A close encounter between Chinese aircraft and a Philippine plane over Scarborough Shoal has raised concerns about safety risks to pilots and passengers. According to reports, a Chinese helicopter flew within 3 metres of the government aircraft patrolling the shoal, violating international laws and China’s sovereignty.
The incident occurred when the Philippine coastguard reported that the Chinese navy conducted reckless air manoeuvres, posing a serious risk to the safety of those on board. The Chinese military blamed the Philippines for “illegally invading” China’s airspace above the disputed shoal, known as Huangyan Island in China and Panatag Shoal or Bajo De Masinloc in the Philippines.
The tension between the two nations has been ongoing over the Scarborough Shoal, a strategic location in the South China Sea. The incident highlights the importance of diplomacy and cooperation to resolve territorial disputes peacefully.
Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3299197/chinese-aircraft-and-philippine-plane-close-encounter-over-scarborough-shoal