Introduction
In 2024, Taoyuan International Airport is set to surpass its previous transit passenger record, with over 3.1 million people passing through the airport in the first 11 months of the year. According to the latest data from the Taoyuan International Airport Corporation, this surge in traffic marks significant growth and a continued recovery post-pandemic.
Breaking the Record
Taoyuan’s transit passenger numbers have seen a remarkable increase, coming within 2 percent of last year’s total, and running about 20 percent higher than in 2019—the airport’s peak year for traffic. This growth is reflective of Taiwan’s strategic focus on increasing transit passenger services, particularly between Southeast Asia and North America, and supporting the recovery of the aviation sector.
Airport Performance vs. International Tourism
While international tourism to Taiwan has been slow to recover—down 36 percent from 2019 levels in the first 10 months of 2024—Taoyuan airport’s transit services have cushioned the impact. The growth in transit passengers, who are counted twice in official passenger statistics, has played a significant role in the recovery of passenger volume at the airport. It is expected that passenger volume at Taoyuan will reach levels close to 2017 figures by the end of 2024, with a full recovery expected within the next year.
Key Statistics of 2024
- Total Transit Passengers (Jan-Nov 2024): 3.1 million
- Total Passenger Arrivals (Jan-Nov 2024): 3.05 million
- Total Passenger Departures (Jan-Nov 2024): 3.06 million
- Separate Passenger Category: 150,000 passengers
- Percentage of Transit Passengers in Total Traffic: 15% (up from 11% in 2019)
The Role of Taiwanese Airlines
The increase in transit passengers is attributed to successful marketing strategies by Taiwanese airlines, particularly their efforts to cater to the growing demand for transit services between Southeast Asia and North America. This focus on connectivity has not only enhanced the airport’s role as a regional transit hub but also helped mitigate the overall slow recovery in foreign visits to Taiwan.
Challenges and Outlook for 2024 and Beyond
Despite the impressive transit growth, challenges remain. The tourism industry continues to grapple with fluctuating international visitor numbers, particularly from non-Asian markets. However, Taoyuan Airport is poised to further expand its services, and more infrastructure development is expected to support these goals.
FAQs
- How much did transit passenger traffic grow at Taoyuan International Airport in 2024?
- As of November 2024, transit passenger traffic was up by about 20% compared to 2019, reaching 3.1 million people.
- What percentage of total passenger traffic at Taoyuan is made up of transit passengers?
- In 2024, transit passengers accounted for 15% of total traffic at Taoyuan International Airport, up from 11% in 2019.
- What are the main reasons for the rise in transit passenger numbers?
- The growth is largely driven by Taiwanese airlines’ focus on facilitating connections between Southeast Asia and North America.
- Will Taoyuan Airport surpass the 2019 traffic record?
- The airport is expected to reach near 2017 traffic levels by the end of 2024 and could surpass the 2019 record in the coming years.
