SYDNEY- An Emirates (EK) flight from Sydney (SYD) to Christchurch (CHC) received a direct warning from the Chinese military to avoid airspace due to live-fire exercises. Meanwhile, Qantas (QF) and Air New Zealand (NZ) have diverted flights in response to the situation.
The Chinese Navy is conducting drills in international waters southeast of Sydney, leading to formal advisories from Australian air traffic controllers. Authorities continue to monitor developments closely.Emirates (EK) flight EA3HJ was issued a warning at approximately 11 AM Sydney time, as reported by ABC. The Chinese Navy was conducting military exercises 340 nautical miles southeast of Sydney in international waters.
Advertisement
freestar
Qantas has adjusted flight routes over the Tasman Sea for both its main airline and Jetstar (JQ). The airline is coordinating with the Australian government and the aviation sector to assess the situation. Air New Zealand has also modified flight paths to ensure safety.
freestar
Australian authorities confirmed that air traffic controllers provided formal advisories to several international flights, prompting course diversions.
The Chinese naval task force was observed deploying a floating target, changing formations, and resetting in a pattern consistent with live-fire exercises.
Photo: By Bidgee, CC BY-SA 3.0 au, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=86628332
Chinese Vessels and Military Activity
The Chinese naval presence includes:
Despite reports of live-fire exercises, the Australian military has not observed direct firing on targets.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed discussions with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, as well as Australian defense and foreign affairs officials.
Government and Defense Response
Prime Minister Albanese stated that the exercises were conducted in accordance with international law and posed no immediate threat to Australian or New Zealand assets.
Senator Penny Wong noted that Australian officials are in direct communication with Chinese authorities to address transparency regarding the drills.
She emphasized that it is standard practice for such exercises to include notifications to nearby vessels and aircraft.
Australia’s Defense Department revealed that the Chinese task force had been tracked in the Coral Sea, within Australia’s exclusive economic zone.
Additionally, a previous encounter saw a Chinese fighter jet releasing flares in front of an Australian military aircraft, described by the Defense Department as an “unsafe and unprofessional” action.
The Australian government continues to monitor Chinese naval activities closely, ensuring safety for civilian and military operations.