Coll Island Airport (COL/EGEL): The Essential Travel Hub for the Inner Hebrides
Coll Island Airport (COL/EGEL) is a crucial lifeline and the aerial gateway to the remote and unspoiled Isle of Coll, one of the picturesque Inner Hebrides islands off the west coast of Scotland. Serving both the small local community and an increasing number of eco-tourists, this small regional airfield facilitates essential connectivity to the Scottish mainland. As a vital public service, the airport provides the fastest way to reach the island, known globally for its dark skies, pristine beaches, and rich wildlife.
Overview and Key Airport Facts
Coll Airport, operated by the Argyll & Bute Council, is situated near the west end of the island, approximately 5.8 miles (9.3 km) from the main settlement of Arinagour. Its operation is often managed under a Public Service Obligation (PSO) contract, ensuring that essential transport links remain viable for residents and visitors alike.
| Detail | Specification |
| IATA Code | COL |
| ICAO Code | EGEL |
| Location | Isle of Coll, Inner Hebrides, Scotland |
| Operator | Argyll & Bute Council |
| Coordinates | 56°36′07″N 006°37′04″W |
| Passenger Volume | Approx. 2,000 annually (pre-2025 estimate) |
Airlines, Destinations, and Flight Operations
The airport specializes entirely in domestic, regional air travel, connecting Coll to other key points in Argyll and Bute. Flights are typically operated using small, reliable Islander aircraft, offering a unique and scenic travel experience across the Hebridean seascape.
- Primary Airlines: Hebridean Air Services is the main operator, often alongside Directflight, both providing essential scheduled services.
- Key Destinations:
- Oban (OBN): The main connection point on the mainland. Flight time is approximately 30 minutes.
- Tiree (TRE): Connecting Coll to the neighbouring Isle of Tiree. Flight time is a short 15 minutes.
- Note: Seasonal services or routes via Oban may also connect to other islands like Colonsay (CSA).
Important Passenger Information
Passengers flying to Coll should note the following specific requirements for this regional service:
- Baggage Allowance: Generally, the baggage allowance is strict due to aircraft size, typically limited to 10kg per person. Always check with the airline when booking.
- Check-in: Due to the small-scale operations, check-in is swift but punctual. Always adhere to the required check-in times.
Terminal Services and On-site Facilities
Coll Island Airport operates with a single, very compact terminal building designed for basic functionality. Travelers should be prepared for an airport experience that reflects the island’s remote location and focus on essential transport over luxury.
| Service Category | Availability and Details |
| Terminal Amenities | Services are extremely limited. There is no Wi-Fi access and no café or extensive retail on-site. |
| Accessibility | Limited facilities are available for Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM). Passengers must pre-book assistance at least 48 hours in advance via their airline. |
| Accommodation | The primary accommodation option, The Coll Hotel, is located nearby in Arinagour. |
| Security | Security and check-in procedures are streamlined given the nature of the flights and aircraft. |
Ground Transportation and Getting Around Coll
Given the small size and remote character of Coll, ground transport options are minimal, requiring passengers to plan their onwards journey before arrival.
- Public Transport: There is no regular public bus service on Coll Island.
- Taxi/Private Hire: A limited number of private hire (taxi) services may be available, but this is not guaranteed. Pre-arranging a pickup is strongly recommended. The ride to Arinagour takes approximately 10 minutes.
- Car Rental: Car rental services are not available at the airport.
- Cycling: Cycling is a popular way to explore the island due to low traffic. Bikes can often be hired in Arinagour (e.g., from the Post Office or community center). Note: Bicycles cannot be carried on these specific flights.
- Parking: A small, complimentary (free) parking area is provided for visitors and residents.
Exploring the Isle of Coll: A Natural Gem
Coll Airport serves as the perfect starting point for visitors drawn to the island’s tranquility and natural beauty, making it a key location for SEO searches related to “Scottish island escapes” and “eco-tourism.”
- Beaches: The island is renowned for having over 20 unspoiled, white sandy beaches, such as those near the RSPB reserve at Totronald.
- Wildlife: Coll is a designated National Scenic Area and is excellent for wildlife spotting, including corncrakes, seals, and basking sharks in the surrounding waters.
- Dark Skies: The island is one of the few places in the world designated as a Dark Sky Community, offering spectacular views of the stars and the Milky Way, especially appealing to astronomical enthusiasts.
Contact Information and Booking
For the most current flight schedules and operational details, always contact the airport or the operating airline directly.
- Airport Address: Isle of Coll, PA78 6SY, UNITED KINGDOM
- Airport Phone: +44 1879 230293
- Local Tourism/Information Website: www.visitcoll.co.uk
- Airline Reservations (Hebridean Air Services): +44 1631 572909 or 0845 805 7465