Imagine an aviation analyst needing to quickly grasp the key operational parameters of Doha International Airport (DIA/OTBD) for route optimization or risk assessment. With time constraints and data scattered across multiple sources, this article provides a structured data overview to facilitate rapid decision-making.
1. Airport Profile: Core Operational Data
Doha International Airport, with IATA code DIA and ICAO code OTBD, serves as an important aviation hub in Qatar. While Hamad International Airport has replaced it as the primary facility, Doha International continues to play a significant role in specific flight operations and charter services. Key operational data includes:
- Airport Name: Doha International Airport
- Country/Region: Qatar
- Elevation: 35 feet (approximately 11 meters) above sea level
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Geographic Coordinates:
- Latitude: 25° 15' 39.96" N
- Longitude: 51° 33' 54.37" E
2. Geographic Location and Strategic Importance
Doha International Airport's position on Qatar's eastern coast, near the city center, establishes it as a crucial connection point between East and West. While Hamad International Airport has absorbed most passenger and cargo traffic, Doha International maintains operational significance in specific sectors. Its precise coordinates are essential for flight planning, navigation system calibration, and regional development planning.
The latitude and longitude data represent more than just map coordinates—they form the foundation for aviation operations, urban planning, and emergency response protocols.
3. The Critical Role of Elevation
The airport's elevation of 35 feet significantly impacts aircraft performance during takeoff and landing. Elevation affects air density, which in turn influences lift, thrust, and engine performance. While 35 feet represents relatively low elevation, it remains a necessary consideration in flight planning and performance calculations. Elevation also correlates with meteorological conditions including temperature, humidity, and wind patterns—all critical factors for flight safety.
4. IATA and ICAO Codes: Aviation's Identification System
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) assign unique codes to airports worldwide to streamline aviation communication, flight scheduling, and baggage handling. DIA serves as Doha International's IATA code, primarily used for passenger bookings and baggage tags. OTBD is its ICAO code, mainly employed by pilots, air traffic controllers, and airlines for flight planning and navigation. These standardized codes ensure accuracy and efficiency in global aviation operations.
5. The Analyst's Perspective: Operational Intelligence Value
For data analysts, these fundamental airport metrics contain substantial value:
- Route Planning: Combining geographic location, elevation, and runway length enables assessment of aircraft suitability and route optimization to reduce fuel consumption.
- Capacity Analysis: Understanding runway capacity, gate availability, and passenger throughput helps predict potential bottlenecks.
- Risk Assessment: Historical data combined with weather patterns and surrounding environment allows evaluation of safety risks like low visibility or bird strikes.
- Commercial Opportunities: Analysis of passenger flow and cargo volume can reveal potential for new retail, dining, or logistics services.
6. Data Limitations and Future Prospects
This overview presents static data that may not reflect current operational status. For accurate, comprehensive information, analysts should consult official sources including Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), Airport Operations Manuals (AOMs), and real-time flight tracking data. Emerging aviation technologies will increasingly rely on data-driven decision making, with artificial intelligence enabling predictive analysis for flight delays, resource allocation, and operational efficiency.
7. Beyond Basic Metrics: Extracting Additional Value
Doha International Airport's historical context provides additional analytical dimensions. Studying its role in Qatar's aviation development reveals national aviation strategy. Flight data analysis shows airline market share and regional operations. Comparative analysis with Hamad International Airport assesses the impact of new infrastructure, offering insights for other airport modernization projects.
8. Conclusion: Data-Driven Aviation Future
The fundamental data points of Doha International Airport—from geographic coordinates to elevation and identification codes—serve as more than simple identifiers. They form the foundation for aviation operations, urban development, and commercial strategy. Through careful analysis, these metrics provide valuable insights into airport operations, aviation industry trends, and regional economic patterns. In our data-driven era, mastery of this information enables better understanding of aviation complexity and supports informed decision-making.