When urgent medical supplies from around the world need to reach a community hospital in Tampa, Florida, they likely won't land directly at Tampa International Airport. Instead, these critical shipments often route through a more specialized aviation facility—North Aero Park Airport, known in aviation circles by its IATA code KYO.
KYO Airport Overview
While not a customs-designated port, this strategic cargo hub plays a vital role in regional logistics. Key details include:
- IATA code: KYO
- Official name: North Aero Park
- Location: Tampa, Florida, USA
- Time zone: UTC-08:00 (seasonal variations may apply)
- Facility type: Non-customs airport
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Positioned within Tampa's transportation network, KYO offers efficient connections throughout Florida and the broader southeastern United States. Though specific address details remain proprietary, such aviation parks typically situate near major highway systems to facilitate rapid ground distribution.
Operational Capabilities
As a non-customs facility, KYO specializes in domestic and select international freight operations with these core functions:
- Cargo consolidation and distribution from connecting flights
- Temporary warehousing for time-sensitive shipments
- Integrated ground transportation networks
- Aircraft maintenance services (limited availability)
Critical Shipping Considerations
International shipments through KYO require special handling due to its non-customs status:
- All customs clearance must occur at designated ports like Tampa International (TPA) before KYO transfer
- Precision in documentation (air waybills, commercial invoices, packing lists) meeting U.S. Customs standards
- Clear labeling and tracking markings for efficient handling
- Accompanying certificates (origin, sanitary) must travel with shipments
Banking and Customs Procedures
Financial institutions servicing KYO typically close weekends. Customs requirements often require registered user access, suggesting complex procedures that benefit from professional freight forwarding assistance.
Airport Code Systems in Logistics
Global cargo operations rely on standardized coding systems containing:
- Facility specifications for thousands of airports
- Storage fee structures
- Destination-specific handling requirements
Search functionality typically allows queries by:
- Airport/city/country names (English or local language)
- IATA codes
- Phonetic abbreviations (e.g., "LSJFF" for Los Angeles)
Code Relationship Nuances
While major airports often share codes with their host cities, metropolitan areas with multiple airports maintain distinct identifiers—a critical distinction for accurate routing.
Operational Significance
North Aero Park serves as a linchpin in Tampa's supply chain network, particularly for time-sensitive medical deliveries. Its specialized infrastructure and strategic location enable rapid regional distribution, though international shipments require coordinated customs clearance at designated ports. The aviation industry's standardized coding systems remain essential tools for optimizing these complex logistics operations.