Peach Aviation launches flights between Kaohsiung and Okinawa, but airport curfew issue remains unresolved

As the Taoyuan route continues to develop steadily, the operational footprint of low-cost carriers is gradually shifting southward. Following Tigerair’s launch of the Kaohsiung–Fukuoka route last October, Japan-based Peach Aviation announced yesterday that it will officially commence the Kaohsiung–Okinawa route. Starting April 26, there will be one daily flight between Kaohsiung and Okinawa, with ticket sales now open on the official website. This route is also Peach Aviation’s second to Japan from Kaohsiung, following the Kansai route.

Okinawa is one of Taiwanese travelers' favorite destinations in Japan, and in recent years, the expansion of both air and cruise routes has led to a surge in visitor numbers. With Peach Aviation now joining the market, residents in southern Taiwan will find it even more convenient to enjoy Okinawa’s pristine waters and sunshine, or to savor local specialties such as Ishigaki beef and Agu pork. To celebrate the new route, Peach Aviation is also launching a “Kaohsiung–Okinawa Route Launch Commemorative Promotion.” From now until 11:59 PM on January 27, travelers have the chance to snag discounted tickets to Japan.

As the number of international flights departing from Kaohsiung continues to grow, the issue of the “curfew” at Kaohsiung’s Xingang Airport has once again sparked discussion. Due to the airport’s proximity to residential areas, flights are prohibited from taking off or landing between midnight and 6:30 AM to ensure residents’ sleep is not disturbed. However, low-cost carriers, constrained by cost factors, often operate “red-eye flights” that take off or land during these early morning hours.

Although the Kaohsiung City Tourism Bureau had previously coordinated to extend the curfew to 2:00 AM (allowing only landings, not takeoffs) and to lift it earlier at 5:00 AM, this proposal was still not accepted by nearby residents. Meanwhile, Minister of Transportation and Communications Hochen Tan stated that the desire of low-cost carriers to extend operating hours will be further discussed with the Kaohsiung city government and local residents to explore possible solutions.