Kaohsiung Pushes for 24-Hour International Airport to Spur Southern Taiwan's Growth

Kaohsiung is making a bold bid to establish a 24-hour international airport, a move Mayor Chen Chi-mai argues is crucial for regional balance, industrial transformation in the south, and the burgeoning demand for air cargo. Citing the saturation and congestion at Taiwan's sole international gateway, Taoyuan International Airport, Chen emphasized the necessity of a new southern hub to mitigate risks and stimulate development across the southern region. This initiative positions Kaohsiung as a vital node within the critical semiconductor 'S-corridor' and seeks to overcome decades of development limitations in the Qianzhen and Xiaogang districts.

The city government is committed to securing central government support for this ambitious project. Once approved, Kaohsiung plans to spearhead comprehensive surrounding infrastructure development, including upgrading major arterial roads and transforming urban functions to align with the airport's presence. The project is intrinsically linked to the future development of the Qianzhen and Xiaogang areas, spanning several decades. The city is urging the central government to expedite its evaluation process, recognizing the airport's potential to unlock significant economic and urban growth.

In parallel, Kaohsiung is actively undertaking immediate improvements around Xiaogang Airport, enhancing access routes, parking facilities, and the overall aesthetic. These efforts include road network upgrades and greening projects, such as improvements around Kaohsiung Park. The city has also secured funding for a more open, 'penetrating' style airport fence, allowing the public to enjoy views of aircraft. These visible enhancements signal the city's determination and readiness to embrace a future centered around a revitalized international airport, aiming to transform the local real estate market and overall urban landscape.