International Q Code is an abbreviated way to exchange a great deal of information with a simple code.

The Q Code consists of three-letter groups with each group having a specific meaning. Each group begins with the letter Q. Auxiliary letter groups or numbers are also used to help define the information that is need or passed with certain Q Code three-letter groups.

The International Q Code can be arranged in three types of code groups according to the second letter in the three-letter Q Code.

The Q Code comprises :

A. General Codes, second letter of which is R, S, T or U. (Some used by Hams).

B. Maritime Service Codes, second letter of which is O, P or Q.

C. Aeronautical Codes, second letter of which is A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M or N.