Kaohsiung International Airport

Overview

Ping Dong Xian Yao Kong Wu Ren Ji Fei Xing Chang, often translated as Pingtung County Unmanned Aircraft Airstrip, is a specialised aviation facility located in Pingtung County, Taiwan. As its name suggests, this airstrip is primarily designed for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) – commonly known as drones – rather than conventional passenger aircraft. It serves as a hub for drone testing, research, and operations, supporting both civilian and government applications such as agricultural monitoring, environmental surveys, and disaster response.

This is not a commercial passenger airport. Travellers looking to fly into Pingtung should instead use Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH), about 30 kilometres north, or Taitung Airport (TTT) to the east. The airstrip is a key piece of infrastructure for Taiwan's growing drone industry, reflecting Pingtung County's role in fostering technological innovation alongside its traditional agricultural economy.

Location & Access

The airstrip is situated in Pingtung County, which occupies the southernmost part of Taiwan's main island. It lies within the Pingtung Plain, a fertile region bordered by the Central Mountain Range to the east and the Taiwan Strait to the west. The exact coordinates are not broadly published, but it is accessible via local roads off County Highway 185 or Provincial Highway 1.

By car, the airstrip is roughly a 40-minute drive from Pingtung City, the county capital, and about an hour from downtown Kaohsiung. Visitors can reach Pingtung City by train (Pingtung Station on the Taiwan Railways Administration line) or bus, then take a taxi or rental car to the airstrip. Public transport in the immediate vicinity is very limited, so private vehicle hire is strongly recommended.

The nearest major city is Kaohsiung, which offers international flights and high-speed rail connections. From Kaohsiung, take the TRA (Taiwan Railways) to Pingtung Station, then continue by road. The drive from Kaohsiung International Airport is approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Facilities

The airstrip provides two confirmed wheelchair-accessible amenities:

• Wheelchair-accessible car park – Designated parking spaces close to the entrance, with level access for passengers with reduced mobility.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance – A ramped or level entry point ensuring barrier-free access to the facility.

Beyond these, the airstrip is a functional, utilitarian site focused on drone operations. There is no passenger terminal, check-in counters, shops, or restaurants. Travellers should bring their own water and snacks if planning an extended visit. Basic shelter or a small office may be present, but amenities are minimal. The stripped-down nature is typical of specialised airstrips that prioritise operational needs over passenger comfort.

About the Region

Pingtung County is Taiwan's southernmost county, known for its tropical climate, agricultural bounty, and stunning natural attractions. The area produces fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and pineapples, and is famous for its night markets and street food.

Major nearby destinations include:

• Kenting National Park – Taiwan's oldest national park, featuring white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and lush coastal forests. It is about a 90-minute drive south from the airstrip.
• Eluanbi Lighthouse – The southernmost point of Taiwan, with historic lighthouse and scenic coastal trails.
• Pingtung City – The county capital, known for the Pingtung Art Museum, the historic Pingtung Railway Park, and local culinary specialties.
• Taiwu Mountain – A culturally significant area for the Paiwan indigenous group, offering hiking and traditional villages.
• Donggang – A coastal town famous for its seafood, particularly bluefin tuna, and the annual King Boat Festival.

The region's geography – flat plains backed by mountains – makes it ideal for drone operations, particularly in agriculture (crop monitoring) and meteorology. The airstrip plays a role in supporting these activities, as well as emergency services and scientific research.

Practical Information

• Address: Ping Dong Xian Yao Kong Wu Ren Ji Fei Xing Chang, Pingtung County, Taiwan (specific road address not widely listed; use coordinates or contact the county government for precise directions).
• Website: https://www.pthg.gov.tw/traffic/Default.aspx – This is the Pingtung County Government's traffic and transportation department page, which manages the airstrip.
• Phone: +886 8 734 6881 (Pingtung County Government traffic office).
• Hours: The airstrip is not open daily. Based on available data, peak usage hours are 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, but this likely reflects scheduled drone flights rather than public access. Visitors should contact the management well in advance to confirm opening times and permission to enter. The site is not a general-use airport, so unauthorised access may be restricted.
• Parking: Wheelchair-accessible parking is available. General parking is likely limited to a small lot.
• Important Note: This is an active drone operations site. Do not enter without prior approval. Safety regulations for unmanned aircraft areas may be in effect.

For general travel information about Pingtung County, including accommodation and attractions, refer to the Pingtung County Government tourism website. Taiwan's Tourism Bureau also provides useful guides for the region.