Hong Kong's pandemic entry restrictions have vastly eased and it looks like things have gone back to normal with no additional documentation requirements anymore, although theoretically we need to do a rapid test within a day of departure. It's already a huge improvement from summer 2022 when I carried my vaccination proof, quarantine hotel booking, negative PCR test report, and QR code to just check-in.
Taoyuan's Terminal 1 looked reasonably busy on Saturday night, although Cathay's check-in counters weren't busy and I was quickly processed. Staff reminded me to wait for the case to go through a security scan first before heading to the departures area, a fairly unique procedure specific to this airport.
A live view shows the X-ray machine's exit to confirm your case has passed the first test.
A number of airlines fly the short Hong Kong - Taipei route. Cathay's low-cost carrier, Hong Kong Express, also has a later flight. Greater Bay Airlines is a new airline based in Hong Kong with only very limited regional routes but big ambitions for more. I'm a bit skeptical after seeing Hainan-backed Hong Kong Airlines tout and fall into disgrace.
There was a long line for security so I opted to get air-side first instead of exploring the souvenir shop next to it. I had thought they should have a branch by the gates, which I would later find out is not the case. The air-side shop had far fewer selection.
A number of high-end shops were open air-side although there were still a lot of storefronts that have been emptied out for good.
There wasn't much to explore around here so I was happy to see boarding under way.
I happily settled into my window seat, again at the back of the plane. Tonight's flight is operated by an A350-1000, just like the inbound. There was a decent loading but not as full as my previous flight.
We pushed back 2 minutes ahead of schedule and went a long way to the take-off position, passing by a number of Starlux airplanes.
We took off towards the north and looped around for the short flight home.
I was surprised a hot rice was served on this sector as well, a minced meat mix.
With a right window seat, I was able to spot the city as we descended towards an arrival from the west.
We arrived at the gate a few minutes ahead of schedule and the arrival process was smooth. There were minimal crowds and I even opted for a manned counter instead of an automated kiosk for immigration clearance. My luggage didn't take much time to come out although it was still a little longer than my Toronto arrival several weeks back. Nevertheless, I was satisfied and the arrivals hall was quiet that late into the night.
From gate to the Airport Express platform took 40 minutes.
