Taiwan: Officials canceling dozens of flights at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport in Taoyuan Aug. 4 amid military drills /update 1

Event

Authorities have canceled at least 40 flights at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) in Taoyuan as of Aug. 4 amid the ongoing military exercises around Taiwan. The Chinese military is holding the exercises, which include live firing drills, in the sea and air through 12:00 Aug. 7. The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has banned civilian aircraft and vessels from entering the areas for the exercises' duration. Additional flight cancellations and delays are likely in the coming days.

The drills and associated exclusion zones may prompt regional maritime shipping delays. The exercises could restrict shipping traffic in waterways to ports in Taiwan. Flight disruptions cannot be ruled out at airports in Taiwan and, potentially, offshore helicopter services.

Context

China's planned naval and air exercises surrounding Taiwan appear to be military posturing in response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island Aug. 2-3. Beijing had previously warned of serious consequences if Pelosi's trip took place, raising concerns of direct military confrontation. The drills would be the most serious show of force by China since 1995 when Beijing fired missiles into waters off Taiwan and rehearsed amphibious assaults on the island. Taiwan's defence ministry has stated that the planned drills violate United Nations rules, encroach on the island's territorial waters, and amount to a blockade of the island's air and sea space. The exercises could temporarily block access to some commercial shipping lanes and ports in Taiwan.

Advice

Plan for potential shipping congestion and delays. If possible, consider alternative transport for time-sensitive cargo. Confirm flights Aug. 4-7 if traveling through airports in Taiwan as a precaution.