China Opens New Air Routes Close to Taiwan-Controlled Islands
In a recent statement, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) announced the opening of new air routes to the Chinese cities of Xiamen and Fuzhou. These flight paths are situated in close proximity to the Taiwan-controlled islands of Kinmen and Matsu. Taipei has not yet responded to this development.
Details of the Announcement
- The CAAC revealed that the new air routes to Xiamen and Fuzhou are now operational.
- Starting from May 16, the aviation regulator plans to “further optimize” airspace around Fuzhou airport, although specific details were not provided.
- The changes to the flight paths aim to support the development needs of flights along the Chinese coast, enhance flight safety, improve response capabilities to thunderstorms, and enhance normal flight operations.
Previous Tensions and Reactions
In January, Taiwan expressed displeasure after China unilaterally altered a flight path near the sensitive median line in the Taiwan Strait known as M503. This move was seen as a violation of the unofficial demarcation between Chinese-claimed Taiwan and China.
Despite previous opposition from Taipei, China has maintained its stance of not recognizing the existence of the median line and continues to conduct flights over it. Taiwan had previously raised concerns about the M503 route in 2018, citing a lack of prior communication from China as agreed upon in a 2015 deal.
Current Status and Response
While China announced the opening of routes from west to east on the flight paths from Xiamen and Fuzhou in January, Taiwan has not yet reacted to the latest announcement. Flights to the islands of Kinmen and Matsu from Taiwan are regular, and Chinese aircraft are restricted from flying in the airspace controlled by Taipei around these islands.
