Air Macao has started operating flights from Shenzhen to Taipei via Macao. But only about 100 people could take advantage of the service on Sunday.

That's far from enough for the 1 million Taiwan compatriots working and living on the mainland. They're urging the island's authorities to set up the three direct links across the straits as soon as possible.

Taiwan people are returning home for Spring Festival family reunions. But airlines from the island are still not able to provide non-stop chartered flights to and from the mainland, due to restrictions imposed by the Taiwan authorities.

All its passengers welcome the special services provided by Air Macao, but they still want direct flights.

A Taiwan businessman said: "Time means money for us businessmen. A two-hour cut for each trip can bring us lots of benefits and convenience."

Another Taiwan businessman said: "To fly directly from Shenzhen to Taipei is the best way."

Meanwhile, airlines from the mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan are doing their best to meet the holiday demand. And Macao and Hong Kong continue to provide a crucial link. Mainland airlines first transport passengers to Hong Kong and Macao, and then Taiwan airlines fly them back home.

(cctv.com  January 19, 2004)