Taoyuan Airport Implements Major New Regulation! Starting August 1, Violators Face Fines Up to NT$25,000 for Unauthorized Space Occupation

Attention travelers requiring pick-up or drop-off services: Taoyuan International Airport is introducing a major new regulation for its arrival hall. With inbound tourist numbers rising annually, many travel agencies and hotels have launched dedicated pick-up services. However, some pick-up personnel have recently been using welcome signs, carry-on luggage, or personal belongings to occupy low walls at passenger exits in the arrival hall for extended periods. This practice not only causes disputes and obstructs passenger movement but also severely damages Taiwan’s national image.

Taoyuan International Airport Corporation has officially issued a notice, stating that July 31 will mark the end of an intensified guidance period. Starting August 1, violators will face legal penalties, with fines up to NT$25,000 and possible forced removal by airport authorities.

Taoyuan Airport's Major New Rule: Fines Up to NT$25,000 from August 1 for Signage and Luggage Blocking Low Walls

With global travel recovering, inbound visitor numbers to Taiwan continue to grow steadily, increasing the volume of pick-up operations for travel agencies and hotels. This allows passengers to proceed directly to hotels or begin scheduled itineraries upon arrival. However, Taoyuan Airport Corporation has formally notified travel agencies of serious violations affecting operational order in the arrival hall.

During peak hours, some pick-up staff have been observed using welcome signs, luggage, or other personal items to occupy low walls at passenger exits for prolonged periods. The airport authority states that such behavior disrupts terminal traffic flow, hinders general passenger movement, and has previously led to multiple disputes and verbal altercations among pick-up personnel. These actions not only affect passenger convenience but also harm the overall image and operational efficiency of the terminal.

Guidance Period Until July 31; Enforcement Begins August 1

In response to these issues, Taoyuan Airport emphasizes that the arrival hall is a public space for all passengers and must not be privately occupied using signs or objects. To allow industry operators time to adjust, the airport has announced a two-phase enforcement plan:

- **Enhanced Guidance Period (now until July 31)**: Airport staff will conduct random inspections and provide verbal warnings and education to personnel found occupying low walls. - **Formal Enforcement Period (starting August 1)**: After the guidance period, any continued violations will be penalized under Article 119-3, Paragraph 1 of the Civil Aviation Act, with fines ranging from NT$5,000 to NT$25,000. In severe cases, the airport will coordinate with the Aviation Police Bureau to enforce mandatory removal from the premises.

Industry Feedback: Peak Hours Make Space Hard to Find; Call for Designated Zones and Standardized Signage

Regarding the new rules, travel agency representative Li Chi-yueh told Central News Agency that during peak flight arrival times, pick-up staff often struggle to find standing space, leading some operators in the past to use large items or luggage to reserve spots.

Li acknowledged the necessity of promoting compliance but also urged practical solutions. He suggested that if the airport could establish a designated pick-up staff zone and standardize the size and specifications of welcome signs, it could balance terminal order with industry needs—a sustainable long-term solution.