Taiwan’s domestic flight prices rise amid oil price surge

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's domestic flight ticket prices are set to rise by an average of 4.5%, equating to an additional NT＄95 per ticket, due to global oil price increases.

This hike disproportionately affects Kinmen residents, frequent travelers between Kinmen and Taiwan. According to reports, Mandarin Airlines' Taipei to Kinmen route has seen a 7.4% fare increase, an additional NT＄182.

As the New Year's holiday approaches, this price hike is expected to impact tourists flying domestically, leading to more expensive air travel. For now, road traffic is anticipated to surge during New Year's Eve celebrations.

To facilitate travel during the festive season, Taiwan will waive freeway tolls from midnight to 5 a.m. The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) and Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) will also increase service frequencies to accommodate expected passenger volumes.

THSR has introduced 105 additional services, maintaining discounts for college students and early bird offers. TRA will run 116 extra trains, with anticipated passenger volumes potentially exceeding 800,000 on peak days. However, sales for tickets to child-friendly carriages are temporarily halted.

Starting midnight on Dec. 1, tickets for these extra train services during the New Year period will be available, aiming to alleviate travel congestion during the holidays.