Airlines Warned as Chinese Navy Holds Live-Fire Exercises Off Australia
Airlines were forced to divert flights across the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand due to a live-fire exercise conducted by China's People's Liberation Army Navy in international waters, with air traffic control agencies issuing warnings to commercial planes about reports of gunfire. The exercise, which took place outside of Australia's exclusive economic zone, raised concerns among airlines about safety and prompted them to modify flight paths as a precautionary measure. The Chinese navy complied with international law by providing notice of the exercise, but the short notice given caused disruptions to commercial aircraft operations.
- This incident highlights the need for greater transparency and cooperation between nations when it comes to military exercises in international waters, where the rules of engagement can be complex and often unclear.
- What measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, and how will they balance national security concerns with the need to protect commercial air travel?