Qimei Airport

Overview

Qimei Airport (also spelled Cimei Airport) is a small domestic airport on Qimei Island, part of Taiwan’s Penghu archipelago. It primarily serves residents of the island and tourists seeking to explore one of the more remote and unspoiled corners of the Penghu National Scenic Area. Flights connect Qimei with major Taiwanese cities such as Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung, providing a quick direct link that bypasses the longer ferry journey. The airport is operated by the Civil Aeronautics Administration and sees a limited number of daily flights, primarily on small turboprop aircraft. Its compact terminal handles a modest flow of passengers, with peak traffic typically occurring around mid-morning – specifically 10 am and 11 am – when multiple arrivals and departures are scheduled.

Location & Access

Qimei Airport is situated on the northeastern coast of Qimei Island, roughly 30 km south of Penghu’s main island. The island itself covers an area of about 6.7 km² and is known for its rugged basalt coastlines, white-sand beaches, and tranquil fishing villages. Getting to the airport is straightforward: taxis and local minibuses provide transfers from the island’s main settlement, Nanhu Village, and from Qimei Harbour, where ferries from Magong (Penghu’s capital) dock. The drive from the harbour to the airport takes less than ten minutes. For travellers coming from Taiwan’s main island, flying is the most convenient option, with flights from Kaohsiung International Airport lasting roughly 30 minutes. There are also direct flights from Taipei Songshan Airport and Taichung Airport, though these may be less frequent. Once on Qimei, scooters and bicycles are popular ways to explore, and several rental shops operate near the airport and harbour.

Facilities

As a small regional airport, Qimei Airport offers essential amenities focused on accessibility and comfort. The terminal is wheelchair accessible, with a designated car park, an accessible entrance, and wheelchair-accessible toilets. Standard toilet facilities are available, and there is a changing table, making the airport family-friendly for those travelling with infants. The terminal building is compact, so services such as dining and retail are very limited – passengers are advised to bring their own snacks and entertainment for any waiting time. There is no dedicated lounge, but seating is provided in the departure area. Given the morning peak hours, the airside area can become busy; arriving early is recommended to allow time for check-in and security screening.

About the Region

Qimei Island is one of the southernmost inhabited islands in the Penghu chain, famous for its pristine landscapes and cultural landmarks. The island’s star attraction is the Twin-Heart Stone Weir, a fish trap built from coral stones in the shape of two interlocking hearts – a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset. The surrounding waters are clear and rich in marine life, making snorkelling and diving popular activities. The island’s coastline features dramatic columnar basalt cliffs and secluded beaches like Dashan Bay. Traditional stone houses and fish-drying racks give the villages an authentic, unhurried feel. The region is also known for its seafood, particularly dried fish, squid, and the local specialty “penghu oysters.” Tourism on Qimei is low-key, with small guesthouses and homestays providing accommodation. The best time to visit is during the dry season from April to October, though the northeast monsoon from October to March can bring strong winds and occasional flight cancellations. Beyond the island itself, the greater Penghu archipelago offers countless other islands, historic temples, and the annual Penghu Fireworks Festival.

Practical Information

The airport’s official website (https://www.mkport.gov.tw/qimei/main/index.aspx) provides up-to-date flight schedules and terminal information. For direct inquiries, the airport can be reached by phone at +886 6 997 1256. Qimei Airport is not open every day of the week; operating hours are determined by scheduled flight times, which can vary seasonally and are subject to change. Passengers should verify the airport’s opening hours and their flight’s status in advance, especially during the windy months. The terminal typically opens one hour before the first departure and closes shortly after the last arrival. Check-in counters open approximately 45 minutes before departure, and due to the small size of the aircraft, luggage restrictions may be stricter than on larger domestic routes. There are no on-site currency exchange or ATM facilities, so visitors should bring sufficient cash for their stay. Despite its modest scale, Qimei Airport serves as a crucial lifeline for island residents and a convenient gateway for travellers seeking one of Taiwan’s most serene coastal destinations.