Chinese Cook Who Crashed Hot-Air Balloon While Trying To Reach Disputed Islands Rescued By Japanese Coast Guard

Handed to Chinese patrol ship

TOKYO (AP) — A Chinese cook who crashed into the sea while trying to fly on a hot-air balloon to islands claimed by both China and Japan has been rescued by Japan's coast guard.

Xu Shuaijun, 35, crashed Wednesday after hitting turbulence as he approached the islands, known in Japan as Senkaku and Diayou in China, the coast guard said Thursday.