โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
35
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
95
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) is the premier aviation gateway to southern Taiwan, currently in the midst of a massive multi-billion TWD redevelopment project known as Kaohsiung Airport 2040. As of early 2026, the facility maintains a functional split between its International Terminal and Domestic Terminal, which are connected by a pedestrian walkway. This modernization effort is transitioning the airport toward a unified 'centralized terminal' model, with active construction of the New East Terminal underway between the two existing buildings to eventually merge all traffic under one state-of-the-art roof.
The terminal layout is organized vertically to optimize passenger flow and high-tech processing. The International Terminal features three levels: the ground floor (1F) for arrivals and customs, the second floor (2F) for transit lounges, and the third floor (3F) for departures, housing over 30 check-in counters and modernized SITA passenger processing systems including CUSS self-service kiosks. The Domestic Terminal primarily operates from its ground level, serving regional routes to Penghu, Kinmen, and Hualien. A highlight of the facility is the 3F observation deck on the east side of the international building, offering panoramic views of the runway and various aviation-themed displays.
Amenities at KHH reflect Kaohsiung's status as a modern industrial and cultural hub. Travelers can enjoy a wide array of dining options, from international chains like Starbucks to local Taiwanese eateries serving regional specialties. The 3F departure zone features extensive duty-free shopping by Everich and Tsa Meng, alongside specialized boutiques offering high-quality Taiwanese tea and handicrafts. The airport provides free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout both buildings, dedicated mobile charging stations, and multiple well-appointed prayer rooms. The facility is fully accessible, featuring integrated elevators and specialized assistance for passengers with limited mobility.
Ground transportation at KHH is exceptionally well-integrated with the city's transit network. The Kaohsiung MRT Red Line (Station R4) provides a direct and efficient link to the city center, with Exit 6 serving the International Terminal and Exit 2 serving the Domestic Terminal. Taxis and airport buses are readily available 24/7 outside the arrivals halls of both buildings, providing reliable links to downtown hotels and the Port of Kaohsiung. For those driving, the airport features multiple outdoor and multi-story parking lots. Travelers are generally advised to arrive at least two hours before international flights and 60 minutes before domestic departures to account for the ongoing construction and thorough security procedures.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) is a straightforward process, though it requires moving between the two distinct terminal buildings. For most travelers, a 'connection' here involves transitioning from an international flight from hubs like Hong Kong (HKG) or Tokyo (NRT) to a domestic link to the Penghu or Kinmen islands. Since the terminals are connected by a sheltered pedestrian corridor, moving between legs of your journey can be completed in approximately 10 to 15 minutes. However, it is advisable to allow at least 120 minutes for any onward connection to account for baggage retrieval and the potential for secondary security checks. Ground transportation is the most critical link for any traveler transiting through Kaohsiung who wishes to explore the city during a long layover. The MRT Red Line is the most reliable option for reaching the central business district or the iconic Love River area, with trains departing every 4 to 8 minutes. If your onward journey involves a connection to the High Speed Rail (HSR) at Zuoying Station, ensure you have a minimum buffer of 60 minutes to account for the 25-minute MRT ride and the transfer within the station. Digital information displays throughout both terminals provide real-time updates on flight statuses and MRT schedules in both Mandarin and English. Practical preparation for a KHH connection includes utilizing the airport's modern digital infrastructure. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected and confirm onward hotel or ferry bookings. While there are numerous ATMs and currency exchange offices in the arrivals lobby, most terminal shops and cafes accept contactless card payments and local digital wallets like Line Pay.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
110
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Hengchun Airport (HCN) is a decommissioned domestic aviation facility located in Hengchun Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan. Built in 2003 at a significant cost, the airport was intended to serve as the primary gateway for tourists visiting the world-famous Kenting National Park and the southern tip of Taiwan. However, the airport faced immediate and persistent challenges due to the region's powerful "Loshuifeng" (katabatic winds), which frequently caused flight cancellations and safety concerns. By 2014, all scheduled commercial services had ceased, making it one of the shortest-lived major infrastructure projects in Taiwan's aviation history.
The terminal building at Hengchun Airport remains a prominent feature of the local landscape, though it is no longer used for passenger flights. During its operational years, the terminal featured a modern, single-level layout with check-in counters, a waiting lounge, and basic amenities designed to handle domestic traffic from Taipei and other regional hubs. The facility included a single 1,700-meter concrete runway and a small parking ramp. Today, while the civilian terminal is defunct, the site is occasionally used for training exercises by the Republic of China Armed Forces and for various community and research activities, including unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) testing.
Although the airport is closed to commercial traffic, it serves as a cautionary tale of the impact of local environmental conditions on aviation planning. The terminal once offered services such as a tourism information counter, wireless internet, and even showers for travelers returning from the nearby beaches. Now, visitors to Kenting National Park primarily use Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) as their aviation gateway, followed by a ground transfer to the south. The Hengchun terminal stands as a quiet monument to the ambition of connecting Taiwan's remote southern peninsula directly to the capital, reflecting the unique meteorological challenges of the Pingtung region.
๐ Connection Tips
Hengchun Airport (HCN) has been closed to commercial operations since 2014; standard Minimum Connection Times (MCT) are no longer applicable. Travelers heading to Kenting National Park or the southern tip of Taiwan must now use Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) as their primary gateway. The most common "connection" for this region is the ground transfer from Kaohsiung to Hengchun, which takes approximately 2 hours via the coastal highway. When arriving internationally at KHH, allow at least 5 hours for the total transition to account for customs, baggage claim, and road travel.
Ground transport from Kaohsiung is plentiful, including the efficient "Kenting Express" bus, private taxis, and car rentals. The express bus links Kaohsiung HSR station and the airport directly to Hengchun and Kenting. If you have a departing flight from Kaohsiung, ensure you leave the south well in advanceโat least 6 hours before an international departureโto navigate potential traffic along the scenic but often congested southern roads. This ensures a stress-free arrival at the KHH terminal for security and check-in.
While Hengchun Airport is no longer active for passengers, the town remains a vibrant cultural center. Layovers in the region are best spent exploring Kentingโs stunning beaches, the Eluanbi Lighthouse, or the local night markets. There are no passenger amenities at HCN, so all logistical arrangements should be made via Kaohsiung. For rebooking or missed connections, contact your airline at Kaohsiung International, as no commercial service desks exist at the defunct Hengchun terminal. The facility serves as a reminder of the unique meteorological challenges posed by the region's strong katabatic winds.
โ Back to Kaohsiung International Airport