Know before you fly: China reminds passengers of rules at military-civilian airports

China's Ministry of State Security issued a reminder on Monday regarding regulations for passengers flying in and out of airports designated for both civilian and military use. The reminder comes after two recent incidents involving unauthorized photography of sensitive military equipment and facilities.

In one incident, a passenger identified by the surname Liu disregarded in-flight instructions and filmed the airport's surroundings, buildings, and military aircraft with his phone. His intention, according to the MSS, was to share the video online.

The open window shade triggered an alert, prompting airport authorities to return the plane to its parking position. Security personnel conducted a thorough investigation to eliminate any potential leak of military secrets before allowing the flight to resume. Liu's actions resulted in a seven-day detention for delaying the flight, disrupting other passengers, and violating public transportation regulations.

A separate incident involved a foreign passenger suspected of secretly filming a civilian-military airport on a flight from Yiwu to Beijing on June 12. A fellow passenger reported the suspicious activity.

The MSS highlighted the critical role civilian-military airports play in both civil aviation and the air force's operations, including daily training and wartime activities. These airports often house sensitive military equipment and witness regular military exercises. For these reasons, the MSS emphasizes strict adherence to regulations regarding photography at these airports. Unauthorized photographs of sensitive areas and equipment are strictly prohibited.

Nearly a third of China's operational airports are designated for dual civilian and military use, according to official statistics. These airports, primarily located in coastal and border regions, hold significant strategic and military importance.

The MSS encourages the public to report any instances of unauthorized filming or distribution of sensitive information regarding military facilities at civilian-military airports or other sensitive locations. Reporting channels include the national security hotline (12339), the online reporting platform (www.12339.gov.cn), or other designated channels.