Show more screenshots »

Flightradar24 gives users an easy way to monitor flight traffic. The website provides visitors with a world map that shows them where each aircraft is located. The website uses ADS-B receivers to track the aircraft’s movements. Not all aircraft are equipped with a receiver.

According to Flightradar24, approximately 60% of commercial aircraft and a very small portion of military and private aircraft have ADS-B receivers. For those that do, users can watch progress on the map or switch to the airplane list that gives the user the call sign, hex, squawk and radar details for each individual plane. The user can also choose to track a specific plane on the map. A chat feature is also available so users can interact with others. Although it is somewhat limited by which aircraft are carrying ADS-B receivers, Flightradar24 offers a fun, unique service to internet users.

Flightradar24 was created for individuals who are interested in aviation. Users can see where aircraft are, chat about them and view a list of details about each. Today the website covers an admirable list of aircraft, despite the fact that many do not use the ADS-B receivers that Flightradar24 requires to track them.

The service offered by Flightradar24 is unique. Most airplane related websites are intended to help internet users find airfare. Flightradar24, on the other hand, seems geared more towards aviation enthusiasts or anyone else who might be interested in air traffic patterns and related data.

The Flightradar24 website uses a dark black and grey color scheme that compliments the blue and gold logo. The homepage gives center stage to a large embedded Google map. Five navigational buttons at the top of the page let the user toggle between views. The Planes tab shows the user a list of aircraft that are currently being tracked along with their details. Settings allow the user to toggle their map view and create filters. The Chat button takes the user to the chat log in box. The website does contain advertisements, but these are generally low key and off to the side.

Visitors can view much of the information on Flightradar24 without creating an account. The website does not currently offer a log in for users. The site does provide users with a link to Flight Diary, which does give users the option of creating an account.

Those who wish to participate in Flightradar24’s chat room will also have to register for that. This can be done by clicking on the Chat button at the top of the page then the white “Register” link that appears in the top of the chat log in box. The registration form requires a name, password and email address.

Flightradar24 provides users with an interesting service, although a somewhat limited one. Currently, any visitor can stop by the website and check out air traffic and other features. The chat is free to anyone who is willing to register for it. This is definitely a good choice on the part of Flightradar24 because the website seems to be more of a casual hobbyist resource than anything else.

Flightradar24 is an interesting resource for anyone who has a fascination with aviation. Users can follow flights and participate in the community through the Flightradar24 chat.
Users who know someone aboard one of the planes being tracked by Flightradar24 can also appreciate the service.

• View embedded Google Maps depicting flight traffic
• Read a list of current flights with extra details including call signs
• Participate in the Flightradar24 chat room
• Select custom map views and more with the settings feature
• Download Flightradar24 for the iPhone or iPad

comments powered by Disqus