Have you ever found yourself confused by the alphabet soup of airport codes when booking flights or checking flight information? Those obscure codes for lesser-known airports can be particularly puzzling. Today we'll explore Beverly Municipal Airport in Massachusetts and its identifier KBVY to help prepare for your future travels.
About Beverly Municipal Airport
Located in Essex County, Massachusetts, approximately 23 miles northeast of downtown Boston, Beverly Municipal Airport plays a significant role in regional aviation despite its modest size. The facility primarily serves general aviation and corporate aircraft.
The airport features a single 5,000-foot runway (1,524 meters) capable of accommodating various small aircraft including private planes, business jets, and some commuter aircraft. Comprehensive navigation equipment and safety facilities ensure operational security.
The Significance of Airport Codes
In aviation, airport codes serve as unique identifiers assigned by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to facilitate communication between airlines, air traffic control, and passengers.
- IATA codes: Three-letter abbreviations typically derived from airport names (e.g., BOS for Boston Logan International Airport)
- ICAO codes: Four-letter designations providing precise location information, primarily used for pilot-ATC communication (e.g., KBOS for Boston Logan, where "K" indicates U.S. location)
- FAA codes: U.S.-specific identifiers from the Federal Aviation Administration, often matching IATA codes
Breaking Down KBVY
Beverly Municipal Airport's identifiers:
- IATA: BVY
- ICAO: KBVY
- FAA: BVY
The "BVY" abbreviation clearly references Beverly, while the "K" prefix in the ICAO code denotes its U.S. location.
Why Airport Codes Matter
Understanding these identifiers proves essential for:
- Flight bookings: Accurate code entry prevents reservation errors
- Flight tracking: Enables quick status checks through travel apps
- Baggage handling: Correct codes ensure proper luggage routing
- Flight planning: Pilots use ICAO codes for navigation
- Air traffic control: Controllers track aircraft using these identifiers
Facilities and Services
While modest in scale, Beverly Municipal Airport offers several amenities:
- Multiple flight schools offering training programs
- Aircraft rental services
- Professional maintenance providers
- Terminal with basic amenities
- Complimentary parking
Transportation Options
Travelers can reach the airport via:
- Car: Approximately 30-45 minutes from Boston via Route 1 and I-95
- Taxi: $80-$100 from Logan International Airport
- Public transit: MBTA Commuter Rail to Beverly Station with connecting ground transportation
Local Attractions
Beverly's North Shore location offers numerous points of interest:
- Beverly Historical Society
- John Balch House (1638 structure)
- North Shore Music Theatre
- Coastal beaches including Lynch Park
Nearby destinations like Salem and Gloucester make convenient day trips.