Track flights like a pro: the best apps to track planes in real time.
Have you ever looked up at the sky, seen a plane passing by, and wondered where it’s going? Or maybe you’re about to board a flight and want to check its exact location?
I used to rely on airline websites and frustrating airport screens, but then I discovered flight tracking apps—and let me tell you, they completely changed the way I follow flights.
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or just someone who loves knowing what’s flying above, these apps for tracking airplanes will blow your mind.
Let’s dive into the best options and how they can make your life easier.
Why use a flight tracking app?
Before I found these apps, I had no idea how detailed flight tracking could be. I thought it was just about checking if a plane was on time.
But these apps give you real-time insights, letting you track aircraft worldwide with precise location, altitude, speed, and even historical flight data.
Here’s why you should have a flight tracker on your phone:
Monitor flights of family and friends – Know exactly when their plane will land.
Check your own flight status – Avoid surprises at the airport.
Identify planes flying overhead – See what aircraft are in the sky above you.
Learn more about aviation – Discover aircraft types, routes, and airline information.
Follow global air traffic – Track everything from commercial airliners to private jets.
Now, let’s talk about the best apps to track planes in real time.
The best apps to track planes in real time
After testing multiple flight tracking apps, I found a few that really stand out. They’re accurate, user-friendly, and full of incredible features.
1. Flightradar24 – the gold standard of flight tracking
If you want a powerful and precise flight tracker, Flightradar24 is the king.
This app turns your phone into an air traffic radar, allowing you to follow live flights worldwide. Simply tap on a plane and see everything about it: airline, route, altitude, speed, and even a 3D cockpit view!
Pros: ✔ Real-time flight tracking worldwide. ✔ 3D view of flights as if you’re inside the cockpit. ✔ Detailed flight history and route information. ✔ Augmented reality (AR) feature—just point your phone at the sky!
Cons: ❌ Some premium features require a subscription. ❌ Free version includes ads.
Download here: www.flightradar24.com
2. FlightAware – the best for real-time flight alerts
FlightAware is a fantastic app if you want instant updates about flights you’re tracking.
With this app, you get live tracking, delay alerts, and in-depth flight stats. It’s widely used by aviation professionals and frequent travelers alike.
Pros: ✔ Real-time tracking with detailed flight information. ✔ Custom alerts for departure, arrival, and gate changes. ✔ Global coverage, including private and charter flights. ✔ Works on both mobile and desktop.
Cons: ❌ Interface is not as sleek as Flightradar24. ❌ Some data updates may be delayed in free version.
Try it here: www.flightaware.com
3. Plane Finder – best for augmented reality tracking
Plane Finder is an amazing app that lets you point your phone at the sky and instantly identify planes flying overhead.
It’s a fun and informative app, perfect for aviation fans and travelers alike.
Pros: ✔ Augmented reality feature lets you identify planes with your camera. ✔ Detailed flight data, including aircraft type and speed. ✔ Smooth, user-friendly interface. ✔ Available for both iOS and Android.
Cons: ❌ Some features require a paid upgrade. ❌ Free version has limited real-time tracking.
Check it out here: www.planefinder.net
4. ADS-B Exchange – best for raw flight data enthusiasts
If you’re really into hardcore aviation tracking, ADS-B Exchange is the best option.
Unlike other apps, ADS-B Exchange doesn’t filter flight data, so you get access to aircraft that might not show up on commercial flight trackers.
🔹 Pros: ✔ 100% unfiltered flight data. ✔ Great for tracking military, government, and private planes. ✔ No subscriptions or paywalls. ✔ Runs on community-based tracking.
🔸 Cons: ❌ Interface is not as beginner-friendly. ❌ No mobile app—works best in a browser.
👉 Track flights here: www.adsbexchange.com
Which flight tracking app is best for you?
Each app has its strengths, so the best one for you depends on what you need:
✔ Want a powerful, all-in-one tracker? → Flightradar24 ✔ Need real-time alerts for a flight you’re tracking? → FlightAware ✔ Love augmented reality and identifying planes overhead? → Plane Finder ✔ Want raw, unfiltered flight data? → ADS-B Exchange
I personally use a mix of these apps depending on what I need at the moment!
My experience using flight tracking apps
I never thought I’d enjoy tracking flights this much. But once I started using these apps, I was hooked.
Whenever a plane flies over my house, I can instantly check where it’s headed. When a friend or family member is traveling, I track their flight in real time.
It’s not just fun—it’s useful. I never have to guess if a flight is delayed or worry about when to leave for the airport.
Start tracking flights today!
Whether you’re a frequent traveler, aviation enthusiast, or just curious about planes, these flight tracking apps are incredible tools.
They’re fun, informative, and actually useful in day-to-day life.
So go ahead—download one, test it out, and start tracking flights like a pro!
Now tell me, have you ever used a flight tracker before? What’s your favorite app? Let’s talk in the comments! ✈️🌍