TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of National Defense (國防部) announced on Thursday (Jan. 22) plans to support transportation during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, with two C-130 aircraft on standby from Feb. 13 to 23. The ministry aimed to alleviate travel congestion as part of its emergency transport implementation plan established in 2010.
Director of the Logistics Management Division, He Chih-hao (賀志豪), emphasized that the plan will help military personnel and civilians return home for the holiday. From 2023 to 2025, the ministry deployed C-130 aircraft 114 times, assisting 7,844 passengers traveling between Kinmen, Matsu (馬祖), Penghu, and major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung. The Civil Aviation Administration (民航局) will determine the need for additional flights based on weather forecasts and passenger numbers.
In addition to transportation efforts, the ministry has ensured that military hospitals will maintain regular emergency and inpatient services during the holiday. Wu Yu-chiua (吳育全), director of the Medical Planning Division, stated that special outpatient clinics will operate on Feb. 16, with four hospitals offering morning and afternoon sessions. Kaohsiung will provide afternoon and evening clinics, while Gangshan (岡山) and Zhongqing (中清) will open morning clinics.
Between Feb. 17 and 19, 12 to 13 hospitals will continue offering special clinics, with most returning to normal schedules on Feb. 20 and 21. The Ministry of National Defense has made this information available on its website, allowing the public to access details online or via phone. The ministry's comprehensive planning aims to ensure a smooth and secure holiday travel experience for all.