Q-Codes are three-letter codes that start with the letter Q and are essential in radio communication. These codes help convey information quickly and clearly. Initially used in Morse code, they remain relevant today, even with voice transmissions. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) assigns the codes from QAA to QNZ, while the Maritime Mobile Service covers QOA to QQZ, and the International Telecommunications Union manages QRA to QUZ. In aviation, the document PANS-OPS Doc 8400 contains the important Q-codes. Here are some key aviation Q Codes:
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QDM: Magnetic heading
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QDR: Magnetic bearing
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QFE: Atmospheric pressure at aerodrome elevation or runway threshold
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QFU: Magnetic orientation of runway
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QNH: Altimeter sub-scale setting for elevation on the ground
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QTE: True bearing
For more information, check related SKYbrary articles on altimeter pressure settings and general categories.
