An airport code is important for the smooth running of each airdrome. Each airport usually has both an IATA code and an ICAO code. The IATA code is used more for the public, and with travel details. The IACO code is used more in the identifying of each airport for such things as flight plans and international airports.

The IATA abbreviation stands for the International Air Transport Association. The airport codes distributed by the IATA are used by airports everywhere, especially to mark luggage and find airline seats. The codes are issued by the IATA headquarters in Montreal, and are published biannually in the IATA coding directory. After being issued, all airports are given a unique three letter cryptogram.

Codes that are defunct for any reason may be used again at a later date for some other airport, after a suitable time period has passed. These codes are highly useful for airport security, air cargo tracking, and for international airport transfers. If an airport does not have their own code because they are too small, then they are given a Location Identifier instead. The IATA also issues codes for railways.

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