Everything Everywhere Daily Airport Codes
May 18, 2021
Discover the quirky origins of three-letter airport codes, including the intriguing reasons behind LAX and IAD. Uncover how these codes evolved from telegraph systems to internationally recognized identifiers. Dive into the unique Canadian airport codes that often defy logic. With amusing anecdotes and historical references, learn about the naming conventions that have shaped our air travel experience. This journey through the skies of nomenclature is sure to surprise any frequent flyer!
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Origins of Airport Codes
- Airport codes originated from two-letter National Weather Service codes used for telegraphing weather reports at military bases.
- Expanding to three-letter codes solved limitations in coverage and adapted for global commercial aviation use.
Simple City-Based Codes
- Many airport codes correspond directly to the first three letters of their city names, making them easy to recognize.
- Examples include HOU for Houston and AMS for Amsterdam, reflecting straightforward naming logic.
X Added to Two-Letter Codes
- Some airport codes add an X to original two-letter weather service identifiers to form three-letter codes.
- Examples are LAX for Los Angeles and PHX for Phoenix, showing how historical codes influenced naming.
