Why Is Rome Airport FCO?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever wondered why Rome’s main airport is called FCO? In this article, we will explore the origins of this abbreviation and the history behind it.

The History of Rome Airport

Rome’s main airport, officially known as Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, is one of the busiest airports in Europe. It serves as a major gateway to Italy and handles millions of passengers each year. But why is it referred to as FCO?

The Origins of FCO

The abbreviation FCO actually comes from the airport’s original name – Fiumicino Airport. The airport is located in the town of Fiumicino, which is approximately 35 kilometers from Rome’s city center. When the airport was first established in 1961, it was named after its location.

Over time, as the airport expanded and gained international prominence, it was decided to add a tribute to one of Italy’s most famous historical figures – Leonardo da Vinci. Thus, in 2006, the official name became Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport.

The Significance of FCO

Despite its official name change, many people still refer to the airport simply as FCO. This abbreviation has become widely recognized and used by travelers and locals alike.

  • Simplicity: The use of three letters makes FCO easy to remember and recognize.
  • Consistency: Many airports around the world have adopted three-letter codes for identification purposes. This helps maintain consistency across different airlines and travel systems.
  • Efficiency: Using abbreviations like FCO saves time when referring to airports in conversation or on tickets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rome’s main airport is called FCO due to its original name, Fiumicino Airport. Despite the official name change to Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, the abbreviation FCO has stuck and become widely recognized. The simplicity, consistency, and efficiency of using this three-letter code make it a convenient way to refer to the airport.

So, next time you plan a trip to Rome, remember that FCO is the code you need to know!