Imagine you're a pilot preparing to fly to Fort Simpson Airport in Canada's Northwest Territories. Before takeoff, you need the precise airport identifier to input into your flight management system, ensuring accurate navigation. The ICAO code serves as an airport's unique identifier, crucial for global aviation communication and navigation. So what is Fort Simpson Airport's ICAO code, and how does it impact flight planning?
Fort Simpson Airport ICAO Code: CYFS
The ICAO code for Fort Simpson Airport is CYFS . This four-letter designation, assigned by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), distinguishes the airport for air traffic control, flight planning, and aviation communications. Unlike IATA codes (typically used for passenger baggage tags and bookings), ICAO codes primarily serve pilots and air traffic controllers.
Key Airport Information
Beyond the ICAO code, essential details about Fort Simpson Airport include:
- IATA code: YFS
- Airport name: Fort Simpson Airport
- Country: Canada
- Elevation: 555 feet (approximately 169 meters)
- Geographic coordinates: 61°45'36.72"N, 121°14'13.20"W
This information proves vital for flight planning. Elevation affects aircraft takeoff and landing performance, while coordinates precisely locate the airport in navigation systems.
Operational Applications of ICAO Codes
ICAO codes serve multiple critical functions in aviation operations:
- Flight planning: Pilots must specify departure and destination airports using ICAO codes when filing flight plans, enabling air traffic control to accurately track routes.
- ATC communications: Pilots and controllers reference airports, navigation aids, and waypoints using ICAO codes to streamline communication and minimize misunderstandings.
- Navigation databases: Aircraft systems store airport data indexed by ICAO codes, allowing pilots quick access to runway specifications, approach procedures, and other operational details.
- Weather reporting: Meteorological reports (METAR) and forecasts (TAF) incorporate ICAO codes to identify relevant airports.
Navigation Data for Fort Simpson Airport
Safe operations into Fort Simpson Airport require current navigation information including:
- Aeronautical charts: Detailed diagrams of runways, taxiways, aprons, obstacles, and navigation aids essential for approach and landing.
- Approach procedures: Standardized routes from cruise altitude to landing, potentially including ILS, VOR, or GPS approaches depending on weather and aircraft capabilities.
- Departure procedures: Published routes ensuring safe egress from the airport environment.
- Radio frequencies: Current ATC, ATIS, and other operational frequencies for communication and information.
Safety Considerations
Pilots should account for several operational factors when flying to Fort Simpson:
- Weather patterns: The Northwest Territories experience rapid meteorological changes requiring thorough preflight briefing.
- Terrain: Complex surrounding topography necessitates awareness and appropriate altitude management.
- Wildlife: Potential bird and mammal activity near the airport requires vigilance for collision avoidance.
- Fuel management: Adequate reserves must account for potential delays or diversions.
Additional Resources
Pilots may consult these official references for Fort Simpson Airport information:
- Canada Flight Supplement (CFS) - Comprehensive airport data including procedures and frequencies
- NOTAMs - Temporary notices regarding airport conditions or restrictions
- Digital flight planning tools - Current weather and navigation data integration
The ICAO code CYFS serves as the fundamental identifier for Fort Simpson Airport across all aviation systems. Proper understanding and application of this code, combined with current operational data and safety awareness, enable efficient and secure flight operations to this Northwest Territories facility.