Planning a trip to Manakara, Madagascar, but confused by the alphabet soup of airport codes? This guide demystifies the critical identifiers for Manakara Airport (WVK/FMSK) and provides practical information to streamline your travel preparations.
Airport Overview: Location and Identification
Manakara Airport serves as the primary aerial gateway to southeastern Madagascar’s coastal city of Manakara. Like all airports, it operates under standardized codes assigned by international aviation bodies:
- IATA Code: WVK (used for passenger-facing operations like ticketing and baggage)
- ICAO Code: FMSK (employed in flight operations and air traffic control)
The airport’s precise geographical coordinates are:
- Latitude: 22° 7' 10.92" S
- Longitude: 48° 1' 18.13" E
These coordinates enable accurate navigation for pilots and digital mapping systems.
Decoding the Systems: IATA vs. ICAO
The dual coding system reflects aviation’s operational and commercial dimensions:
- IATA (International Air Transport Association): A trade association focused on airline commerce. Its three-letter codes simplify passenger processes like reservations and boarding passes.
- ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization): A UN agency regulating global flight standards. Its four-letter codes facilitate technical operations such as flight plans and radar tracking.
While WVK appears on your luggage tags, FMSK guides air traffic controllers directing your aircraft.
Key Airport Details
Supplemental information for travelers:
- Official Name: Manakara Airport
- Country: Madagascar
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is Manakara Airport’s code?
IATA: WVK; ICAO: FMSK -
Where is the airport located?
Southeastern Madagascar, coastal Manakara region
Travel Recommendations
Verify flight bookings using the correct IATA code (WVK) and confirm Madagascar’s entry requirements before departure. For aviation professionals, these codes enable network analysis—tracking code usage patterns can reveal airline route strategies and regional connectivity trends.