Imagine soaring over Mali's vast landscapes, preparing to land at a small town called Yélimané. As you file your flight plan, one crucial piece of information you'll need is the airport code. What is Yélimané Airport's identifier, and what story does it tell? This article explores the significance of this West African air hub and the meaning behind its aviation codes.
Airport Overview
Yélimané Airport serves as a vital air link for this region of Mali, connecting remote communities with the broader transportation network. The airport carries two distinct identifiers essential for aviation professionals:
- Airport Name: Yélimané Airport
- IATA Code: EYL
- ICAO Code: GAYE
- Country: Mali
- Geographic Coordinates: 15° 7' 58.80" N, 10° 34' 1.20" W
The Language of Aviation Codes
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) assigns three-letter codes like EYL to simplify airport identification worldwide. Meanwhile, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) uses four-letter codes such as GAYE, particularly crucial for flight planning and air traffic control operations.
IATA codes typically derive from city or regional names, though historical factors sometimes influence assignments. ICAO codes follow a regional structure, with the first letters indicating geographic areas and subsequent characters providing unique identifiers. Understanding this coding system offers insight into global aviation logistics.
Strategic Location
Positioned at 15° 7' 58.80" N latitude and 10° 34' 1.20" W longitude, Yélimané Airport's coordinates serve as critical navigation references for pilots. The location places the facility within Mali's Kayes Region, near the border with Mauritania, serving both local communities and regional transportation needs.
Mali's Aviation Network
Yélimané represents just one node in Mali's comprehensive airport system. Each airfield in the country carries distinctive IATA and ICAO codes that collectively form the nation's aviation infrastructure. These identifiers facilitate everything from commercial flights to humanitarian missions across West Africa.
Practical Considerations
For travelers or aviation professionals planning to use Yélimané Airport, key details include:
- Code Memorization: Recognizing EYL and GAYE ensures smooth operations during ticket booking, flight planning, and communications with air traffic control.
- Navigation: The geographic coordinates assist in route planning and orientation.
- Operational Details: Additional specifications like runway dimensions and available services should be verified through official aviation resources.
The GAYE identifier represents more than just an administrative designation—it symbolizes Yélimané Airport's role in connecting Mali to global transportation networks. Understanding these aviation codes and their underlying systems provides valuable perspective on international air travel infrastructure.