How China's 'Quasi-Blockade' Drills Crippled Taiwan Air Traffic for 10 Hours

China’s recent large-scale military exercises near Taiwan caused massive disruption. The drills, conducted on December 30, severely impacted regional air travel. Taiwan's Civil Aviation Administration (CAA) confirmed the widespread effects. The action raises new concerns over China's use of coercive strategies to pressure the island.

Unprecedented Air Traffic Disruption

The military operation lasted nearly 10 hours in total. It significantly affected commercial aviation across the entire region. The drills disrupted a total of 941 flights in and out of Taiwan. This included 857 international flights and 84 domestic routes. The disruption affected more than 100,000 passengers. Live-fire activities forced airlines to reroute or cancel operations entirely. Major carriers like China Airlines and EVA Air faced operational strain.

Airspace restrictions fell within the Taipei Flight Information Region (FIR). This is a critical hub for East Asian air routes. The disruption highlights the direct risk geopolitical tensions pose to civil aviation. The situation affects one of the world's most congested airspaces. For more insights on global aviation security, visit our commercial aviation news section.

Expert Analysis: A Simulated Blockade

Experts argue the scale and timing of the drills were deliberate. They suggest this was more than routine military training. Su Tzu-yun, a research fellow at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR), weighed in. He described the operation as a "quasi-blockade."

Su explained the maneuvers simulated wartime conditions. They were designed to test China's ability to control air and sea lanes. These lanes are critical for a potential amphibious assault on Taiwan. The exercise also aimed to exert psychological pressure. This was done by intentionally disrupting civilian travel.

• Joint Domain Control: The drills tested a strategy integrating naval, air, and electronic warfare capabilities.
• Humanitarian Corridors: Three air routes—M750, G587, and R583—were deliberately left open. This may simulate "humanitarian corridors" for foreign evacuations during a future blockade.

Violation of International Aviation Norms

China's actions drew sharp criticism from Taiwan's authorities. Analysts stressed that international civil aviation rules require earlier notification. The Civil Aviation Administration of China issued limited Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs). Some reports indicate as little as 12 to 24 hours' warning was given.

Taiwan's Ministry of Transportation stated this was a serious violation. Regulations set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) stipulate at least seven days' advance notice. By failing to meet these standards, China undermined aviation safety. This action violated established international practices.

Another INDSR researcher, Lin Po-chou, called the exercises the most severe regional aviation disruption in recent memory. He stated China's actions demonstrated a clear disregard for international norms. This highlights a growing pattern of coercive behavior in the Taiwan Strait.

Impact on Regional Air Carriers

The sudden airspace closure forced airlines to activate contingency plans. Carriers had to operate longer, non-standard flight paths. This led to increased fuel consumption and higher operational costs. The disruption affected services to major regional airports. This included Taipei Taoyuan (TPE), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), and Xiamen Gaoqi (XMN). The geopolitical tension adds a layer of complexity to flight planning. It forces airlines to account for unpredictable commercial aviation security implications.

The incident serves as a stern reminder for the global airline industry. Geopolitical instability can instantly impact flight safety and operational efficiency. The lack of proper notification is a major concern for the global aviation community. The industry relies on timely communication for safe air traffic control coordination.