How to Get an IATA Code
The trade association International Air Transport Association serves airlines, passengers, shippers, travel agents, and governments. You can obtain a numeric code from IATA to describe your location, equipment, company, and time zone.
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You Will Need
- Internet access
- Character codes
Steps
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Step 1
Conduct an internet search
Conduct an internet search using the keywords "IATA codes." Websites like iatacoding.com list IATA codes by category.
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Step 2
Consider one-character codes
Look for a 1-character code to designate travel class.
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Step 3
Consider two-character codes
Look for 2-character codes to designate airlines, railway, bus and ferry companies, computer reservation systems, and companies that handle air cargo.
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Two-character codes are used in reservations, timetables, tickets, tariffs, and air waybills.
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Step 4
Consider three-character codes
Look for 3-character codes to designate airports and world destinations. For example, New York, New York, is NYC and Dayton, Ohio, is DAY.
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Step 5
Consider four-character codes
Look for 4-character codes to designate types of meals served to passengers.
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Step 6
Apply
Complete any application forms necessary by downloading them from the IATA website. You can obtain a code whether or not you are a member, but non-members must fulfill yearly requirements. No matter which way you travel, IATA has a code for you when you are on the move.
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IATA was founded in Havana, Cuba in April of 1945.
