Taipei Songshan Airport

Taipei Songshan Airport: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Taipei Songshan Airport (IATA: TSA, ICAO: RCSS) is a vital hub for both domestic and regional international travel, located in the Songshan District of Taipei, Taiwan. Established in 1936, this city airport serves as a secondary airport to the larger Taoyuan International Airport, providing convenient access to the capital city and its surrounding areas. Covering an area of 182 hectares (450 acres), Songshan Airport is not only a commercial airport but also a military airbase, housing certain units of the Republic of China Air Force. This article will explore various aspects of Taipei Songshan Airport, including airlines, destinations, passenger statistics, transportation options, terminal layout, services, and travel tips.

Airlines and Destinations

Taipei Songshan Airport primarily serves domestic flights within Taiwan and select international routes. The airport is home to several airlines, including:

• China Airlines
• EVA Air
• Mandarin Airlines
• UNI Air
• TransAsia Airways (now defunct)
• Xiamen Airlines
• Japan Airlines
• Korean Air

The airport connects to approximately 15 destinations across three countries, including major cities such as:

• Seoul, South Korea
• Tokyo, Japan
• Shanghai, China
• Hong Kong

While Songshan Airport handles a smaller volume of international flights compared to Taoyuan International Airport, it remains a popular choice for travelers seeking quick access to domestic and nearby international destinations.

Number of Passengers and Flights

In recent years, Taipei Songshan Airport has seen a steady flow of passengers. In 2019, the airport recorded approximately 6.2 million passengers and around 58,056 aircraft movements. This figure represents a significant portion of the air traffic in Taipei, although it pales in comparison to Taoyuan International Airport, which handled over 48 million passengers in the same year. The airport's capacity is designed to accommodate around 6 million passengers annually, making it an essential part of Taipei's transportation infrastructure.

How to Get Here

Getting to Taipei Songshan Airport is convenient due to its proximity to downtown Taipei, located just about 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) away. Various transportation options are available:

• Metro: The Taipei Metro's Wenhu Line connects directly to the airport, with a journey time of approximately 2 minutes from the nearest station.
• Buses: Several bus routes serve the airport, including the 1819A and 1960 lines, which connect to Taipei Main Station and Taipei City Hall, respectively.
• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available, and rideshare services like Uber can also be used for direct transfers to and from the airport.

Parking

Taipei Songshan Airport offers parking facilities that cater to both short-term and long-term needs. The airport has five parking lots with a total capacity of 872 vehicles, open 24/7. Short-term parking is free for the first 30 minutes, making it convenient for quick drop-offs or pick-ups. The parking rates during peak hours (08:00 - 21:00) are NT$40 (approximately USD $1.30) per hour.

Transportation Price

Transportation costs from Taipei Songshan Airport to various destinations in the city are quite affordable. For instance:

• Metro fare: NT$20 to NT$55 (approximately USD $0.70 to $1.80) depending on the destination.
• Bus fare: NT$135 (approximately USD $4.30) for the 1819A bus to Taipei Main Station.
• Taxi fare: A taxi ride to downtown Taipei typically costs around NT$150 (approximately USD $5).

These prices make it easy for travelers to navigate the city without breaking the bank.

Terminal Layout

Taipei Songshan Airport features two terminals, both housed within a single building, allowing for easy navigation between them. Terminal 1 primarily handles international flights, while Terminal 2 is dedicated to domestic routes. The terminals are designed for efficiency, with clear signage and a layout that allows passengers to walk from one end to the other in about five minutes.

Navigate the Airport

Navigating Taipei Songshan Airport is straightforward due to its compact size and well-organized layout. Upon arrival, passengers can find information desks located in both terminals, where staff can assist with inquiries. The airport also provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals, allowing travelers to stay connected while waiting for their flights.

Getting Between Terminals

Since both terminals are connected within the same building, transferring between them is quick and easy. Passengers can walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 in just a few minutes, making it convenient for those with connecting flights.

Services and Amenities

Taipei Songshan Airport offers a range of services and amenities to enhance the travel experience. These include:

• Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the airport.
• Luggage storage: Both manned and automated lockers are available for travelers needing to store their bags temporarily.
• Observation deck: Located in Terminal 1, offering views of the airport's runways.
• Baby care facilities: Available for families traveling with young children.
• Duty-free shopping: A variety of shops are available for travelers to purchase souvenirs and gifts.

Restaurants and Shops

The airport features a selection of dining options and shops to cater to travelers' needs. There are 11 eateries, including local Taiwanese cuisine, fast food chains, and cafes. Notable dining options include:

• Starbucks
• Mos Burger
• Subway
• Homee Kitchen

In addition to dining, passengers can explore various shops, including duty-free stores and convenience outlets like 7-Eleven, which operates 24 hours.

Security and Customs

Security at Taipei Songshan Airport is stringent, with all passengers required to undergo screening before boarding their flights. Travelers should arrive at the airport well in advance of their flight to allow time for security checks. Customs procedures are straightforward, with clear guidelines available for travelers regarding prohibited items and duty-free allowances.

Accessibility

Taipei Songshan Airport is committed to providing accessible services for travelers with disabilities. While the airport is generally wheelchair-friendly, it is advisable to request assistance in advance for specific needs, such as wheelchair-accessible taxis or shuttles. The airport's layout allows for easy navigation, and facilities are designed to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges.

Travel Tips

• Arrive Early: Given the airport's popularity and the potential for security delays, it is advisable to arrive at least two hours before your flight.
• Check Transportation Options: Familiarize yourself with the various transportation options available to and from the airport to ensure a smooth journey.
• Stay Connected: Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi to stay updated on flight information and communicate with family or friends.
• Explore Local Cuisine: Dont miss the opportunity to try local Taiwanese dishes at the airport's eateries before heading into the city.
• Use the Observation Deck: If time allows, visit the observation deck for a unique view of the airport's operations and aircraft movements.

In conclusion, Taipei Songshan Airport serves as a crucial gateway for travelers in and out of Taipei, offering a blend of convenience, accessibility, and essential services. Whether you're flying domestically or heading to nearby international destinations, Songshan Airport provides a user-friendly experience that caters to the needs of all passengers.