07 Jun 2022 | 09:04 AM UTC
China: Military drills to take place in the Yellow Sea near Qingdao, Shandong Province, through June 12
China is holding military drills in the Yellow Sea through June 12. Regional flight and maritime disruptions possible. Confirm transport.
Event
The Chinese military will hold drills in the Yellow Sea off the southern coast of Qingdao, Shandong Province, through 08:00 June 12. Authorities have established the following exclusion areas to facilitate the exercises:
Zone 1: Around 121 km (75 miles) southeast of Qingdao, extending about 184 km (114 miles) southeastward.
Zone 2: Approximately 150 m (93 miles) off the southeast of Qingdao and extends about 50 km (31 miles) southwestward.
The Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) has banned civilian vessels from entering the area for the duration of the exercises. It is unclear if the MSA notification applies to civilian aircraft.
The drills and associated exclusion zone may prompt regional flight and maritime shipping disruptions. The exercises may restrict shipping traffic in waterways near port facilities in Dalian. Flight delays could occur at airports serving Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport (TAO) and Rizhao Shanzihe Airport (RIZ), and potentially offshore helicopter services.
Advice
Confirm flights through June 12 if traveling through TAO and RIZ as a precaution. Plan for potential shipping congestion and delays. If possible, consider alternative transport for time-sensitive cargo.
