What is an airport code?
An airport code is a unique identifier assigned to each airport in the world. It consists of three letters, usually based on the name of the airport or the city it serves. These codes are used by airlines, air traffic control, and other aviation professionals to identify specific airports quickly and efficiently.
Importance of airport codes
Airport codes are essential in the aviation industry as they help to avoid confusion and ensure safety. They are used in flight schedules, passenger tickets, baggage tags, and other important documents. Without airport codes, it would be challenging to navigate the vast network of airports worldwide and coordinate air traffic effectively.
Bowers Airport: Location and Overview
Bowers Airport is a public-use airport located in the town of Ellensburg, Washington State, USA. It is situated approximately three miles east of the central business district of Ellensburg and covers an area of 85 acres. The airport serves general aviation activities, including flight training, recreational flying, and aircraft maintenance.
The history of Bowers Airport code
Bowers Airport was founded in 1946 and was initially known as Ellensburg Municipal Airport. The airport’s IATA code was ESW, and its ICAO code was KELN. In 1982, the airport was named after Ralph Bowers, a local pilot who played a crucial role in establishing the airport. Since then, the airport’s IATA code has changed to ELN, while its ICAO code remains KELN.
What is the current airport code for Bowers Airport?
The current airport code for Bowers Airport is ELN, which is used by airlines, air traffic control, and other aviation professionals to identify the airport. The code is also used in flight schedules, passenger tickets, and baggage tags.
How is an airport code assigned?
Airport codes are assigned by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The IATA assigns three-letter codes to airports worldwide based on the airport’s name or the city it serves, while the ICAO assigns four-letter codes based on the airport’s location and other criteria.
Understanding the elements of the airport code
Each airport code consists of three letters, with the first two letters representing the country where the airport is located. The third letter is usually derived from the airport’s name or the city it serves. For example, ELN for Bowers Airport represents the airport’s location in Ellensburg, Washington State, USA.
Bowers Airport code in the aviation industry
Bowers Airport’s code, ELN, is widely recognized in the aviation industry and is used by airlines, air traffic control, and other aviation professionals worldwide. The airport’s code helps to identify the airport quickly and efficiently, ensuring smooth and safe air traffic.
Common misconceptions about airport codes
One common misconception about airport codes is that they are assigned randomly. In reality, airport codes are assigned based on specific rules and criteria. Another misconception is that airport codes are the same as the airport’s name. While this is sometimes true, airport codes may also be based on the city the airport serves or other factors.
How to use the Bowers Airport code
The Bowers Airport code, ELN, can be used in a variety of ways, including flight schedules, passenger tickets, and baggage tags. It can also be used to track flights, check for delays, and make travel arrangements.
Conclusion: Why airport codes matter
Airport codes are an essential part of the aviation industry, helping to ensure smooth and safe air traffic. They allow airlines, air traffic control, and other aviation professionals to identify specific airports quickly and efficiently, avoiding confusion and potential safety hazards. As such, airport codes play a vital role in ensuring that air travel remains one of the safest and most convenient modes of transportation today.
References and further reading
- Federal Aviation Administration. (n.d.). Bowers Field (ELN). Retrieved from https://www.airnav.com/airport/KELN
- International Air Transport Association. (n.d.). Airport codes. Retrieved from https://www.iata.org/en/publications/directories/code-search/
- International Civil Aviation Organization. (n.d.). Location indicators. Retrieved from
