Connectivity between India and China is seen being bolstered by yet another direct link to the communist nation. Reports say that state-owned Indian will provide another direct air link between the two countries.

According to a report quoting official sources, Indian has short- listed Guangzhou to start regular operations between the two nations with the Airbus A-330 aircraft that are being taken on wet lease. Besides, the carrier is also looking at operating flights to Melbourne too with the A-330 aircraft. Both the aircraft are scheduled to arrive in India later this year. A wet lease involves leasing the aircraft with the cockpit crew, the report added.

It is believed that Indian will start flights to Guangzhou first. Melbourne will come next. It depends on the arrival of the A-330s. Indian might operate services four times a week and the frequency will be increased to a daily service when it gets more aircraft. It may be noted here that the state-run carrier had been looking at operating the Airbus aircraft on routes to South Africa or destinations in Europe before finalising on Guangzhou and Melbourne.

But why Guangzhou, is the obvious question being asked. According to industry experts, the decision to operate to Guangzhou was taken as it is close to Hong Kong, a popular destination among Indian visitors.

The fact that Air India is the only Indian carrier to operate flights between India and China, has also given the plan a leg up. Meanwhile, Jet Airways plans to fly the Shanghai-Los Angeles route while Air Sahara is to launch a flight to Guangzhou.