On August 12, 2005, Taiwan officially authorized the Taipei Airlines Association (TAA) to handle liaison and arrangement of matters relevant to cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, as well as to continue related talks and liaison with the China Civil Aviation Association in China. Regrettably, both sides have not yet reached a consensus in this regard. Taiwan remains unchanged in its position that matters concerning cargo and passenger charter flights can be discussed and arranged simultaneously. Taiwan will also continue to actively communicate with China on related issues to complete negotiations at an early date.
For the convenience of Taiwanese businessmen returning home during the 2006 Lunar New Year and aviation industries on both sides making timely arrangements, the successful experience in the implementation of the 2005 Lunar New Year charter flights will be used for reference. Therefore, during the course of cross-strait communication on cargo and passenger charter flights, both sides have agreed to first discuss the arrangements and operating details of the 2006 Lunar New Year charter flights based on the 2005 model. Following their agreement, the responsible authorities on both sides have reached a consensus and confirmed the outcome.
The charter flight period for the 2006 Lunar New Year will be from January 20 to February 13, 2006, totaling 25 days. Relevant arrangements will be handled according to the operation model used for the 2005 Lunar New Year charter flights. However, the destination points in China will be expanded to include Xiamen in addition to Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou. The number of flights will be increased from 48 to 72 (36 flights from each side of the Strait); and the scope of qualified passengers will be expanded to include not only the responsible persons and employees of Taiwanese companies and their dependents as in 2005, but also any resident of the Taiwan Area holding a legal entry and exit permit issued by both sides. (See attachment on 2006 Lunar New Year charter flight arrangements)
With regard to follow-up implementation of Lunar New Year charter flights, the Mainland Affairs Council will coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications as well as other relevant government agencies to formulate related operational regulations at the earliest possible time. Upon completion of the administrative procedures, these regulations will be publicly announced and put into effect.