If airports serve as gateways to cities, then their unique airport codes act as keys to these portals. Montaudran Airport in France, though no longer functioning as a primary aviation hub, maintains significant historical importance in the development of air transportation. This article provides a comprehensive examination of Montaudran Airport's geographical location, airport codes (IATA: XYT, ICAO: LFIO), and related aviation resources.
1. Airport Overview: Historical Significance and Geographic Location
Montaudran Airport once served as a crucial aviation hub in France, witnessing the early development of the aviation industry. While it no longer operates as a commercial airport, its place in aviation history remains noteworthy. The airport's geographic coordinates currently appear as 0° 0' 0.00" N and 0° 0' 0.00" E in some records, which clearly represents inaccurate data. Precise coordinates should be verified through authoritative geographic information systems or specialized aviation mapping services.
2. Airport Codes: Understanding IATA and ICAO Designations
Every airport possesses unique identification codes assigned by two international organizations:
- IATA Code (XYT): The International Air Transport Association code primarily serves passenger-related operations such as ticket booking and baggage handling. While XYT remains Montaudran Airport's official designation, its practical use has diminished with the airport's reduced operational status.
- ICAO Code (LFIO): The International Civil Aviation Organization code facilitates communication between pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation authorities. LFIO continues to appear in flight planning documents and aviation databases, maintaining its relevance for historical reference and potential limited aviation activities.
3. Aviation Resources and Historical Documentation
Researchers and aviation enthusiasts seeking information about Montaudran Airport may consult several types of resources:
- Historical archives documenting the airport's role in early French aviation
- Specialized aviation databases containing technical specifications
- Official records from French civil aviation authorities
- Regional historical societies preserving local aviation heritage
4. Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Montaudran Airport's identification codes? The IATA code is XYT and the ICAO code is LFIO.
- Why does the airport have two different codes? IATA and ICAO serve different operational purposes within the aviation industry.
- Is Montaudran Airport still operational? The facility no longer serves commercial flights but may accommodate limited aviation activities.
5. Conclusion and Historical Preservation
Montaudran Airport's legacy as a pioneering French aviation facility warrants continued recognition. While its operational significance has faded, the airport's historical value persists as an important landmark in European aviation development. Future research could explore the airport's wartime contributions or its impact on regional economic growth during the early aviation era.
Readers should note that aviation information requires regular verification, particularly for facilities with changed operational status. All data presented reflects the most reliable available sources at the time of publication.