US shuts three airports amid China balloon controversy

Arrivals and departures were paused at three airports in the states of South and North Carolina "to support the Department of Defense in a national security effort," the Federal Aviation Administration told AFP in a statement.

US aviation authorities on Saturday closed down three airports in the eastern part of the country due to a "national security effort" amid controversy over a suspected Chinese spy balloon in US skies.

Arrivals and departures were paused at three airports in the states of South and North Carolina. (AP)

Arrivals and departures were paused at three airports in the states of South and North Carolina "to support the Department of Defense in a national security effort," the Federal Aviation Administration told AFP in a statement.