Fri, Jan 03, 2014

Chinese Cook Rescued By Japanese Coast Guard After Balloon Went Down

Had Attempted To Fly To Disputed Island In South China Sea

A Chinese cook who attempted to fly a hot air balloon to disputed islands in the South China Sea went down in the water as he approached the islands, known by the Japanese as Kenkaku but called Diahou in China.

The balloonist was picked up by the Japanese Coast Guard and returned to Chinese authorities, according to a report from the Associated Press. He was in the water about 12 miles from the islands, according to the report.

The pilot, identified as 35-year-old Xu Shuaijun, reportedly encountered turbulence as he neared the islands. Taiwanese officials notified the Coast Guard of a missing person, and a helicopter was dispatched on an SAR mission. He was retrieved from the water by a boat and taken back to China.

The islands are disputed territory, with both China and Japan claiming them as their own. The dispute has caused strained relations between the two nations.

Xu's motivation for the flight was not revealed.

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Chinese Cook Rescued By Japanese Coast Guard After Balloon Went Down

Had Attempted To Fly To Disputed Island In South China Sea

FMI: www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/e/index_e.htm

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