In aviation data analysis, airports function as coordinate points on a global map, with ICAO codes serving as their unique identifiers. Among the world's busiest airports, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport stands out as a crucial hub. But what exactly is its ICAO code, and how can we interpret the key operational data associated with this major transportation center?
The ICAO Code: KDFW
The four-letter code KDFW serves as Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport's official designation within the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) system. This standardized identifier plays a critical role in flight planning, air traffic control communications, and aviation documentation worldwide. The "K" prefix indicates the airport's location within the contiguous United States, while "DFW" represents the specific facility.
It's important to distinguish this from the airport's IATA code (DFW), which is primarily used for passenger-facing operations such as baggage handling and ticket reservations.
Key Operational Data
Beyond its ICAO designation, several data points form the airport's operational profile:
- IATA Code: DFW
- FAA Code: DFW
- Full Name: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
- Country: United States
- Location: Texas, between Dallas and Fort Worth
- Elevation: 607 feet (approximately 185 meters)
- Geographic Coordinates: 32° 53' 48.58" N, 97° 2' 16.79" W
Analytical Applications
These fundamental metrics create what aviation professionals call the airport's "data fingerprint" - essential information that supports various analytical applications:
Elevation data directly impacts aircraft performance calculations for takeoffs and landings, while precise coordinates enable accurate navigation and flight path optimization. When combined with traffic statistics, these elements allow analysts to assess runway capacity, optimize scheduling, and forecast passenger volumes.
The ICAO code KDFW represents more than just an identifier - it serves as the critical link connecting this major hub to global aviation networks. Through careful analysis of these standardized codes and their associated data, aviation professionals gain valuable insights that support operational decisions across the industry.