Airport Codes in the US: A Quick Guide for Travelers

Airport codes are an essential part of travel, helping to identify airports across the United States and the rest of the world. These three-letter codes, assigned by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), serve as unique identifiers for each airport, simplifying communication and logistics among airlines, airports, and travelers. In the United States, there are hundreds of airports with unique codes that vary from state to state.

Understanding airport codes may seem daunting at first, but a closer look reveals patterns and logic behind their creation. For instance, many US airport codes are derived from the city names they serve, while others may use historical or geographical references. Familiarizing oneself with some of the most famous and commonly used airport codes can be beneficial for anyone planning to travel within or to the United States.

Key Takeaways

• Airport codes are unique three-letter identifiers assigned by the IATA for airports across the world, including the United States
• These codes simplify communication and logistics among airlines, airports, and travelers, making them an essential aspect of travel
• Many US airport codes are derived from city names, historical references, or geographical locations

Understanding Airport Codes

Airport codes are alphanumeric codes used to identify airports across the world. They provide a unique identifier, making it easier for air traffic controllers, pilots, and travelers to manage and understand flight-related information. There are two primary types of airport codes in the United States: IATA codes and FAA codes.

IATA Codes

IATA codes are assigned by the International Air Transport Association and are widely recognized across the aviation industry, particularly for airline travel. These codes are typically three letters long and are used in various aviation processes, such as flight schedules, bookings, boarding passes, flight status, and baggage tags. Examples of IATA codes for some popular US airports are LAX (Los Angeles International Airport), JFK (John F. Kennedy International Airport), and ORD (O’Hare International Airport) source.

FAA Codes

In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assigns their own three-letter airport codes, which are commonly referred to as Location Identifiers. Although many of these codes match the IATA codes, some may differ. These identifiers are mainly used for air traffic control communication and are important for ensuring the proper management of air traffic within the country source.

Here’s a brief comparison of IATA codes and FAA codes for some airports in the United States:

US Airport Codes by State

In this section, we’ll take a look at the airport codes for some of the states in the US. These codes are part of a standard system called the International Air Transport Association (IATA) code, which assigns unique three-letter codes to airports worldwide. The IATA code system ensures seamless communication and coordination among air travel stakeholders.

Alaska

Alaska, the largest state in the US, has numerous airports to support its vast area and unique geography. Some notable airports in the state include:

• Adak Island: ADK (Adak Airport)
• Anchorage: ANC (Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport)
• Fairbanks: FAI (Fairbanks International Airport)
• Juneau: JNU (Juneau International Airport)

Alabama

In the southern region of the US, Alabama has several airports accommodating both local and international travel. Key airports in the state are:

• Birmingham: BHM (Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport)
• Dothan: DHN (Dothan Regional Airport)
• Huntsville: HSV (Huntsville International Airport)
• Mobile: MOB (Mobile Regional Airport)

Arizona

Arizona, known for its desert climate and natural landmarks, has a number of airports servicing its cities. Some of the primary airports include:

• Phoenix: PHX (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport)
• Tucson: TUS (Tucson International Airport)
• Mesa: AZA (Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport)
• Flagstaff: FLG (Flagstaff Pulliam Airport)

Arkansas

The Natural State, Arkansas, features a network of airports that connect its cities and towns. Main airports include:

• Little Rock: LIT (Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport)
• Fayetteville: XNA (Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport)
• Fort Smith: FSM (Fort Smith Regional Airport)
• Texarkana: TXK (Texarkana Regional Airport)

California

As the most populous state in the US, California hosts numerous airports for its vast and diverse population. Major airports in the state are:

• Los Angeles: LAX (Los Angeles International Airport)
• San Francisco: SFO (San Francisco International Airport)
• San Diego: SAN (San Diego International Airport)
• Sacramento: SMF (Sacramento International Airport)

Colorado

Located in the western part of the nation, Colorado is home to several airports that cater to both leisure and business travelers. Key airports include:

• Denver: DEN (Denver International Airport)
• Colorado Springs: COS (Colorado Springs Airport)
• Aspen: ASE (Aspen/Pitkin County Airport)
• Eagle: EGE (Eagle County Regional Airport)

Connecticut

Connecticut, a state on the northeastern coast of the US, offers a range of airports across its relatively compact area. Main airports in the state are:

• Hartford: BDL (Bradley International Airport)
• New Haven: HVN (Tweed New Haven Airport)
• Bridgeport: BDR (Sikorsky Memorial Airport)

Delaware

While it may be the second smallest state in the US, Delaware offers a selection of airports to accommodate air travel. The Wilmington Airport (ILG) is the primary airport in the state, serving both domestic and international flights.

Florida

As a popular vacation destination, Florida has numerous airports to meet the high demand for tourism and commerce. Primary airports in the state include:

• Miami: MIA (Miami International Airport)
• Orlando: MCO (Orlando International Airport)
• Tampa: TPA (Tampa International Airport)
• Fort Lauderdale: FLL (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport)

Famous US Airport Codes

In this section, we will explore some famous US airport codes, focusing on Alaska, California, and Arizona airports. These airports are known for their distinct and unique IATA codes as well as their remarkable services and locations.

