After U.S. military aircraft flies at low altitude “clearly outside of regulation” Okinawa Governor’s chief of staff lodges protest over phone

After U.S. military aircraft flies at low altitude “clearly outside of regulation” Okinawa Governor’s chief of staff lodges protest over phone

Large aircraft flying low near Tokashiki Island – January 6, around 2:00 p.m.


February 4, 2021 Ryukyu Shimpo

 

After U.S. military aircraft were spotted flying at low altitude near the Kerama islands, Okinawa gubernatorial chief of staff Masaru Kinjo lodged a protest to 353d Special Operations Group Commander Colonel Michael A. Thomas on February 3. According to Okinawa, the military stressed the legality of the flights, claiming “we confirmed that we were adhering to the standards related to flight agreed between the United States and Japan, and that we were well within the limits for flight over Japanese airspace.” Kinjo indicated however,” [The aircraft] were clearly below the altitude specific in Japanese law,” asking that they reinvestigate.

Kinjo also claimed, “It is extremely regrettable that are residents were caused anxiety,” and demanded that 1) training not be conducted outside of the provided facilities and designated areas, 2) that the U.S. military adhere to the minimum flight altitude restriction according to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and under Japanese law, as agreed to by the Japan-U.S. Joint Committee, and to not conduct low-altitude flights that would cause Okinawans anxiety, and 3) provide detailed information about the altitude of the current flight in question.

According to Okinawa Prefecture, Col. Thomas said that regarding the protest and demands, “I would like to notify U.S. Forces Japan command.”

Due to the coronavirus restrictions, a face-to-face meeting was not possible, so the protest was made over the phone. A letter of protest was also mailed.

(English translation by T&CT and Sam Grieb)

 

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