China Eastern Airlines has resumed its direct Kolkata–Kunming service from April 19, 2026, reinforcing aviation links between India and China. The move follows the relaunch of its Delhi–Shanghai route last year and aligns with the airline’s strategy to expand connectivity between the two countries.
The service will operate six times weekly, offering both Business and Economy Class cabins. The resumption was marked with an inaugural ceremony at Kolkata Airport, attended by Liu Yonghong, General Manager – India, China Eastern Airlines; JB Singh, Director, InterGlobe Air Transport; along with representatives from the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Kolkata and senior officials from the Airports Authority of India and immigration authorities.
Flights from Kolkata (MU556) depart at 01:10 and arrive in Kunming at 06:20, operating six days a week, while the return service (MU555) departs Kunming at 23:55 and arrives in Kolkata shortly after midnight the next day.
The airline’s India operations continue to be supported by InterGlobe Air Transport, its exclusive General Sales Agent in the country for over two decades, handling commercial and operational functions including sales, marketing and ticketing.
The Kolkata–Kunming route is expected to boost trade, tourism and cultural exchange between India and China. It also enables onward connectivity to major Chinese cities such as Shanghai, Beijing Daxing, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Shenzhen and Xi’an via Kunming.
Looking ahead, China Eastern Airlines is planning further expansion in India, including the proposed launch of Mumbai–Shanghai services, as it continues to enhance connectivity options for Indian travellers.
