Taichung International Airport / Ching Chuang Kang Air Base

Overview

Taichung International Airport (IATA: RMQ) serves as the primary gateway to central Taiwan, handling both domestic and international flights. Located in Qingshui District, it was originally established as Ching Chuan Kang Air Base before transitioning into a civilian airport. Today, it accommodates a mix of scheduled and charter services to destinations across East and Southeast Asia, including Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea. The airport also operates domestic flights to outlying islands such as Kinmen and Penghu. As the third-busiest airport in Taiwan after Taoyuan and Kaohsiung, it plays a vital role for travellers visiting Taichung City, the surrounding Taichung metropolitan area, and popular tourist spots like Sun Moon Lake and the central mountain range.

Location & Access

Taichung International Airport lies approximately 15 kilometres northwest of downtown Taichung City, in the coastal Qingshui District. It sits just off Provincial Highway 10, providing a direct connection to the city centre and other parts of the region.

Getting to and from the airport:

• By car: The airport is easily reached via National Freeway 3 (the Formosa Freeway) and Provincial Highway 10. Two paid parking options are available: a multi-storey car park and an outdoor parking lot, both accessible to wheelchair users.
• By bus: Several city bus routes connect the airport to Taichung’s main train station and key districts. The Taichung City Bus system offers frequent services, with journey times of around 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
• By taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall. The trip to the city centre takes about 30 minutes, and fares are metered.
• By shuttle: Some hotels in Taichung offer complimentary or paid shuttle services; check with your accommodation in advance.

There is no direct rail connection to the airport, but travellers can take a bus to Taichung High Speed Rail Station (THSR) on the outskirts of the city for onward bullet train services to Taipei, Kaohsiung, and other major hubs.

Facilities

Taichung International Airport provides a range of amenities designed to make the passenger experience comfortable and accessible:

• Accessibility: The airport is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilets. Passengers with reduced mobility can request assistance from airline staff or the airport information desk.
• Baggage storage: For travellers who want to explore Taichung during a layover, baggage storage facilities are available inside the terminal. Charges apply based on duration.
• Toilets and changing tables: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are located throughout the terminal, and family-friendly changing tables are provided in accessible toilets.
• Parking: Two paid parking options are available: a multi-storey car park directly connected to the terminal, and a surface parking lot. Both are suitable for short-term and long-term stays. Rates are posted at the entrance.
• Other on-site services: The terminal houses a small selection of shops, cafes, and a duty-free area for international passengers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.

Passengers should note that the airport is not open 24 hours; it operates during daytime hours, with peak activity typically in the mid-afternoon (around 3 pm and 4 pm). Travellers arriving late at night may need to arrange accommodation outside the airport.

About the Region

Taichung City, the third-largest city in Taiwan, is the cultural and economic centre of the central region. Known for its mild climate, it offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions. The airport serves as a convenient entry point for visitors heading to:

• Taichung City Centre: Explore the National Museum of Natural Science, the Fengjia Night Market (one of Taiwan’s largest), and the historic Miyahara building. The city is also famous for its sun cakes (taiyang bing) and bubble tea.
• Sun Moon Lake: A scenic two-hour drive from the airport, this stunning alpine lake is a top tourist destination for boat rides, cycling, and temples.
• Central Taiwan’s natural attractions: The area is home to hot springs in Guguan, the Gaomei Wetlands (famous for sunsets), and hiking trails in the Daxueshan National Forest Recreation Area.
• Cultural heritage: Towns like Lugang and Lukang offer well-preserved old streets, temples, and traditional crafts.

Taichung International Airport thus plays a crucial role in connecting international travellers to these diverse experiences.

Practical Information

• Website: https://www.tca.gov.tw/cht/index.php? – The official site provides flight schedules, transport details, and facility information (in Chinese, with limited English).
• Phone: +886 4 2615 5000 – For general enquiries, lost property, or assistance.
• Opening hours: The terminal is open daily but not 24 hours. Passengers should check flight times and plan to arrive during operating hours. The busiest periods are around 3 pm and 4 pm.
• Airlines and destinations: Major carriers include China Airlines, EVA Air, Tigerair Taiwan, and local carriers. International destinations include Hong Kong, Macau, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Tokyo (Narita), Osaka, Nagoya, and Seoul. Domestic flights primarily connect to Kinmen, Penghu, and sometimes Taitung or Hualien.

For the most current flight information and any service changes, always consult the airport website or contact your airline directly.