Imagine preparing for a flight to Oecussi, Timor-Leste's remote enclave. Among the essential details in your flight plan, one piece of information stands out as crucial: the ICAO code for Oecussi Airport. This four-letter identifier serves as the airport's unique fingerprint in global aviation communications and navigation systems. So what exactly is Oecussi Airport's ICAO code? The answer is WPOC.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) assigns these unique codes to airports worldwide for use in flight planning, air traffic control, and aviation communications. Unlike IATA codes (typically used for passenger ticketing and baggage handling), ICAO codes primarily serve professional aviation purposes.
Oecussi Airport Overview
- IATA code: OEC
- Airport name: Oecussi Airport
- Country: Timor-Leste
- Geographic coordinates: 9° 11' 53.02" S latitude, 124° 20' 34.81" E longitude
These precise coordinates prove vital for pilot navigation. When combined with navigation equipment and flight charts, they enable aviators to pinpoint the airport's location and plan flight routes with accuracy.
The Critical Role of ICAO Codes
ICAO codes serve multiple essential functions in aviation operations:
- Flight planning: Pilots must include ICAO codes when filing flight plans to identify departure and destination airports, ensuring air traffic control can properly coordinate flights.
- Air traffic control: Controllers use these codes to identify and track aircraft, issuing radio instructions to guide safe and efficient flight operations.
- Aviation communications: Meteorological reports (METAR) and airport forecasts (TAF) use ICAO codes to specify weather station locations, helping pilots make informed decisions.
- Database management: Airlines, airport authorities, and aviation data providers maintain accurate airport information databases using these standardized identifiers.
Locating ICAO Codes
Beyond this reference, several methods exist to find airport ICAO codes:
- Online databases: Numerous websites offer free airport code lookup services by name or location.
- Aeronautical charts: These specialized maps used by pilots contain ICAO codes alongside other critical navigation data.
- Flight planning software: Most aviation software includes built-in airport code databases for verification.
- ICAO official website: The organization maintains authoritative global listings, though typically requiring paid access.
Oecussi Airport's Future Prospects
As Timor-Leste's primary connection between the Oecussi enclave and surrounding regions, the airport serves as a vital transportation hub. With the nation's economic development and growing tourism sector, Oecussi Airport may see expansion and upgrades to accommodate increasing air traffic demands.
Understanding the ICAO code WPOC remains essential for anyone involved in regional aviation activities. Whether pilots, air traffic controllers, or aviation enthusiasts, this fundamental knowledge facilitates better understanding and participation in flight operations.