The 3-letter code for Beijing Capital International Airport, the busiest of the two international airports serving Beijing, is PEK.
Understanding Airport Codes
When referring to airport codes, there are primarily two types used globally:
- IATA Code (3-Letter): This is the most common code used by airlines, travel agencies, and the general public for flight bookings, baggage tags, and destination identification. These are the 3-letter codes you typically see on your boarding pass or when searching for flights.
- ICAO Code (4-Letter): These codes are used for air traffic control, flight planning, and operational purposes, providing more specific location information within the global aviation system.
The question specifically asks for the 3-letter code, which refers to the IATA code.
Beijing's International Airports
Beijing, the capital of China, is served by two major international airports, each with its own unique set of codes.
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Beijing Capital International Airport is identified by the 3-letter IATA code PEK. This facility is the busiest of the two international airports serving Beijing and has long been the primary gateway to the city, serving as a major hub for air travel in China. Its corresponding 4-letter ICAO code is ZBAA.
For more detailed information about this airport, you can visit the Beijing Capital International Airport Wikipedia page.
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)
The newer Beijing Daxing International Airport, which commenced operations in 2019, also serves the Beijing metropolitan area. Its 3-letter IATA code is PKX, and its 4-letter ICAO code is ZBAD. While Beijing Capital (PEK) retains its status as the busiest, Daxing (PKX) is rapidly growing as a significant international hub.
Summary of Beijing Airport Codes
Here’s a quick reference for the key international airports serving Beijing and their respective codes:
| Airport Name | IATA Code (3-Letter) | ICAO Code (4-Letter) | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing Capital International Airport | PEK | ZBAA | Busiest, established international gateway |
| Beijing Daxing International Airport | PKX | ZBAD | Newer, rapidly growing international hub for the city |
Understanding these distinct codes is essential for travelers to ensure accurate flight bookings and to identify the correct airport for their travel plans to or from Beijing.
