Taiwan has been placed on high alert after detecting a sharp escalation in Chinese military activity across its surrounding airspace and waters, prompting authorities to restrict flight routes and divert air traffic to ensure aviation safety.
Official data showed that 89 Chinese military aircraft, along with 28 warships and coastguard vessels, were operating near the island on Monday, marking the highest single-day aircraft presence since mid-October last year. The heightened activity has raised concerns over regional stability and civilian safety.
Aviation authorities announced that airspace and several flight routes would face severe restrictions on Tuesday due to the ongoing drills. The measures are expected to cause major disruptions to civil aviation, affecting more than 100,000 international passengers and around 6,000 domestic air travellers.
To minimise risks, international flights will be diverted away from designated danger zones or rerouted along alternative paths. Officials said the steps are necessary to maintain air traffic safety amid the intensified military exercises.
Meanwhile, China has launched live-fire drills around Taiwan, stating that the exercises are aimed at simulating a blockade of the island&rsquo;s key ports. Beijing also issued a warning against what it described as &ldquo;external forces&rdquo; supporting Taiwan.
The latest show of military strength follows a recent round of arms sales to Taipei by the United States, Taiwan&rsquo;s primary security partner. Chinese officials warned that efforts by external actors to use Taiwan to contain China would increase tensions in the Taiwan Strait and push the region toward a dangerous situation.
China reiterated that attempts to obstruct what it calls reunification would not succeed, as tensions across the strait continue to escalate amid the ongoing drills.

Helicopters on an amphibious assault ship take part in military drills

Flights diverted, airspace restricted amid record Chinese military activity

Taiwan on alert as China ramps up drills

Flights diverted, airspace restricted amid record Chinese military activity

December 29, 2025 | 20:16 IST