Kinmen Airport

Kinmen Airport serves as the main aerial gateway to the eponymous archipelago, often referred to as the "Golden Gate" of Taiwan. This transport hub does more than just receive flights; from the very first minute, it immerses travellers in a distinct island atmosphere where rich history and picturesque nature intertwine. Despite its compact size, the airport plays a key role in the life of the region, connecting it with major cities on the main island and ensuring a comfortable start to an exciting journey.

Despite its domestic status, Kinmen Airport offers a high level of service and possesses several unique features:

Special Duty-Free Zone. Kinmen holds a special economic status, which allows Duty-Free shops (such as Ever Rich) to operate within the airport. Here, tourists can purchase branded goods, cosmetics, and perfumes at favourable prices before flying to the main island of Taiwan.

Local Souvenirs. You can purchase the region's main gastronomic symbols within the terminal, saving you time searching in the city. The renowned Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor, peanut candy, and steel knives—historically forged from old artillery shells—are particularly popular.

Cultural Flair. The terminal's design often incorporates elements of traditional architecture and images of "Wind Lions"—stone guardian deities that are the symbol of the archipelago. The tourist centre in the arrivals area provides detailed maps and assists with vehicle rental (scooters or cars), which is the best way to get around the island.

To contact representatives of Kinmen Airport or to obtain additional information, please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.kma.gov.tw
• Information Desk Phone: +886-82-322381
• Address: No. 1, Airport Road, Jinhu Township, Kinmen County, 891, Taiwan
• Email: For general enquiries, you may use cnaa0901@mail.caa.gov.tw; however, for a prompt response, it is recommended to use the telephone or the feedback form on the website.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official accounts on popular international social networks. All official information is published on the website.
• Lost and Found: If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please contact the airport's Lost and Found service. In case of issues with checked baggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support: Primary support is provided by staff at the information desks within the terminal building. You may also call the general enquiry number.

Getting to Kinmen Airport, the key transport hub of Kinmen island, is quite straightforward. Despite the compact size of this picturesque corner of Taiwan, the transport system here is well-organised and offers travellers several convenient options to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences.

Public Transport: The most economical way to reach the airport is by using local buses. Several routes connect the air terminal with the island's main settlements, such as Jincheng and Shanwai. A bus ride is not only budget-friendly but also offers a chance to observe the measured pace of island life. We recommend checking the current schedule in advance, as intervals may vary depending on the day of the week and the season.

Taxi and Transfer: For those who value comfort and time, a taxi is the optimal choice. Cars can be easily found at stands in the towns or ordered through your hotel. This is particularly convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family. The journey from the centre of Jincheng to the airport takes only about 10–15 minutes. The fare is fixed and quite affordable.

Car or Scooter Rental: Many tourists prefer to rent a car or scooter for free movement around the island. Most rental companies offer the convenience of returning the vehicle directly at the airport. This is an ideal option for those who wish to use their time most efficiently and perhaps visit a few interesting places on the way before departing.

Airport Parking: If you are travelling in a private or rented car, parking facilities are available at the airport. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, allowing you to leave your car without any issues for the duration of your absence from the island.

Kinmen Airport (KNH) is a modern and compact aviation hub characterised by a structure that is simple and easy for passengers to understand. It consists of one main terminal serving all domestic flights. Thanks to its small size, navigating the airport presents no difficulties even for those visiting for the first time.

The terminal layout is logical and intuitive. All key zones—check-in, security screening, boarding gates, and baggage claim—are located within a single building. You will not have to worry about long transfers between terminals, as all operations are concentrated under one roof. Signs in Chinese and English will help you easily orient yourself and find the necessary sector.

The Departure Zone is situated to minimise the time spent on formalities. Immediately after entering the terminal, you will see the airline check-in counters. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening. Beyond the security checkpoint lies a comfortable waiting hall with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is also organised very simply: after disembarking, passengers enter the baggage claim hall, and from there, into the general meeting area.

Passing through check-in and security procedures at Kinmen Airport usually takes significantly less time than at major international hubs. Typically, all formalities take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1–1.5 hours before departure to complete all stages without rushing and perhaps enjoy a coffee before your flight.

The main advice for navigation is to simply follow the signs. Due to the airport's compactness, it is practically impossible to get lost here. If you have any questions, staff at the information desk or airline employees are always ready to assist.

The history of Kinmen Airport (KNH) is unique and closely intertwined with the strategic position of the archipelago. It was originally built as a military airfield in the mid-20th century and served exclusively for the needs of the armed forces for decades, ensuring transport links and logistics for the garrison.

