Taichung International Airport expands flights to Japan, Korea

台中國際機場增加飛往日本和韓國的航班

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taichung City Government said Tuesday that three airlines have launched new routes to Japan and South Korea, expanding the flight network at Taichung International Airport.

CNA reported that the new services include Starlux Airlines flights to Tokyo and Kumamoto, Air Busan flights to Busan, and Tigerair Taiwan flights to Okinawa. Officials said the expansion strengthens links between central Taiwan and key cities in northeast Asia.

Taichung Vice Mayor Cheng Chao-hsin (鄭照新) said the city is working with airlines and the central government to improve travel access. He said a new Taiwan Tourist Shuttle route connects the airport to key areas such as the Shuinan district, the Green Museumbrary, and metro stations in about 30 minutes, according to UDN.

The tourism bureau said more than 125 passengers arrived from Busan on the first flight and were welcomed with bubble tea gift packs. Officials said the Busan route will operate five times a week and is expected to attract more South Korean visitors to central Taiwan.

Nownews reported that Tigerair Taiwan has also launched the Taichung–Okinawa route, adding a popular short-haul option for travelers. Officials said the route is also expected to encourage more Japanese visitors to explore Taichung’s food and attractions.

The tourism bureau said airlines are expanding in central Taiwan to meet increasing travel demand. It added that additional routes are expected to extend visitor stays, support domestic tourism businesses, and strengthen Taichung’s role as a regional travel hub, per Yahoo News.