TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Severe thunderstorms forced Taiwan's Songshan Airport to suspend ground operations Monday (Aug. 18) at 1:13 p.m., disrupting air traffic across the island. The Civil Aviation Administration CAA (民航局) Taiwan's aviation regulator immediately advised passengers and airport visitors to monitor flight status updates and contact airlines directly for assistance. The weather-related shutdown affected multiple flight schedules at the busy domestic and regional airport.
Taiwan's Central Weather Administration CWA (中央氣象署), the island's meteorological agency, issued comprehensive thunderstorm alerts across multiple regions Monday afternoon. Heavy rain warnings extended to Taipei, New Taipei City, mountainous areas, Taoyuan City, Kaohsiung City, and Pingtung County throughout the island. The widespread weather alerts prompted aviation authorities to prioritize passenger safety by immediately suspending Songshan Airport operations.
Connected airports across Taiwan's aviation network experienced cascading disruptions, facing potential delays in departures and arrivals linked to Songshan operations. The Civil Aviation Administration directed airport stations to communicate schedule changes through bulletin boards, electronic displays, and public announcements. Officials strongly advised travelers to verify current flight information through the administration's official website for real-time updates. ◼