economic hubs.

Operational Revival and Aircraft Details

The airline will operate the Air India Shanghai Delhi flights four times per week. The route utilizes the modern Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft. This twin-aisle jet is known for its fuel efficiency and enhanced passenger amenities. The aircraft features 18 flat-bed seats in Business Class and 238 seats in Economy Class, designed for long-haul comfort.

• AI352 (Delhi to Shanghai): Departs DEL at 12:00 hrs, arrives PVG at 20:20 hrs.
• AI351 (Shanghai to Delhi): Departs PVG at 22:00 hrs, arrives DEL at 03:15 hrs the following day.
• Days of Operation: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Context of the Six-Year Hiatus

The direct Delhi-Shanghai service was initially suspended in early 2020. The suspension was due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The route remained paused longer than many others due to geopolitical tensions and border standoffs between India and China. The resumption follows recent diplomatic agreements aimed at normalizing bilateral ties.

Consul General of India in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, highlighted the importance of the restored link. He stated it is a "tangible expression of the renewed momentum in India-China engagement". The restored India-China air connectivity is expected to support commercial, educational, and cultural exchanges.

Competitive Landscape and Market Impact

Air India's return intensifies competition on the crucial India-China corridor. Other carriers have already begun to re-establish services. Chinese carrier China Eastern Airlines resumed its Shanghai-Delhi flights in November 2025. Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo also restarted flights. IndiGo now operates routes like Kolkata-Guangzhou and Delhi-Guangzhou.

The pre-pandemic demand for the Delhi-Shanghai route was substantial. It handled close to 149,000 travelers annually. The high occupancy on the inaugural Air India flight, carrying over 230 passengers, suggests pent-up demand. The Air India route resumption is vital for business travelers and students. It offers a direct alternative to connecting through third-country hubs like Hong Kong or Bangkok.

Key Takeaways for Aviation Stakeholders

• The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner provides a modern, comfortable long-haul option for passengers.
• The restored service is a direct result of improving India-China diplomatic relations.
• Increased competition from Air India, China Eastern, and IndiGo will likely benefit consumers with more options.
• The route supports the Yangtze River Delta region, a major Chinese economic cluster.

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