TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taoyuan International Airport (桃園國際機場) launched trial operations of its Terminal 3 North Concourse Monday (Dec. 1), with three flights testing the new facility ahead of full operations by year-end. China Airlines (華航) flew to Sapporo at 8:35 a.m., Starlux Airlines (星宇) departed for Bangkok at 9:25 a.m., and EVA Air (長榮) left for Sapporo at 9:30 a.m. The new concourse will boost Taiwan's main international gateway capacity by 45 million passengers annually.
The North Concourse extends from Terminal 2's D10 gate, spanning 738 meters (807 yards) with a height of 13 meters (14 yards), creating a major expansion of Taiwan's primary aviation hub. Administrative Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, Taiwan's transport ministry, Lin Kuo-Shian (林國顯) anticipates Terminal 3 will accommodate an additional 45 million passengers annually when fully operational. Airport officials plan to fully operate the concourse by the end of the year.
Construction of Terminal 3 began in 2017, with an investment exceeding NT$95 billion (around US$3 billion), representing one of Taiwan's largest infrastructure projects. Officials expect to complete the main structure, South Concourse, and multifunctional building by 2027, with phased openings planned throughout the construction period. The airport opened a temporary overnight apron in the third runway construction area in July, initially offering nine parking spaces, with plans to increase to 16 in the second phase to accommodate growing demand.
Internationally renowned designer Richard Rogers' team crafted the waiting area, featuring a high, transparent design that allows natural light to flood through glass curtain walls throughout the terminal space. Major coffee brands and dining establishments have opened locations in the North Concourse, providing food and beverage services for travelers. The facility represents a significant upgrade to passenger amenities at Taiwan's busiest airport. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31.4)