Nestled in the picturesque Occitanie region of southern France, beyond the charming rural landscapes and historic monuments, lies a discreet yet vital aviation hub—Montauban Airport. While it doesn't see the bustling international traffic of major airports, this facility plays an essential role in regional air transport and specialized cargo operations.
Montauban Airport Overview
Officially named Aérodrome Morin-Vedrines Airport, Montauban Airport carries the IATA code XMW. Strategically located in France's Occitanie region, it serves as an important support node for local aviation activities. Notably, Montauban lacks customs facilities, which affects international cargo handling procedures.
Airport Codes and Identification
Every airport worldwide possesses a unique three-letter code assigned by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). These codes serve as critical identifiers within global aviation systems, used for flight bookings, baggage tracking, and cargo documentation. The XMW designation represents Montauban's identity in international aviation networks.
Regional Context and Time Zone
Montauban Airport operates within the Occitanie region, an area renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural scenery. The airport observes the UTC+02:00 time zone, a crucial factor for flight scheduling and international coordination.
Non-Customs Airport Characteristics
As a non-customs facility, Montauban cannot directly process international import/export clearances. Cargo operations involving international shipments must route through customs-approved airports for documentation processing. Businesses utilizing this airport for freight operations should thoroughly understand these regulatory requirements.
Three-Letter Code Search Systems
Several comprehensive databases exist for airport code queries, containing information on over 40,000 global locations. These systems, updated with IATA data, provide details on airport facilities, storage fees, and specific requirements for air cargo labeling, markings, and accompanying documentation—essential tools for aviation professionals.
Effective Search Techniques
Modern search platforms allow flexible queries using:
- Country, city, or airport names in English or local languages
- Three-letter codes
- Custom phonetic abbreviation systems
These systems typically highlight customs-equipped airports and provide direct links to clearance requirements.
Understanding Code Relationships
Distinguishing between city codes and airport codes remains important. While city codes represent metropolitan areas, airport codes identify specific aviation facilities within those regions. Some major cities contain multiple airports with distinct codes.
Operational Significance
Though modest in scale, Montauban Airport (XMW) serves critical functions for Occitanie's transportation infrastructure. Proper understanding of its capabilities and limitations enables efficient regional logistics planning. The availability of detailed code databases supports precise air cargo operations worldwide.