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1. There’s a secret code language
Did you ever wondered about the seemingly random three-letter codes representing each airport? These are IATA (International Air Transport Association) codes, and while some are straightforward (LAX for Los Angeles), others have interesting histories. Airports don’t get to pick their codes, IATA is responsible for assigning them. Another interesting fact is that the letter X in airport codes does not mean anything. For example, LAX is a code for Los Angeles Airport, and the letter X was added in the 1940s when airport codes went from having two letters to three.
2. Landing slots are a huge business
An airport or landing slots, the specific time periods allotted for an aircraft to take off or land at an airport, are a crucial aspect of the aviation industry.
Airports, especially those in major cities, often operate at full capacity, and landing slots during peak times, such as early morning and late afternoon, are particularly desirable. These times align with business travel schedules and international connections, making them critical for airlines to maximize passenger load and profitability.
Airports charge airlines a fee for the privilege of landing on their runways, however, these fees can be super high on certain days or times. In fact, these landing slots can even be sold or traded between airlines.
3. Runway numbers are not random
Runway numbers are based on their orientation relative to magnetic north. Each runway is numbered between 01 and 36, corresponding to one-tenth of the magnetic azimuth of the runway’s heading. For example, a runway numbered 09 points east (90 degrees), while a runway numbered 27 points west (270 degrees). This system helps pilots navigate accurately, even in poor visibility.
There are lots of interesting things happening on planes too. Here are 10 things you probably didn’t know about airlines and 10 flight attendant secrets.
4. The busiest airports aren’t always the largest
You might assume the busiest airports are the largest in terms of area, but that’s not necessarily the case. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport holds the title for the busiest airport in the world by passenger numbers (with 104.7 million passengers in 2023), yet it’s not the largest by land area. According to 2023 figures, it was followed by Dubai International Airport and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
However, the world’s largest airport in terms of area size, measuring 774 square kilometres, is King Fahd International Airport, also recognized as Dammam Airport, based in Saudi Arabia.
5. Airports employ wildlife management teams
Birds and planes don’t mix well, so airports employ special wildlife management teams to keep runways clear of birds and other animals. These teams use a variety of methods including trained falcons, noise cannons, and habitat management strategies to ensure safety. Some airports even have border collies that help chase birds away.
Airports are more than just transit points; they are marvels of modern infrastructure and logistics with many hidden facts. The next time you arrive with GoOpti to an airport, take a moment to appreciate the complexity of the world around you. Just don't forget to book your transport in time.
