Imagine planning a trip to Capurganá, Colombia - a secluded paradise renowned for its pristine beaches and lush jungles. To arrange your travel smoothly, accurate airport information is crucial. One key detail is the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) code for Capurganá Airport. What is this code, and why does it matter?
ICAO Codes: The Universal Identifier for Airports
ICAO codes are four-letter identifiers assigned by the International Civil Aviation Organization to airports worldwide. Unlike the more passenger-facing IATA codes, ICAO codes are primarily used by pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation operations to ensure clear communication and navigation. Each airport's ICAO code serves as its unique "identification number" in global aviation systems.
The ICAO Code for Capurganá Airport: SKCA
Official records confirm that Capurganá Airport's ICAO code is SKCA . This identifier plays a vital role in flight planning, weather reports, and aeronautical charts, enabling pilots to accurately identify and locate the airport.
Capurganá Airport Overview
Capurganá Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto de Capurganá) is located in the Chocó Department of Colombia, serving the remote town of Capurganá. This small airport primarily handles domestic flights, connecting Capurganá with other Colombian cities. Given the region's isolated location and limited ground transportation options, air service is essential for both local economic activity and tourism.
Additional Key Airport Information
Beyond its ICAO code, these details complete the airport's identification:
- IATA code: CPB
- Airport name: Capurganá Airport
- Country: Colombia
- Geographic coordinates: Latitude 8° 37' 59.99" N, Longitude 77° 21' 0.00" W
These precise coordinates are critical for pilots using GPS or other navigation systems to locate the airport. Accurate geographic data helps prevent navigation errors and ensures flight safety.
The Importance of ICAO Codes in Aviation
ICAO codes serve several essential functions in global aviation operations:
- Standardization: Provides a universal system for airport identification, preventing confusion from similar names or spelling variations
- Communication: Enables clear, concise exchanges between pilots and air traffic controllers
- Navigation: Incorporated into flight plans, navigation databases, and aeronautical charts for route planning
- Data management: Used by airlines, airport authorities, and regulators to track flight operations, statistics, and safety records
Practical Applications of ICAO Codes
These identifiers are routinely used in multiple aviation contexts:
- Flight booking: While passengers typically use IATA codes, aviation professionals reference ICAO codes
- Flight planning: Mandatory for specifying departure and arrival airports in flight plans
- Weather reporting: Included in meteorological reports for airport-specific conditions
- Aviation research: Facilitates analysis of flight patterns, delays, and safety incidents
Understanding Capurganá Airport's ICAO code (SKCA) is essential for anyone involved in aviation operations related to this destination. From pilots and air traffic controllers to aviation enthusiasts, this information contributes to safe and efficient air travel. This overview provides comprehensive insight into Capurganá Airport's role within Colombia's aviation network.