Imagine piloting a small aircraft over Tanzania's vast landscapes when an emergency forces you to land. The only nearby airstrip is Nachingwea Airport. In such moments, precise airport identification becomes vital. For Nachingwea Airport, the crucial ICAO code is HTNA.
Key Airport Information:
- IATA Code: NCH
- ICAO Code: HTNA
- Airport Name: Nachingwea Airport
- Location: Tanzania, United Republic of
- Coordinates: 10° 21' 27.00" S, 38° 46' 45.13" E
Understanding Airport Codes
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) assigns unique four-letter codes to airports worldwide for air traffic control and flight planning purposes. These differ from the three-letter IATA codes used primarily for passenger operations. The HTNA designation serves as Nachingwea Airport's precise identifier for aviation professionals.
Geographical Context
Located in southern Tanzania's agricultural region, Nachingwea Airport serves a relatively remote area. The facility primarily handles local passenger and cargo traffic, with infrastructure reflecting its regional role. Pilots must account for the terrain and weather patterns when approaching this airstrip.
Facilities and Operations
While detailed information remains limited, small airports like Nachingwea typically feature:
- A single runway with potential length and weight restrictions
- Basic navigational aids such as VOR or NDB systems
- Minimal terminal facilities for passenger processing
- Limited apron space for aircraft parking
- Possible fuel availability (requires advance confirmation)
Operational Considerations
Pilots planning to use Nachingwea Airport should:
- File comprehensive flight plans with relevant authorities
- Monitor local weather conditions closely
- Verify runway specifications and operational limitations
- Maintain communication with air traffic services
- Prepare contingency plans for emergencies
Aviation Safety and Preparedness
Accurate knowledge of ICAO codes and airport specifications forms the foundation of aviation safety. For remote facilities like HTNA, thorough pre-flight preparation becomes particularly crucial. Aviation professionals emphasize that such details, while technical, can prove decisive in operational scenarios.