Military

Drone Forces Temporary Shutdown of Taiwan Air Base

Published
Updated

By TaiwanPlus

Taichung’s Ching Chuan Kang Air Base temporarily closed its airspace Tuesday night after a drone entered its no-fly zone. Eight military aircraft conducting night training were diverted, while two civilian flights at Taichung International Airport were also affected. 

Drone Disrupts Air Base Operations

REPORTER:  
A military airfield in central Taiwan was closed temporarily after an unauthorized drone entered its no-fly zone.

REPORTER:  
Taichung's Ching Chuan Kang Air Base shut down for 25 minutes until the drone left the area. Eight military planes on training missions were diverted and two civilian flights at Taichung International Airport were affected. The case has been handed to police for investigation. Operating an unauthorized drone in the no-fly zone is punishable by fines up to $47,000 US dollars.

REPORTER:  
The airbase, located in Taichung, suspended all takeoffs and landings for 25 minutes due to the drone sighting. Two civilian flights were delayed or rerouted, while eight military aircraft had to land elsewhere during nighttime training.

REPORTER:  
Police have opened an investigation. Authorities warn that drones operating in restricted flight zones face significant penalties including fines and possible confiscation of the aircraft.