Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA)

Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) maintains a somewhat restrictive yet accommodating smoking policy for travelers, categorized as "Limited." For passengers who have not yet passed through security, smoking is permitted exclusively in designated outdoor areas located outside the main terminal buildings. These areas are typically clearly marked, providing a space for smokers before they proceed to their flights. It is crucial for travelers to utilize these specific zones to avoid any potential penalties or inconveniences, as smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal building before security. Once past the security checkpoints, the policy becomes more nuanced, with recent updates indicating the availability of specific outdoor smoking facilities. As of December 2022, an outdoor smoking area has been confirmed in the Transfer Terminal, conveniently situated near Gate B7 and adjacent to a coffee shop. This provides a much-appreciated option for transit passengers or those with longer layovers who wish to smoke without having to exit the secure area and re-enter. Prior to this, an update from November 2019 also mentioned an "Outdoor Rest Area" near Gate 4R where smoking was allowed, though it was noted that this area might not be clearly indicated by airport signage. Travelers seeking this location should specifically look for "Outdoor Rest Area" signs or inquire with airport staff. It is important to note that the airport's smoking policy has seen fluctuations, particularly in response to global health events. An update from February 2022 indicated that all smoking areas, including those on the concourse drop-off, were temporarily closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. While the December 2022 update suggests a reopening of at least one after-security area, travelers should always be prepared for potential changes and verify the current status upon arrival. Vaping policies are not explicitly detailed in the available information, so it is generally safest to assume that vaping is subject to the same restrictions as traditional smoking, or prohibited indoors. For smokers, the key tip is to always look for official signage indicating designated smoking zones. If in doubt, asking airport staff for directions to the nearest outdoor smoking facility, especially after security, is advisable. While duty-free tobacco products may still be available for purchase within the airport, their consumption is strictly limited to the specified outdoor areas. The presence of after-security options means that passengers do not need to exit the secure area and undergo re-screening to smoke, which is a significant convenience.