IATA Airline-Prefix System Explained

The IATA airline-prefix system is a standard method used to identify airlines and their associated air waybills. This system is crucial in the freight industry, as it helps to ensure that shipments are properly routed and tracked. In this explainer, we will delve into the details of the IATA airline-prefix system, using Coyne Airways (prefix 575) as our running example.

Introduction to Airline Prefixes

An airline prefix is a three-digit code assigned to an airline by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This code is used to identify the airline and is typically printed on the Master Air Waybill (MAWB). The prefix is usually followed by a series of numbers that make up the air waybill number. For example, if we look at a MAWB with the prefix 575, we know that it belongs to Coyne Airways. The prefix is a unique identifier that helps to distinguish one airline from another.

Understanding the Air Waybill Number

The air waybill number is an 11-digit code that includes the airline prefix, followed by a series of numbers that identify the specific shipment. The first three digits of the air waybill number are the airline prefix, which in our example is 575 for Coyne Airways. The next two digits are the serial number, which is a unique identifier for the shipment. The final six digits are the shipment number, which identifies the specific shipment. The last digit of the air waybill number is a check digit, which is calculated using the previous digits.

Check Digit Calculation

The check digit is calculated using a formula that takes into account the previous digits in the air waybill number. The calculation involves multiplying each digit by a weight, adding up the results, and then finding the remainder when divided by 7. The check digit is then calculated by subtracting the remainder from 7. This calculation helps to ensure that the air waybill number is accurate and can be used to detect errors. While the exact calculation may seem complex, it is a straightforward process that can be performed manually or using a calculator.

Example and Conclusion

Using Coyne Airways (prefix 575) as our example, let's say we have a MAWB with the number 57512345678. In this example, 575 is the airline prefix, 12 is the serial number, 345678 is the shipment number, and 8 is the check digit. By understanding the IATA airline-prefix system and how to read a MAWB number, freight forwarders can ensure that shipments are properly routed and tracked. For live prefix lookup and to verify airline prefixes, visit trackjet.world.