China: Military drills to continue in the northern South China Sea through June 2

Event

The Chinese military is holding drills in the northern South China Sea, off the eastern coast of Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, through 18:00 June 2. The zone is approximately 30 km (19 miles) east of Zhanjiang. The Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) has banned civilian vessels from entering the area for the exercises' duration. It is unclear if the MSA notification applies to civilian aircraft.

The drills and associated exclusion zone may prompt minor regional maritime shipping delays. The exercises may restrict shipping traffic in waterways to Chinese ports in Zhanjiang. Flight delays cannot be ruled out at airports in the region, especially Zhanjiang Airport (ZHA), and potentially, offshore helicopter services.

Advice

Plan for potential shipping congestion and delays. If possible, consider alternative transport for time-sensitive cargo. Confirm flights through June 2 if traveling through ZHA as a precaution.