IATA
IATA Airport Code
A three-letter code assigned by the International Air Transport Association to identify airports worldwide.
IATA airport codes are three-letter identifiers assigned by the International Air Transport Association to airports around the world. These codes are used in airline schedules, ticketing, baggage handling, and flight tracking. Examples include JFK (New York John F. Kennedy), LAX (Los Angeles), and LHR (London Heathrow). While most IATA codes are derived from the airport or city name, some have historical origins that differ from current names.
Common Causes
Impact & Duration
Impact Level
N/A - Identification standard, not an operational delay
Typical Duration
N/A
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are IATA codes three letters?
The three-letter format was established in the 1930s to provide enough combinations (17,576 possible codes) for global airports while remaining short enough for efficient communication and ticketing systems.
How are IATA codes assigned?
IATA assigns codes based on requests from airports or airlines. Codes typically relate to city or airport names, but availability and historical factors also play a role.
What's the difference between IATA and ICAO codes?
IATA codes (3 letters) are used commercially for ticketing and baggage. ICAO codes (4 letters) are used by air traffic control and flight planning. US airports' ICAO codes typically start with 'K' (e.g., KJFK for JFK).
Related Terms
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