Merritt Island Airport (COI)
Merritt Island Airport (COI) is a public-use airport located in Merritt Island, Florida, situated in Brevard County. Nestled along Florida’s Space Coast, the airport is approximately 5 miles south of Cocoa, 11 miles from Cocoa Beach, and just 15 miles west of the Kennedy Space Center. The airport primarily serves general aviation aircraft, private pilots, flight schools, and air taxi services, making it a hub for local aviation enthusiasts and a key access point for visitors to the Space Coast. Merritt Island Airport is operated by the Titusville-Cocoa Airport Authority and offers an inviting alternative to larger commercial airports in the region.
Though smaller than nearby international airports, COI is well-positioned for tourists and locals alike who wish to explore the natural beauty, outdoor activities, and world-class attractions of the Space Coast, including beaches, wildlife refuges, and the iconic Kennedy Space Center.
Terminals and Services
1. General Aviation Services: Merritt Island Airport does not have a commercial passenger terminal. Instead, it is primarily a general aviation airport, serving private aircraft, flight training, and recreational pilots. As such, it provides basic services such as aircraft refueling, hangar rentals, and maintenance services for general aviation aircraft.
- Fixed-Base Operator (FBO): The airport’s FBO provides essential services for pilots and their aircraft, including fueling, parking, hangar space, flight planning resources, and weather information. The FBO is a convenient stop for pilots flying in and out of the Space Coast area.
- Flight Schools: Merritt Island Airport is home to several flight schools, offering pilot training for beginner and advanced levels. This makes COI a popular destination for aspiring pilots looking to get their start in aviation.
2. Runways and Facilities: Merritt Island Airport features a single asphalt runway, Runway 11/29, which is 3,601 feet long. The airport’s facilities also include aircraft parking ramps, tie-downs, hangars, and maintenance shops. Though small, the airport’s facilities are sufficient to handle general aviation traffic and provide a convenient and low-key alternative to larger airports in the region.
Transportation and Connectivity
1. Ground Transportation: Visitors to Merritt Island Airport have several ground transportation options to reach nearby destinations on the Space Coast.
- Rental Cars: While the airport itself does not have rental car facilities, nearby car rental services are available in Merritt Island and Cocoa Beach. Visitors can rent vehicles from well-known companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are available for airport visitors, offering convenient transportation to nearby towns, beaches, and attractions.
- Bicycles: The area around Merritt Island is bicycle-friendly, with several scenic routes that allow visitors to explore the nearby wildlife preserves, parks, and waterfront areas on two wheels.
2. Parking: Merritt Island Airport offers free parking for visitors, making it easy for pilots and guests to access the airport and nearby areas. Parking is available for both short-term and long-term use.
Things to Do Nearby for Visitors
Merritt Island Airport is ideally located near some of Florida’s top attractions, from space exploration to nature preserves and beautiful beaches. Visitors flying into the airport can explore the many activities and sights the Space Coast has to offer.
1. Kennedy Space Center: Located just 15 miles from Merritt Island Airport, the Kennedy Space Center is one of the most famous attractions in the world, drawing visitors interested in space exploration and science. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, view spacecraft and rockets up close, and even witness live rocket launches if they time their visit right. Highlights include the Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Apollo/Saturn V Center, and the Astronaut Hall of Fame. The Kennedy Space Center is a must-see for anyone visiting the Space Coast.
2. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is located just north of the airport, offering nature lovers a chance to explore one of Florida’s most diverse ecosystems. The refuge covers more than 140,000 acres of wetlands, marshes, and coastal dunes and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and over 300 species of birds. Visitors can hike, kayak, fish, and birdwatch, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Cocoa Beach: About a 20-minute drive from Merritt Island Airport, Cocoa Beach is one of Florida’s most iconic beach destinations. Known for its laid-back vibe and soft sandy shores, Cocoa Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and fishing. Visitors can stroll along the famous Cocoa Beach Pier, enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, or take surf lessons at the Ron Jon Surf Shop, the largest surf shop in the world.
4. Port Canaveral: Just 20 minutes from Merritt Island, Port Canaveral is a bustling cruise port and gateway to the Caribbean. Visitors can book a day cruise or explore the port’s attractions, such as waterfront dining, charter fishing, and boat tours. Port Canaveral is also home to the Exploration Tower, where visitors can learn about the area’s history and enjoy panoramic views of the coast.
5. Brevard Zoo: Located about 25 minutes from the airport, the Brevard Zoo offers family-friendly fun with a focus on conservation and wildlife education. Visitors can explore animal exhibits, feed giraffes, and even kayak through the zoo’s African-themed exhibit areas. With over 900 animals and a variety of interactive experiences, the zoo is a great spot for families and animal lovers.
6. Historic Cocoa Village: Just a short drive from Merritt Island Airport, Historic Cocoa Village is a charming area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The village hosts numerous events, including art festivals, farmers markets, and live performances. It’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, shop for unique gifts, or dine at local eateries.
7. Indian River Lagoon: Running along Merritt Island, the Indian River Lagoon is a biodiverse estuary that provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Visitors can explore the calm waters of the lagoon, where they might spot manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. Eco-tours are available for those interested in learning more about the area’s wildlife and ecosystem.
Vicinity of Merritt Island Airport
Dining and Shopping at COI
1. Dining Options: While Merritt Island Airport does not have on-site dining facilities, there are several dining options in the surrounding area. Visitors can find local eateries and cafes within a short drive, offering everything from casual fare to seafood restaurants.
- Local Restaurants: Merritt Island and nearby Cocoa Beach offer a range of dining options, including seafood shacks, family-friendly restaurants, and fine dining establishments. Popular local spots include Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar in Port Canaveral and The Fat Snook in Cocoa Beach.
2. Shopping: While shopping options are not available at the airport, visitors can head to nearby Cocoa Beach or Merritt Island for boutique shops, local art galleries, and surf shops.
- Cocoa Beach: Known for its surf culture, Cocoa Beach is home to the world-famous Ron Jon Surf Shop, where visitors can shop for surfboards, beachwear, and souvenirs.
Important Links (Suggest / Report)
- Merritt Island Airport Official Website
www.flyspacecoast.org
Find information about the airport, flight schools, and general aviation services. - Things to Do on Florida’s Space Coast
www.visitspacecoast.com
Explore nearby attractions, activities, and events in the Space Coast area.
Additional Details
- Location: 900 Airport Rd, Merritt Island, FL 32952.
- Public Transportation: While public buses do not serve the airport directly, taxis and rideshares provide convenient transportation to local hotels, attractions, and towns.
- Parking: Merritt Island Airport offers free parking for both short-term and long-term use.
- Accessibility: Merritt Island Airport is fully accessible, providing services for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and accessible parking.