The key moment that changed the airport's destiny was the year 1987. It was then, following the lifting of martial law on the islands after many years, that the airport was opened to civil aviation. This event marked a new era for Kinmen, opening it up to tourists and simplifying communication with the main part of Taiwan.

As passenger traffic grew, the old infrastructure could no longer cope with the load. To address this issue, a large-scale reconstruction was undertaken. In 2004, the construction of a new, modern passenger terminal was completed. This allowed not only for increased capacity but also significantly improved the level of comfort for travellers.

Another important stage in the airport's history was the early 2000s, with the establishment of the so-called "Mini Three Links". This opened direct ferry and air connections with nearby cities in mainland China, primarily Xiamen. Kinmen Airport transformed into a vital transit hub, actively used by both tourists and locals for travel between the two shores of the Taiwan Strait.

Today, Kinmen Airport is a modern and functional transport complex. It successfully combines civil flight services while retaining its strategic importance, and its history is a vivid reflection of the path the entire archipelago has travelled—from an isolated military territory to a popular and welcoming tourist destination.

Kinmen Airport (KNH) offers its guests all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed to make your stay here as convenient and pleasant as possible, regardless of the purpose of your trip.

For those feeling hungry, there are restaurants and cafes operating in the airport where you can have a full meal or a quick snack. The menu includes local cuisine as well as more familiar snacks. In the shops, you can buy souvenirs, daily necessities, and reading materials. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting halls.

Financial matters can be settled on-site: ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service. If necessary, passengers can visit the medical point for first aid. For travellers with small children, nursing rooms are provided where you can care for your baby in a quiet environment.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped toilets, and lifts. Airport staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance. Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, several hotels are located nearby where you can rest before departure or after arrival. Basic business services may be available for business travellers, though it is better to use conference rooms in city hotels for hosting major events.

At Kinmen Airport (KNH), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full lunch, concentrated mainly in the main terminal building. Although the selection here is not as vast as in major international hubs, you certainly won't go hungry.

Most dining establishments are located in the landside area (public zone), accessible to both departing and arriving passengers before passing through security control. Here you will find several cafes and small restaurants offering both local dishes and familiar Asian cuisine. This is an excellent place to eat calmly before your flight or whilst waiting for your transfer.

Be sure to pay attention to local specialities. In the airport cafes, you can try the famous Taiwanese beef noodle soup (牛肉麵) or other traditional dishes. Kinmen is famous for its gastronomic souvenirs, such as peanut candy (Gong Tang) and dried beef jerky, which can be bought in local shops right in the terminal—making for both a tasty snack and a great gift.

For those looking for a quick bite, coffee shops are ideal, where you can order sandwiches, pastries, and, of course, the famous Taiwanese bubble tea. For a more substantial meal, it is better to choose one of the small restaurants serving hot dishes. While there may not be specialised vegan or certified halal restaurants here, vegetarian options, such as dishes with rice and vegetables, can be found on the menus of many cafes.

The price range at Kinmen Airport is quite moderate. Prices here are not much higher than in city establishments. Most food outlets operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last evening aircraft.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Kinmen city is as comfortable as possible, we have prepared a few useful tips. Although this is not the largest airport in Taiwan, knowing some nuances will help avoid unnecessary stress and save time.

Arrival Time at the Airport
For most domestic flights served by the airport, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is quite sufficient to check in luggage, complete registration, and pass through security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security Control
To avoid queues at the counters, take advantage of online check-in on your airline's website. At the security checkpoint, prepare your boarding pass and documents in advance, and remove laptops, tablets, and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane
Do you want to take beautiful photos of the islands from above? Choose a window seat. If legroom and the ability to leave the cabin quickly upon arrival are more important to you, then the best solution is an aisle seat.

What Can and Cannot Be Carried in Hand Luggage
Standard international rules apply: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited. Please note that power banks (external batteries) can be transported only in hand luggage.

Recommendations for Transit Passengers
Kinmen Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub. If you have a transfer planned, be sure to check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage.

Customs Control Features
Customs control is not required for domestic flights. For passengers arriving on international or charter flights (for example, from mainland China), standard rules apply: goods exceeding established limits must be declared, and one must remember the ban on importing certain categories of products (mainly agricultural produce).

How to Save Time and Money
Besides online check-in, save money by bringing an empty water bottle—after security, it can be filled at drinking fountains. Compare the cost of a taxi and public transport to/from the airport to choose the most advantageous option.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay
First of all, contact your airline representative for the latest information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. While waiting for departure, you can visit the small cafes and shops located in the terminal.