If airports serve as gateways connecting the world, then their three-letter codes function as the keys that unlock these portals. For air cargo professionals, accurate knowledge of airport codes is essential for efficient operations. This article examines Harris County Airport in Pine Mountain, Georgia, focusing on the logistics implications of its IATA-assigned code: PIM.
Understanding PIM: Pine Mountain's Aviation Identifier
Harris County Airport, commonly known as Pine Mountain Airport, operates under the International Air Transport Association (IATA) code PIM. Located in Pine Mountain, Georgia, this regional aviation facility plays a significant role in local transportation networks. Notably classified as a non-customs airport, PIM also serves as a city code, indicating its importance within regional logistics systems despite lacking international cargo clearance capabilities.
Critical Operational Details for Air Cargo
Air freight professionals should consider several key factors when planning shipments through Pine Mountain Airport:
- Time Zone: The airport operates on Eastern Standard Time (UTC-05:00).
- Banking Hours: Financial institutions maintain standard weekend closures (Saturday-Sunday), which may affect transactions related to cargo operations.
- Customs Clearance: As a non-customs facility, PIM requires special arrangements for international shipments, necessitating additional research for seamless cargo transfers.
The Importance of Airport Code Verification
With thousands of active airports worldwide, each possessing unique three-letter identifiers, accurate code verification forms the foundation for air waybills, cargo tracking, and operational communications. Reliable code reference systems prove indispensable for logistics professionals navigating complex global supply chains.
Navigating Airport Code Databases
Modern code query systems offer comprehensive solutions, aggregating data for over 40,000 global locations while incorporating IATA updates. Advanced platforms extend beyond basic code identification, providing details on airport infrastructure, storage fees, and destination-specific requirements for labeling, markings, and documentation. Such integrated systems enable logistics teams to centralize operational intelligence, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
Effective database navigation typically supports multiple search methods:
- Fuzzy searches using country, city, airport, or code fragments in English
- Phonetic queries employing initial letter combinations
Distinguishing City Codes from Airport Codes
While city codes and airport codes often overlap, they serve distinct purposes. Municipal codes represent entire urban areas, whereas airport identifiers specify individual facilities. Metropolitan regions with multiple airports frequently maintain separate codes for each aviation facility, requiring careful differentiation during logistics planning.
In today's competitive air freight environment, operational precision begins with accurate code utilization. Proper identification enables optimized routing, streamlined processes, and cost-effective transportation solutions, underscoring the fundamental role of reliable reference systems in global logistics operations.