Taiwan's High-Speed Train Debuts

The project has suffered numerous delays and concerns have been raised about its safety standards.

Construction began in 2000, aiming for an October 2005 launch date, but delays in the project's core electrical systems forced postponement for a year.

The service was further held up after the operator failed to obtain a safety certification from independent verification and validation firm Lloyd's Register. The certification was eventually obtained on Nov. 20.

The company also canceled a Dec. 7 opening ceremony after the government said further tests were needed before it could launch. No new date for an official ceremony has been announced.

When full service begins, Taiwan's four domestic airlines are expected to be the main casualty, because the rail system will bring the vast majority of Taiwanese no further than a two-hour train ride from Taipei.

To try to soften the blow, the airlines have been either purchasing rail equity, or spreading their wings by adding international routes.