Airport code meaning

The airport code is a unique identifier assigned to each airport for efficient communication and navigation purposes.


Airport code definitions

Word backwards tropria edoc
Part of speech The part of speech of the phrase "airport code" is a noun.
Syllabic division air-port code
Plural The plural of airport code is airport codes.
Total letters 11
Vogais (4) a,i,o,e
Consonants (5) r,p,t,c,d

When traveling, whether for business or leisure, you may come across airport codes on your boarding pass or luggage tags that may seem like a random assortment of letters. However, these airport codes play a crucial role in identifying airports worldwide. An airport code is a three-letter code, sometimes referred to as International Air Transport Association (IATA) location identifier, assigned to airports worldwide.

The Purpose of Airport Codes

Airport codes serve as a quick and efficient way to identify airports without having to use their full names. These codes are used by airlines, pilots, air traffic controllers, and passengers to ensure clarity and accuracy in communication, especially in a fast-paced and often high-stress environment like aviation.

How Airport Codes are Assigned

Most airport codes are derived from the name of the airport or the city it serves. For example, the airport code for Los Angeles International Airport is LAX, where the 'X' doesn't have any specific meaning but is added to complete the three-letter code. Some codes are more straightforward, like JFK for John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.

Understanding Airport Codes

While some airport codes may be obvious, others may seem more cryptic. For example, ORD is the code for Chicago O'Hare International Airport, derived from its original name, Orchard Field. Similarly, ATL stands for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Understanding these codes can add a fun and informative element to your travel experience.

Airport codes are not just random letters; they hold significant meaning and serve a practical purpose in the world of aviation. Next time you see an airport code, take a moment to decipher it and appreciate the seamless system that helps millions of passengers reach their destinations safely and efficiently.


Airport code Examples

  1. IATA airport codes are used to identify airports worldwide.
  2. When booking a flight, you will need to enter the airport code for your departure and arrival locations.
  3. PDX is the airport code for Portland International Airport in Oregon.
  4. Arriving passengers can look up their connecting flight's airport code on the departure board.
  5. SFO is the airport code for San Francisco International Airport in California.
  6. Travelers can use airport codes to quickly search for flight information online.
  7. LAX is the airport code for Los Angeles International Airport in California.
  8. Air traffic controllers use airport codes to communicate with pilots during takeoff and landing.
  9. JFK is the airport code for John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.
  10. Passengers can check their boarding passes for the airport code of their destination.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 20/04/2024 - 22:32:12