Deploying the PLAAF and PLAN east of Taiwan without having boots on the ground to make sure there aren't still operational SAMs, radars, AsHM batteries, etc still operational is IMO extreme folly. The PLA would be risking capital assets like warships, submarines, and heavy jet fighters to save on losses among more quickly replaceable mechanized and heli-mobile units.
Losing a couple of amphibious mechanized brigades is well worth protecting the rear of your destroyer flotillas and fighter wings. Naturally this means heavy conventional operations in urban and jungle areas which some people (incorrectly) claim the PLA won't have to do.
