How do I read my ICAO airport code?

How to Read ICAO Airport Codes

If you’ve ever looked at a flight itinerary or glanced at the departures board at an airport, you’ve probably noticed a series of letters that don’t seem to make much sense. These are ICAO airport codes, and they are used to identify airports and locations in the aviation industry. Understanding how to read and interpret these codes can be incredibly useful, whether you’re a frequent traveler or just have an interest in aviation.

ICAO airport codes are four-letter codes used to identify airports across the world. The first letter indicates the region or country, the next two letters identify the specific airport, and the final letter is often used as a placeholder. For example, the code for London Heathrow Airport is EGLL. The “E” indicates that the airport is in Europe, and “GLL” is the specific code for Heathrow. There are some exceptions to this format, but in general, this is how ICAO codes are structured.

FAQs about ICAO Airport Codes

What are the different regions or countries indicated in the ICAO airport codes?

ICAO airport codes use the first letter to indicate the region or country where the airport is located. For example, airports in North America start with the letter “K”, such as KJFK for John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.

Do all airports have ICAO codes?

Not all airports have ICAO codes, as they are primarily used for international and commercial airports. Smaller, private airports or airstrips may not have an ICAO code.

How can I find the ICAO code for a specific airport?

There are many websites and databases that list ICAO airport codes. You can also look up the code on airline websites or in travel guides.

Are ICAO codes different from IATA codes?

Yes, ICAO codes and IATA codes are different. IATA codes are three-letter codes used by the airline industry to identify airports, while ICAO codes are used by air traffic control and aviation authorities.

Can an airport have multiple ICAO codes?

In some cases, an airport may have multiple ICAO codes. This can occur if an airport has multiple runways, terminals, or separate facilities.

How are ICAO codes used in aviation?

ICAO codes are essential for pilots, air traffic control, and aviation authorities to communicate and identify specific airports around the world. They are also used in flight planning, navigation, and aircraft operations.

What is the significance of the final letter in the ICAO code?

The final letter in an ICAO code is often used as a placeholder and does not have a specific meaning. It is part of the standardized format for ICAO codes.

Is there a difference between ICAO and FAA codes?

Yes, ICAO codes are used internationally, while FAA codes are specific to airports in the United States and are issued by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Are ICAO codes subject to change?

ICAO codes can change if an airport undergoes significant expansions, renovations, or changes in ownership. It’s essential to stay updated with these changes for accurate flight planning and operations.

Can I use ICAO codes to track flights?

While ICAO codes are not used to track flights, they are essential for identifying airports and locations in flight plans and communication between pilots and air traffic control.

How are new ICAO codes assigned?

New ICAO codes are assigned by the International Civil Aviation Organization based on specific criteria and guidelines. These codes are unique and standardized to ensure global aviation operations.