Coconut Island Airport (CNC)

Coconut Island Airport (IATA: CNC, ICAO: YCCT), also known as Poruma Island Airport, is a small but essential aerodrome providing a critical transport link for the remote community of Poruma Island in the Torres Strait, Queensland, Australia. Its primary role is not tourism but to facilitate the movement of residents, mail, medical supplies, and essential freight, connecting the island to the rest of the region and mainland Australia. The airport is a lifeline, ensuring the community remains accessible year-round, particularly when sea travel is difficult.

Established to serve the isolated Poruma Island community, the airport's significance is rooted in its functional purpose. Its history is tied to the development of regional air services in the Torres Strait, which became vital for connecting the scattered island populations. The aerodrome allows for reliable access to healthcare, education, and administrative services based on larger islands like Horn Island and Thursday Island. It operates as a fundamental piece of infrastructure, underpinning the social and economic stability of the local community.

The airport is located directly on Poruma Island (Coconut Island), a small coral cay. Given the island's compact size, the airstrip is situated within a very short distance of the main settlement. Access for arriving and departing passengers is typically arranged privately or through community contacts, as there is no formal public transport, taxi service, or rental car facility available on the island. Most transfers are handled by a short walk or a pre-arranged vehicle ride.

Operations at Coconut Island Airport are exclusively domestic and consist of regional charter and scheduled Regular Public Transport (RPT) flights. The primary carrier serving the airport is Skytrans Airlines, which operates services connecting Poruma Island with other Torres Strait islands on a "milk run" style route, which ultimately links to the main regional hub at Horn Island Airport (HID). Passenger volume is low, reflecting the small size of the resident population it serves.

Traveler facilities at the airport are minimal, consistent with its function as a remote airstrip. There is no traditional terminal building. Instead, a basic shelter provides protection from the sun and rain for waiting passengers. There are no retail stores, restaurants, cafes, or passenger lounges. Visitors should not expect amenities like Wi-Fi, ATMs, or information desks.

For those traveling to Coconut Island, it is crucial to plan ahead. Flights should be booked well in advance due to limited seat capacity on the small aircraft used for these routes. Passengers should bring their own water and snacks, as none are available for purchase. Be prepared for potential flight delays or schedule changes caused by weather. All onward transport from the airstrip must be confirmed prior to arrival on the island. Baggage allowances are strictly enforced on these regional services, so it is advisable to pack lightly.