Taiwan Pilot Defects to China With Jumbo Cargo Jet
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TAIPEI, Taiwan — One of Taiwan’s most trusted commercial pilots defected to China, officials conceded today, but they expressed hope Peking would return the $6-million jumbo jet without compromising Taiwan’s “no-contact” policy toward China.
Wang Ki-jue, 57, diverted the cargo plane Saturday to China while en route from Bangkok, Thailand, to Taipei.
Wang’s wife of 30 years as well as government officials were shocked at the defection. Wang formerly flew U-2 spy planes over the Chinese mainland for the United States before Washington switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Peking.
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