Planning a trip to Bhairahawa, Nepal, but confused by airport codes during flight booking? You're not alone. Airport codes, particularly IATA codes, are crucial for both travelers and aviation professionals. This article explores the IATA code for Bhairahawa Airport and provides comprehensive information to help streamline your travel plans.
Bhairahawa Airport: Key Information
Bhairahawa Airport serves as an important transportation hub in Nepal. Essential details include:
- IATA code: BWA
- ICAO code: VNBW
- Airport name: Bhairahawa Airport
- Country: Nepal
- Geographic coordinates: Latitude 27°30'43"N, Longitude 83°24'57"E
These identifiers are vital for airport recognition, flight bookings, and travel planning. The IATA code BWA serves as the unique identifier in airline reservation systems, while the ICAO code VNBW is primarily used for air traffic control and flight planning.
The Significance of IATA Codes in Air Travel
IATA (International Air Transport Association) codes are three-letter designations assigned to airports worldwide. These codes serve multiple purposes in aviation:
- Flight bookings: Used to specify departure and arrival airports
- Baggage handling: Printed on luggage tags for proper routing
- Flight information: Displayed on schedules, boarding passes, and airport displays
- Air cargo: Identifies origin and destination points for shipments
ICAO Codes: Ensuring Aviation Safety
ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) codes are four-letter identifiers primarily used for:
- Flight planning: Pilots use these codes to specify routes
- Air traffic control: Controllers track aircraft using these identifiers
- Meteorological services: Weather reports reference ICAO codes
Nepal's ICAO codes typically begin with "VN," reflecting the country's regional designation.
Bhairahawa Airport's Location and Surroundings
Located in Nepal's Lumbini Province, Bhairahawa Airport (coordinates 27°30'43"N, 83°24'57"E) serves as a gateway to significant cultural and religious sites. The region features:
- Proximity to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha
- Access to Chitwan National Park's wildlife reserves
- Gateway to Himalayan trekking routes
Practical Applications of the BWA Code
Travelers can utilize the BWA code for:
- Booking flights through airline websites or travel agencies
- Checking flight status and schedules
- Ensuring proper baggage routing
- Communicating travel plans with tour operators
When booking flights, entering BWA as the destination airport ensures correct routing to Bhairahawa. Passengers should verify this code appears on boarding passes and luggage tags.