In the realm of aviation data analysis, every code carries profound meaning. This article examines the Akron-Canton Regional Airport through its identifiers—the IATA code CAK and ICAO code KCAK—revealing how these simple letter combinations serve as vital links in global air transportation.
I. CAK: The Airport's Commercial Identity
Airport codes function as unique identifiers within global aviation systems. The Akron-Canton Regional Airport's CAK designation, assigned by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), facilitates passenger operations including ticket booking, baggage handling, and flight information displays. Within the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) similarly recognizes CAK as the airport's official identifier.
II. KCAK: Precision in Professional Aviation
Distinct from its IATA counterpart, the ICAO code KCAK serves specialized aviation purposes. The International Civil Aviation Organization allocates these four-letter codes primarily for flight planning and air traffic control. The initial "K" denotes U.S. territory, while "CAK" maintains consistency with the IATA designation, ensuring operational clarity for pilots and controllers.
III. Geographic Data: Coordinates and Elevation
Located between Akron and Canton, Ohio, the airport's precise coordinates are 40° 54' 57.90" N latitude and 81° 26' 31.90" W longitude, with an elevation of 1,228 feet (374 meters). These parameters hold critical importance for:
- Navigation: Latitude and longitude establish the airport's global position, enabling accurate route planning and distance calculations.
- Performance Calculations: Elevation directly impacts aircraft performance, requiring pilots to adjust takeoff and landing parameters based on atmospheric conditions.
- Meteorological Analysis: Altitude influences local weather patterns and forecasting models.
IV. Aeronautical Documentation
Standardized charts and procedures govern airport operations:
- Airport Diagrams: Visual references detailing runway configurations, taxiways, aprons, and navigational aids.
- Flight Procedures: Published protocols including Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs), Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs), and Instrument Approach Procedures (IAPs) that ensure safe and orderly air traffic flow.
V. Aviation Data Applications
The CAK identifier serves as a gateway to extensive aviation datasets:
- Flight Operations: Historical and real-time flight tracking for analyzing traffic patterns and operational efficiency.
- Passenger and Cargo Metrics: Volume statistics that measure economic impact and infrastructure demands.
- Performance Analytics: Delay causation studies and safety incident tracking to enhance operational protocols.
VI. Infrastructure Analysis
A comprehensive understanding of airport facilities includes:
- Runway Systems: Dimensions, surface composition, and orientation that determine operational capabilities.
- Taxiway Networks: Layout efficiency that affects ground movement and turnaround times.
- Apron Areas: Parking configurations that influence aircraft handling capacity.
- Navigation Infrastructure: Instrument landing systems and radio aids that support precision approaches.
VII. Common Inquiries
Frequent questions regarding the airport's identifiers include:
- Distinctions between IATA (CAK) and ICAO (KCAK) codes
- Geographic service area of the Akron-Canton facility
- Operational characteristics derived from elevation data
Through this examination of a seemingly simple three-letter code, we uncover the sophisticated systems that maintain global aviation connectivity. The CAK identifier exemplifies how standardized data points facilitate everything from passenger travel to complex air traffic management, demonstrating the intricate infrastructure supporting modern air transportation.