Airport Codes: Everything You Need To Know

Curious about those three-letter codes that you have to rip off from your luggage after every flight? They’re called IATA location codes, and there’s a lot more to learn about them! Whether you’re flying to JFK or SUX, your ticket and bag will be assigned a specific location code.

Who chooses them, what’s their purpose, and how are they used? What about the other codes? And what in the world is up with the airport codes in Canada?

You will find the answers to all those questions, and more, in the rest of this detailed guide on airport codes!

What Are Airport Codes?

Airport codes are three-letter codes that are assigned to airports around the world. Each airport has a three-letter location code that is unique to that specific airport. It’s what you’ll see on your ticket, flight itinerary, and baggage tag when you fly to any speci