Amid escalating tensions between China and Taiwan, Singapore’s national carrier says it is erring on the side of caution by canceling flights to Taiwan.
Singapore Airlines today said two flights (SQ878 and SQ879), scheduled to fly today to and from Taiwan, have been canceled over fears for passengers’ safety after the Chinese military conducted live-fire exercises near Taiwan.
“The safety of our customers and staff is our top priority. SIA will continue to monitor the situation closely and make any adjustments, as necessary,” SIA told reporters, citing “evolving airspace restrictions”.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore on Thursday said that Singapore’s carriers will avoid flying through the affected airspace after China launched missiles around Taiwan yesterday in response to a visit by United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Wednesday. China quickly condemned the visit as a challenge to their claims of sovereignty over Taiwan.
Pelosi is the highest-ranking US politician to visit Taiwan in 25 years. She is currently in Japan as part of her Asian diplomatic tour.
At least 50 international flights from Taiwan’s Taoyuan International Airport have also been canceled.
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