People who fly will be familiar with the airport codes that you often see on things like baggage tags. Those flying to Los Angeles will know that it has the code LAX, while London Heathrow is LHR for example.
Some make a lot of sense, being the first three letters of the city, such as SYD for Sydney or ATL for Atlanta. But what about other places where it doesn’t make sense?
Airport Codes Explained
Happily CGP Gray on YouTube has produced a 16 minute video explaining airport codes. It is done in a very smart, engaging and interesting manner, including some of the more unusual choices.
Anyone who has been to Canada will know all the IATA three digit codes there begin with a Y. Why is this so? The video mentions this briefly, so you will finally know how come Toronto is YYZ.
Of course, the four digit ICAO codes are also covered, as these are used professionally within the industry. Some people know these off the top of their heads, but I know I certainly don’t.
Ultimately, the main reason for the codes we all know and love is mentioned. Can you guess what it might be? It shouldn’t be too much of a surprise for frequent flyers.
Overall Thoughts
I think this 16 minute video called “The Maddening Mess of Airport Codes!” provides a great overview of how we got here. Anyone who is into aviation or takes a plane should give it a look.
Let’s hope nobody decides to reform the three digit IATA codes. Once you get to know them, they do stick in your head – on your regular routes at least!
Did you know all about airport codes? Have you visited any particularly memorable strange ones? Thank you for reading and if you have any comments or questions, please leave them below.
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Featured image by Miguel Ángel Sanz on Unsplash.
I’m in FAT right now…..first time to Fresno
Hahaha – very cool! I haven’t been to that airport myself, but I’ve certainly heard of that code! 🙂