As Taipei’s chief international airport, Taiwan Taoyuan welcomes more than 38 million passengers a year. As far as international passenger numbers go, this makes it the 11th busiest airport on the planet. The hub has been operating since 1979 and is a major gateway for destinations across Asia. For travellers with long layovers, the nearby Chung Cheng Aviation Museum showcases a fleet of retired Republic of China Air Force fighters.
The airport currently has two terminals, with the driverless TTIA Skytrain ferrying passengers between the two. Thanks to an impressive three storey business travel centre, Taiwan Taoyuan is a favourite with corporate jet-setters. Exclusive facilities available to members include a spa, sauna, and gymnasium.
At 40 kilometres west of Taipei city, Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is a 40-minute drive from the city centre. Frequent public buses also link the airport to the city centre, as well as neighbouring districts and cities.
Until September 2006 the airport was formerly known as Chiang Kai-shek International Airport, a name that referred to the late President Chiang Kai-shek. Following a political vote by President Chen Shui-bian's administration, the name was changed to a Taiwan Taoyuan. The goal was to avoid mentioning the controversial Chinese Nationalist Party leader and give Taiwan a more progressive reputation.