Etihad Airways refers to Taiwan as 'China Taiwan' in in-flight announcement; Ministry of Foreign Affairs protests
It has come to light that Etihad Airways, based in the United Arab Emirates, referred to Taiwan as "China Taiwan" during an in-flight announcement. In response to this incident, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged a strong protest with the airline on the 21st.
According to the Civil Aeronautics Administration of Taiwan's Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the issue was brought to light following reports from passengers. How international airlines refer to Taiwan often carries political significance, and the Taiwanese government has consistently taken a firm stance on similar cases in the past.
Following the protest, Etihad Airways provided a written response. The airline expressed its apologies for any discomfort caused to passengers by the terminology used.
This incident has once again highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding the designation of Taiwan in the international community. The Taiwanese government intends to continue monitoring how the country is referred to in international forums with vigilance.