[tanknetter]

A CVN would NOT be running flight ops while transiting this narrow channel.

True. The paucity of aircraft on the deck could be indicative of having planes temporarily based ashore to provide the required top-cover.

[DJ Elliott]

Actually, we do. Top cover during transit is normal.
Plus it has become normal to det a couple squadrons to Afghan.
That is why they are transiting.
They are due to be relieved and they need to go pick up the detached elements and do turnover...