How to check where the plane is? Discover the best flight tracking applications. The available options do not end with Flightradar24. See how these tools work that allow you to observe aircraft routes around the world. Technology, curiosities and practical tips!
How to check where the plane is?
Imagine that someone from your family gets on the plane and is just going on a long journey. Minutes will be longer, and you are wondering if it has already started, where it is now and whether the flight runs without problems. Or maybe the plane is just flying over your house? Sounds familiar? Fortunately, you don’t have to guess where the machine is currently – you can check it all in a few seconds.
Flightradar24 – King of Flight Tracking
If you had (-aś) once dealing with the topic of flight tracking, probably Flightradar24 is the first name that came to your mind. And for a reason. This is one of the most popular platforms, which is used by both ordinary users and aviation enthusiasts or even industry professionals. What distinguishes flightradar24? First of all, extremely detailed flight data – from the route and height to the aircraft model and registration number.
Thanks to ADS-B technology, the application collects data from the transmitters on the aircraft board. Effect? You can watch air traffic around the world and even check the view from the cockpit of the aircraft in 3D mode. Interestingly, the platform also has a flight history function, so you can go back to events a few days ago.
The application is available for free, although more advanced functions are only available after purchasing the Pro Subscription.
Flightaware – not only for aviation fans
Flightaware is another strong player on the market for tracking aircraft tools. Although it is not as visually extended as Flightradar24, it makes up for the wealth of operational data. This is especially useful if you are interested in flight punctuality or detailed information about delays. The application also supports the notification system, thanks to which you will get a message to the phone when the plane starts, lands or changes the route.
Plane Finder – for details lovers
If you are interested in maps and air routes analysis, Plane Finder is another proposal worth attention. The application offers maps with the possibility of filtering according to various criteria, such as airlines, aircraft types or flight routes. What’s more, you will find here the “Replay” function that allows you to recreate the course of any flight – something just right for those who like to carefully analyze events. The application may not be as known as Flightradar24, but its intuitive interface and an interesting set of options can attract users looking for something less mainstream.
Airnav Radar – the perfect balance between functionality and simplicity
Airnav Radar is an option for those who want to quickly and conveniently check key flight information. The platform is known for its transparent interface and quick access to basic data. In addition, AirNAV Radar develops a social network for aviation fans – you can share your observations and exchange information with other users.
Google and flight search function
This may surprise you, but sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. If you want to quickly check the status of a specific flight, just enter its number on Google. In search results, you will immediately see basic flight information: start time, planned landing and possible delays. Of course, there are not as many details as in dedicated applications, but for many people it is enough.
When are such applications useful?
It may seem that tracking flight is only for aviation fans, but in practice it can be useful for everyone. Do you have a loved one on a go and want to know when to take her exactly from the airport? Or maybe you are waiting for a packet transported by a cargo aircraft? Or are you just curious where this huge Airbus is going over your head? Tracking flights can simply be entertainment.
What flight data can you check?
Flight tracking applications offer a rich set of information. The most important of them include:
- Flight route – beginning and purpose of the trip,
- Current plane position – coordinates and height,
- Model and airline – technical details of the aircraft,
- Estimated landing time – Useful if you pick up someone from the airport.
For more inquisitive, even information about through speed or weather conditions on the route is available.
Tracking aircraft has never been as simple and available as today. Thanks to applications such as Flightradar24 or Flightaware, you can not only satisfy your curiosity, but also plan to plan travel and communication. The world is open – just look at a map full of moving machines to realize how dynamic and complex modern air traffic is.
