Taiwan Launches Major Airport Upgrades for Island Tourism Boost

Enhancing Infrastructure and Celebrating Local Culture in Green Island and Orchid Island

Taipei, Taiwan – May 20 – Construction has commenced on significant renovation and expansion projects at Green Island and Orchid Island airports, marking a pivotal step in Taiwan's commitment to enhancing its offshore tourism infrastructure. This initiative, part of a NT$1.2 billion (US$39.75 million) investment, aims to upgrade four key airports, as announced by the Civil Aviation Administration (CAA).

A groundbreaking ceremony on Green Island was overseen by Lin Kuo-shian (林國顯), the administrative deputy minister of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the supervisory body of the CAA.

The project encompasses Green Island Airport and Orchid Island Airport in Taitung County, along with Qimei Airport and Wangan Airport in Penghu County.

"Orchid Island and Green Island are renowned tourist destinations, celebrated for their rich ecological assets and unique local culture," Lin was quoted as saying in a CAA press release. "However, inadequate transportation facilities have long posed challenges, impacting both residents' daily commutes and the growth of tourism."

He further noted that the newly developed terminals will offer a more comfortable and efficient travel experience, featuring distinct exterior and interior designs that pay homage to the islands' unique cultural identities.

According to the CAA, the Green Island Airport enhancements include a new C-shaped covered walkway, renovations to terminal facilities, and comprehensive landscaping improvements. Plans for Orchid Island involve the expansion and enhancement of the existing terminal.

The Orchid Island terminal will be thematically designed to reflect the Yami (Tao) Indigenous culture, while Green Island's design will draw inspiration from the Kuroshio Current and local marine life, as stated by the CAA.

Lin emphasized that the revitalized airports will serve as "gateways that represent the local areas," with the anticipated outcome of attracting a larger influx of visitors.

Notable attendees at the ceremony included Taitung County Deputy Magistrate Wang Chih-hui (王志輝), and officials from various MOTC agencies such as Chou Yung-hui (周永暉) of the Tourism Administration, Ho Shu-ping (何淑萍) of the Civil Aviation Administration, and Yeh Hsieh-lung (葉協隆) of the Maritime and Port Bureau.

The completion of the Green Island and Orchid Island airport renovations is projected for July 2027, following delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as indicated by the MOTC.

The CAA also indicated that the airport projects in Qimei Township and Wangan Township are expected to be put out to tender by the close of this year.