[Flight Report] CX 479 Taipei - Hong Kong

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.

More photos on my website : https://www.globalphotos.org/cx479.htm