TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A power outage at Taoyuan International Airport's (桃園國際機場) Terminal 2 disrupted operations on Wednesday (March 12), leaving passengers stranded as airport authorities scrambled to investigate the cause. The outage occurred at noon, affecting the central area of the terminal and halting ground services, leading to significant delays for travelers.
Backup power was activated at 12:13 p.m., and partial electricity returned around 12:23 p.m. However, the main building of Terminal 2 remains without power. Check-in counters in the departure hall on the third floor are out of service, with only the south and north extension areas functioning. X-ray machines in the security checkpoint area are offline, prompting the Aviation Police Bureau (航警局) to conduct manual inspections.
Despite the outage, passport verification continues unaffected due to backup systems. However, to conserve energy, automatic verification services have been suspended. Witnesses reported a burning smell at the scene, and lighting, which briefly resumed, failed to remain operational. The outage has primarily impacted the central and main areas of Terminal 2, while the extension areas and B2 remain unaffected.
Large crowds formed as passengers wait for security checks, with many expressing frustration over the delays. Airport officials have convened meetings to clarify the situation and restore normalcy.