The upcoming Noida International Airport in Jewar has been assigned the unique three-letter code ‘DXN’ by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The ‘D’ represents Delhi, the ‘N’ signifies Noida, and the ‘X’ connects to the world at large.
About Airport Codes
Airport codes are distinctive identifiers used for airports all around the globe. These codes are vital for ensuring a smooth travel experience and are utilized in multiple contexts ranging from boarding passes to airport signage. Essentially, each airport has two distinct codes. One is assigned by the IATA and the other by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a subsidiary of the United Nations.
Significance of IATA Codes
The three-digit IATA Codes were developed in the 1960s with an aim to standardize airport identification. These codes primarily serve passenger-facing operations. They appear on tickets, boarding passes, signage, and other materials related to consumers. For instance, ‘DEL’ is the IATA code for Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and ‘BOM’ for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai.
Importance of ICAO Codes
The four-digit ICAO codes are utilized by industry professionals like pilots, air traffic controllers, and airport planners. These codes facilitate precise communication within the aviation industry. A good example would be ‘VIDP’, the ICAO code for Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.
Overview of International Air Transport Association (IATA)
IATA, founded in Havana, Cuba, in April 1945, is the trade association for the world’s airlines, embodying about 300 airlines or 83% of the total global air traffic. Its headquarters are located in Montreal, Canada.
About International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
In 1944, 54 nations converged to draft the Convention on International Civil Aviation, also referred to as the ‘Chicago Convention’. The ICAO was officially formed on April 4th, 1947. By October 1947, it became a specialized agency of the United Nations associated with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
India is one of the founder members of the ICAO, having participated in the Chicago Conference in 1944. The mission of the ICAO is to develop safe and efficient international air transport for peaceful purposes and guaranteeing that every state has a fair opportunity to operate international airlines. The headquarters of ICAO are situated in Montreal, Canada.