Imagine planning a trip to Geraldton in Western Australia, only to find yourself bewildered by a jumble of airport codes during flight bookings. What do the identifiers GET and YGEL represent, and how are they connected? This analysis provides a data-driven perspective on Geraldton Airport's coding system, offering clear professional insights to simplify travel planning.
Identifying Geraldton Airport
Located in the picturesque coastal city of Geraldton, Western Australia, this regional airport serves as a vital transportation hub connecting the Mid West region with domestic destinations. Its strategic position makes it crucial for both passenger travel and regional economic activity.
Airport Code Systems Explained
Geraldton Airport operates with two distinct coding systems that serve different operational purposes:
- IATA Code: GET - The three-letter designation assigned by the International Air Transport Association, primarily used for passenger-facing services including ticketing, baggage handling, and itinerary documentation.
- ICAO Code: YGEL - The four-letter identifier from the International Civil Aviation Organization, employed for air traffic control, flight planning, and operational communications between pilots and aviation authorities.
This dual-coding system reflects the airport's dual role: GET facilitates passenger logistics, while YGEL ensures aviation safety and navigation precision.
Geospatial and Operational Data
Additional technical specifications enhance our understanding of the airport's operations:
- Geographic Coordinates: 28° 47' 45.96" S, 114° 42' 25.20" E - precise location data critical for navigation systems and geographic information databases.
- Elevation: 121 feet (37 meters) above sea level - an important factor for aircraft performance calculations.
- Runway Configuration: Single runway measuring 1,950 meters - accommodating regional jets and smaller aircraft.
Analytical Applications
From a data analysis perspective, Geraldton Airport's information presents multiple research opportunities:
- Transportation Analytics: Flight frequency and passenger volume data can reveal travel patterns and seasonal demand fluctuations.
- Economic Impact Studies: Cargo statistics and visitor numbers help assess the airport's regional economic contribution.
- Infrastructure Planning: Geographic data combined with demographic trends informs capacity expansion decisions.
These airport codes represent more than mere identifiers - they form part of a complex global aviation data ecosystem. For travelers, understanding the distinction between GET and YGEL simplifies navigation through booking systems. For aviation professionals and analysts, these codes serve as gateways to operational insights and transportation research.