Osaka is served by two primary airports, each with its own unique 3-letter IATA code: Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Itami Airport (ITM).
Understanding Osaka's Airport Codes
When referring to the airport code for Osaka, it's important to recognize that the region is served by two major facilities. These airports handle different types of flights and cater to various travel needs, making both codes relevant depending on the nature of the flight (international or domestic).
Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the primary international hub for Osaka. Since its establishment in September 1994, it has been the main gateway for international travel to and from the region. While predominantly serving international routes, KIX also handles a selection of domestic flights, connecting passengers to various cities within Japan. Its IATA code, KIX, is widely recognized for global air travel to Osaka.
Itami Airport (ITM)
Itami Airport (ITM), officially known as Osaka International Airport, historically operated as both a domestic and international hub. Currently, ITM functions primarily as a domestic airport, providing essential air links between Osaka and numerous other Japanese cities. The IATA code for this airport is ITM, and it remains a vital component of Japan's domestic air travel network.
To summarize the airport codes for Osaka:
| Airport Name | IATA Code | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|
| Kansai International Airport | KIX | International hub, also serves some domestic |
| Itami Airport | ITM | Domestic hub (former international) |
Both KIX and ITM are crucial airports for air travel to and from Osaka, each serving distinct segments of the aviation market.
