Operational

Campbeltown Airport

Campbeltown, United Kingdom

CAL EGEC

Airport Information

Continent Europe
ICAO/IATA EGEC / CAL
Elevation 42 ft (13m)
Coordinates 55.4372, -5.6864

Current Weather

Weather
6°C
Light rain
March 15
03:15
Local Time
36
km/h S
10
km visibility
93%
humidity

Runways

Runway 11/29

ASP
Lighted
Length 5,741 ft (1750m)
Width 151 ft (46m)
Surface ASP
Status
Operational

About Campbeltown Airport

Campbeltown Airport, also known as Machrihanish Airport, is a small regional airport located near the town of Campbeltown in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. The airport is situated on the former Royal Air Force Station Machrihanish, which operated during World War II. Today, the airport serves as an important transportation hub for the region, connecting residents and visitors to destinations both within the UK and abroad.

One of the most notable features of Campbeltown Airport is its runway, which is one of the longest in Europe at 3,049 meters (10,000 feet) in length. This makes it capable of handling a wide range of aircraft, from small regional planes to larger jets. The airport is equipped with modern facilities, including a fully instrumented control tower, terminal building, and ample parking for aircraft.

Campbeltown Airport operates flights to a few key destinations, including Glasgow, London, and a seasonal service to Dublin. These flights are operated by airlines such as Loganair and Eastern Airways, providing convenient connections for passengers traveling to and from the region. In addition to scheduled services, the airport also handles general aviation traffic, including private and chartered flights.

The airport plays an important role in supporting the local economy, providing essential air links for businesses and residents in the area. It also serves as a gateway for tourists visiting Campbeltown and the surrounding area. The airport is located near several popular tourist attractions, such as Machrihanish Golf Club and the historic town of Campbeltown, making it a convenient arrival point for visitors to the region.

The history of Campbeltown Airport is closely tied to its military past. The airport was originally established as Royal Air Force Station Machrihanish during World War II, serving as a base for RAF and United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) personnel. The airport played a crucial role in the war effort, supporting operations in Europe and North Africa.

After the war, the airport was handed over to civilian authorities and converted into a commercial airport. Today, the airport continues to honor its military heritage, with a museum on site dedicated to the history of aviation at Machrihanish. Visitors can learn about the airport's wartime past and view displays of vintage aircraft and memorabilia.

In recent years, Campbeltown Airport has faced challenges due to changes in the aviation industry and fluctuations in passenger numbers. Despite these challenges, the airport remains an important asset for the region, providing essential air links for residents and businesses. Efforts are underway to promote the airport and attract new routes and services to help secure its long-term future.

In conclusion, Campbeltown Airport is a vital transportation hub for the region, connecting residents and visitors to key destinations in the UK and abroad. With its long runway, modern facilities, and military heritage, the airport plays a significant role in supporting the local economy and preserving the history of aviation in Scotland. As efforts continue to strengthen and grow the airport, Campbeltown remains a key player in the region's aviation landscape.