According to sources, India is negotiating with China to establish an alternative route for Indian airlines through the airspace of Xinjiang. These negotiations, which have been ongoing for about a year, are actively overseen by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Currently, the Indian government is seeking backup air routes due to restrictions in Pakistani airspace. These limitations force Indian operators to choose longer routes for international flights to Europe and America, leading to increased operational costs for India.
The situation is exacerbated by rising aviation fuel (ATF) prices due to conflicts in the Middle East, which also negatively affects airline expenses. An alternative route through Chinese airspace could provide some relief to Indian airlines affected by the restrictions in Pakistani airspace.
Sources indicate that India is studying the possibility of using a potential air route over Hotan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is involved in these discussions, negotiating with its Chinese counterparts.