How do I read an IATA code?

IATA assigns a unique two-character code (Airline Designator Code) to all airlines – even the ones that aren't IATA members. It consists of 2 letters or a letter and a digit. For example, AA stands for American Airlines, KL for KLM, 7S for Ryan Air, etc.



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This 8-digit IATA Code is used as the industry-wide standard identification by suppliers such as hotel & resort chains, cruise lines, car rental companies, theme parks, rail companies to simplify reservations, sales activities and commission distribution.

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According to Wikipedia, IATA has several different types of code that can be from one to four characters, but airport codes specifically are always three based on all the sources I mentioned.

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Both IATA and ICAO are international organizations that oversee civil aviation operations. However, the IATA generally supports the airline industry, while the ICAO provides global standards for air transport operations. Furthermore, the IATA uses a different list of airport codes that passengers can easily relate to.

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Unfortunately it is true that two airlines can have the same IATA code. The airlines are generally in different regions. But it does happen since there are only a limited number of two-letter codes available.

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Pilots, as well as air controllers, use the ICAO code in their day to day as there are never two identical ICAO codes. Additionally, once you know how the code is made up, you can find out, without a doubt, which airport youre flying to.

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According to Airfarewatchdog, in the 1930s, it was important to know whether or not an airport had a weather/radio station located on its premises, for safety and landing reasons. If it did, the letter Y for yes was added in front of the existing radio call sign.

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IATA's location identifiers are 3-letter codes assigned to airports that have commercial activity. These codes can also be given to bus stations, heliports, rail stations, and ferry terminals if they are involved in intermodal airline travel.

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In order to book from IATA, the travel agent must get registered with IATA as an IATA travel agent. However, it is also possible to buy and sell tickets without getting affiliated with IATA. All travel agents who do so are known as non-IATA/independent travel agents.

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The IATA updates its regulations every two years. Subsequently, you will need to renew your certification every two years for air shipments and every three years for ground shipments. Failing to renew your IATA certification can result in airlines rejecting your shipments or hefty fines.

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Cities with multiple commercial airports. In large metropolitan areas, airport codes are often named after the airport itself instead of the city it serves, while another code is reserved which refers to the city itself which can be used to search for flights to any of its airports.

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