Boosting Indo-China ties through tourism seems to be the new topic government officials are talking about. Expected no sooner than in a months time, Jet airways will start flying Boeings 777 between Mumbai and Shanghai. A much awaited move, the flight is expected to give further impetus to trade between the two countries. Currently, only one airline – Air India runs that route direct, however it takes an awfully long 12 hours with stops in New Delhi and Bangkok. While a lot has been said on the lack of flights, people in both countries seem optimistic of late.
For those that are curious to know whats stalling the flight, its the fifth freedom rights in the air bilateral services agreement. — During Dr Manmohan Singh’s recent visit to Beijing, both countries decided to restrict the right of one carrier of each country to fly to three regions beyond the two countries. Currently Jet has asked for permission to fly Mumbai – Shanghai -San Francisco – one region beyond the two countries, however in a meeting scheduled for next month, China wants to reach an agreement on the three specific regions carriers can fly to from each other’s territories before giving the final green signal.
The deal might also sour India China relations to some extent as India was prompt in allowing Chinese cargo carrier – Great Wall airlines to fly to Mumbai and Chennai despite security concerns raised by the National Security Council Secretariat and other agencies. This gesture was expected to be reciprocated by Beijing allowing Jet to ply the Mumbai – Shanghai route smoothly.