Taiwan passengers can now fly to the mainland directly across the Taiwan Strait and return in one day. They no longer need to transfer at a third location. It's very convenient for people in Taiwan, especially for businessmen.
Passengers and businessmen in Taiwan have waited for this for a long time. And now, they are very excited.
A Taiwan businessman said, "I can return in one day. It's helpful for my business."
A passenger said, "Many people are so excited they can not fall asleep."
In the past, passengers had to detour to Hong Kong for destinations either in the mainland or Taiwan, stretching 80-minute flights between Shanghai and Taipei to as long as two and a half hours.
Taiwan businessman Mr. Hung said, "Now I can go to the mainland twice a month instead of once a month."
Mr. Hong's daughter said, "Shorter flights will give us more time to be together with our family."
But some passengers say the tickets are too expensive.
Dennis Tien, general manager of Transasia Airways, said, "If the supply exceeds the demand, the ticket prices will decrease. It seems possible in the near future."
Nevertheless, time and money have been saved due to the direct flights. The dream of making the return trip in one day has come true.
(CCTV December 16, 2008)