Alaska Airports

Alaska has several airports that serve its residents and tourists. Some of the most well-known airports in this state include:

• Anchorage International Airport (ANC): Located in Anchorage, ANC is the largest airport in Alaska. It handles both domestic and international flights and is renowned for its picturesque surroundings.
• Fairbanks International Airport (FAI): FAI is situated in Fairbanks and serves as a major gateway to interior Alaska. It provides commercial, military, and general aviation services to the region.

Other notable Alaska airports include:

• Juneau International Airport (JNU): Located in the state’s capital, Juneau
• Bethel Airport (BET): Found in the western part of the state in the city of Bethel
• Eek Airport (EEK): A small airfield located in the village of Eek
• Auke Bay Seaplane Base (AUK): A small seaplane base in Auke Bay, near Juneau

California Airports

California hosts numerous airports, each with their unique IATA codes. Some popular ones include:

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): LAX is one of the busiest airports in the US, serving millions of passengers each year.
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO): SFO is another major airport in California, offering flights across the globe.

Arizona Airports

Arizona is home to several airports that cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. A couple of well-known ones are:

• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): PHX ranks as one of the busiest airports in the US, providing connections to domestic and international destinations.
• Tucson International Airport (TUS): TUS is located in southern Arizona and primarily serves the city of Tucson.

These airport codes are essential for smooth and efficient aviation operations and contribute to making your travel experience more enjoyable.

Popular Travel Destinations

Hollywood, California

Hollywood is a famous neighborhood in Los Angeles, California, known for its vibrant entertainment scene, cultural landmarks, and rich history in the film industry. Visitors can explore the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, take a tour of famous film studios, and even catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities. The nearby Hollywood Sign is a must-see, serving as a symbol of the American entertainment industry.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is a city that never sleeps, offering a dazzling array of entertainment options, from casinos to world-class shows and dining experiences. The famous Las Vegas Strip is home to luxurious hotels and casinos, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking excitement and adventure. Additionally, the nearby Red Rock Canyon provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing.

Phoenix, Arizona

Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix serves as a hub for exploring the natural beauty of Arizona. This city offers a diverse range of activities, from museums and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The Desert Botanical Garden is a popular attraction, showcasing the unique flora and fauna of the region.

Manhattan, New York

Manhattan, the iconic borough of New York City, is home to some of the most famous landmarks and attractions in the world. Visitors can explore Central Park, visit world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Times Square. The Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty are must-see attractions, and the city’s diverse culinary scene offers something for everyone.

Other Airport Codes in North America

In addition to the numerous airport codes found across the United States, North America is also home to other important international airport codes. These include airports in countries like Mexico and smaller nations such as El Salvador (represented by the IATA code, ELI).

Mexico boasts a vast network of airports, connecting its major cities and tourist destinations to the rest of the world. For instance, Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) serves as the primary hub for both domestic and international flights. Similarly, Cancun International Airport (CUN) is a bustling gateway for travelers heading to the famous beach resorts in the region.

El Salvador, on the other hand, has one primary international airport: Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez International Airport (SAL). Located near the capital city of San Salvador, this airport handles flights to and from various destinations across Central and North America.

When traveling in North America, it’s useful to familiarize yourself with the airport codes of major cities and popular destinations in the region. Below is a list of some noteworthy airports in Mexico and El Salvador, along with their IATA codes:

• Mexico City, Mexico (MEX)
• Cancun, Mexico (CUN)
• Guadalajara, Mexico (GDL)
• Monterrey, Mexico (MTY)
• San Salvador, El Salvador (SAL)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of 3-letter airport codes?

3-letter airport codes serve as unique identifiers for airports around the world. These codes are primarily used for operational purposes, such as ticketing, baggage handling, and flight planning. They also provide convenience, allowing passengers and airport staff to quickly identify a specific airport.

How can I find a specific US airport code?

To find a specific US airport code, you can refer to official directories, like the FAA’s Location Identifier database, or use online resources like Air Charter Advisors, which provide a comprehensive list of airport codes in the US.

Are international airport codes different from US codes?

Yes, international airport codes are different from US codes. While US airport codes typically utilize the three-letter IATA system, international airports use a combination of the four-letter ICAO system and the IATA system. The ICAO codes are mainly used for air traffic control and weather reporting, while IATA codes are more commonly used for passenger purposes, such as ticketing and baggage handling.

Can two US airports share the same code?

No, two US airports cannot share the same code. Each airport has a unique three-letter code to ensure that there’s no confusion during travel or operational processes.

Is there a list of US airport codes available online?

Yes, there is a list of US airport codes available online. You may consult the FAA’s Location Identifier database or webpages like Stratos Jet Charters that have compiled lists of US airport codes for your convenience.

What are some common airport codes in the US?

Some common airport codes in the US include LAX for Los Angeles International, ATL for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, JFK for John F. Kennedy International in New York, ORD for Chicago O’Hare International, and MIA for Miami International Airport. These codes help with identifying the airports quickly and efficiently.