Have you ever searched for "John F. Kennedy Airport" when booking flights, only to encounter unfamiliar airport codes that don't match your expectations? The confusion stems from two similarly named but distinctly different airports in the United States.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
The primary and most well-known facility is New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, bearing the IATA code JFK . This major international hub handles millions of passengers annually and serves as a key gateway to the United States.
John F. Kennedy Memorial Airport (ASX)
The IATA code ASX belongs to John F. Kennedy Memorial Airport, a small regional facility in Ashland, Wisconsin. This airport primarily serves general aviation and local traffic, with no operational connection to its New York namesake.
Key Differences
| Feature | JFK International Airport | ASX Memorial Airport |
|---|---|---|
| IATA Code | JFK | ASX |
| Location | New York City | Ashland, Wisconsin |
| Elevation | 13 feet | 827 feet |
| Coordinates | 40°38'23"N 73°46'44"W | 46°32'55"N 90°55'08"W |
| Primary Function | International commercial aviation | General aviation |
Why the Similar Names?
The shared nomenclature honors President John F. Kennedy, whose name has been bestowed upon numerous public facilities across the United States. The Wisconsin airport's memorial designation reflects this commemorative tradition.
Preventing Travel Confusion
Travelers can avoid booking errors by:
- Verifying airport codes during flight searches
- Confirming complete airport names
- Checking geographic locations
- Using reputable booking platforms
Understanding these distinctions ensures smoother travel planning and prevents potential itinerary disruptions caused by airport code confusion.