Imagine an international pilot planning a flight route to Piura, a northern city in Peru. To ensure flight safety, precise airport codes must be entered into the navigation system. What, then, is Piura Airport's official identifier in global aviation?
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) code for Piura Airport, along with key operational data, offering accurate and comprehensive reference information for pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and industry professionals.
Piura Airport Overview
Officially named "FAP Captain Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport," Piura Airport serves the strategically important northern Peruvian city of Piura. The airport plays a vital role in domestic air transport, connecting Piura with other major Peruvian cities while also handling limited international flights.
ICAO Code: SPUR
Piura Airport's ICAO code is SPUR . The ICAO code is a four-letter designation assigned by the International Civil Aviation Organization to airports worldwide, used for flight planning, air traffic control, and other aviation communications. Understanding an airport's ICAO code is crucial for ensuring flight safety and operational efficiency. Compared to the three-letter IATA code (PIU in this case), ICAO codes are more rigorous and maintain global uniqueness.
Key Operational Data
Beyond the ICAO code, here are essential operational details for Piura Airport:
- IATA Code: PIU
- Country: Peru
- Elevation: 120 feet (approximately 37 meters) above sea level
- Geographic Coordinates: Latitude 5° 12' 20.70" S, Longitude 80° 36' 59.05" W
The Significance of ICAO Codes
ICAO codes serve critical functions in aviation, primarily in these areas:
- Flight Planning: Pilots must use ICAO codes to specify departure and destination airports in flight plans, ensuring accuracy and preventing confusion.
- Air Traffic Control: Controllers utilize ICAO codes to identify and track aircraft, enabling effective airspace management and safety.
- Aviation Communications: The codes facilitate clear transmission of meteorological reports, navigation warnings, and other critical information.
- Databases and Systems: Most aviation databases and systems rely on ICAO codes for efficient storage and retrieval of airport information.
Geographic Location and Strategic Importance
Located in northwestern Peru, Piura Airport occupies a geographically advantageous position as a regional hub connecting domestic and international destinations. Its strategic value manifests in several ways:
- Economic Development: The airport provides critical infrastructure supporting local commerce, tourism, and agricultural exports.
- Humanitarian Assistance: During emergencies, the airport serves as a logistical base for relief operations in northern Peru.
- Market Connectivity: Domestic and international flights link local producers with broader markets, enhancing economic competitiveness.
Airport Facilities and Services
To accommodate growing demand, Piura Airport continues upgrading its infrastructure and services, currently offering:
- A single runway capable of handling various aircraft types
- A terminal building with passenger check-in, security screening, and baggage services
- Apron space for aircraft parking and maintenance
- Advanced navigation equipment ensuring safe operations
- Ancillary services including dining, retail, and ground transportation
Future Development Trends
With Peru's economic growth driving increased air travel demand, Piura Airport faces expansion opportunities. Potential developments include:
- Infrastructure upgrades to increase capacity
- New international routes connecting Piura with additional global destinations
- Sustainability initiatives balancing operational growth with environmental responsibility
Conclusion
Understanding Piura Airport's ICAO code (SPUR) and operational parameters proves essential for aviation professionals and enthusiasts alike. This information not only ensures flight safety and efficiency but also illuminates the airport's role within Peru's transportation network.