Imagine you are a pilot flying over the Andes Mountains in Peru, navigating toward a remote private airstrip. Accurate navigation data is essential for a safe landing, and the airport’s ICAO code becomes indispensable. So, what is the ICAO code for Shiringayoc/Hacienda Mejia Airport?
This article reveals the answer and explores the broader significance of ICAO codes in aviation.
Shiringayoc/Hacienda Mejia Airport: Key Details
Shiringayoc/Hacienda Mejia Airport, also known as Shiringayoc/Hacienda Mejia Airstrip, is a small airport located in Peru. It serves the local community and the nearby Hacienda Mejia estate. Below are its essential details:
- IATA code: SYC
- ICAO code: SPOV
- Name: Shiringayoc/Hacienda Mejia Airport
- Country: Peru
- Geographic coordinates: Latitude 11° 53' 60.00" S, Longitude 69° 10' 1.20" W
Why ICAO Codes Matter
ICAO codes are four-letter identifiers assigned by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to airports worldwide. These standardized codes provide pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation professionals with a clear and consistent way to identify airports. Unlike IATA codes—which are primarily used for passenger bookings and baggage tags—ICAO codes are critical for flight operations and navigation.
ICAO codes serve several vital functions:
- Flight planning: Pilots use ICAO codes to specify departure and arrival airports in flight plans.
- Air traffic control: Controllers rely on ICAO codes to track and manage aircraft movements.
- Navigation systems: GPS and other navigation tools use ICAO codes to pinpoint airport locations.
- Aviation databases: These codes help organize and retrieve airport information efficiently.
How ICAO Codes Are Structured
ICAO codes typically follow a logical pattern. The first letter often denotes the region or country—for example, codes starting with "S" are common in South America. The second letter usually represents a specific area within that region or country. The final two letters are unique identifiers for individual airports.
Finding ICAO Codes
There are several ways to locate an airport’s ICAO code:
- Online databases: Websites dedicated to aviation codes provide searchable listings.
- Aeronautical charts: These maps include ICAO codes alongside other critical navigation data.
- Aviation publications: Manuals and guides often compile airport codes for reference.
Understanding the ICAO code SPOV for Shiringayoc/Hacienda Mejia Airport—and the broader role of these codes in aviation—is essential for pilots, industry professionals, and aviation enthusiasts alike.