ADS-B is the main source for many live positions
Equipped aircraft broadcast identity, altitude, speed and position. Networks of receivers collect those messages and send them to tracking platforms.
Satellites extend coverage over oceans and remote areas
Space-based receivers can detect ADS-B signals far beyond terrestrial antenna range. That has greatly improved tracking where traditional ground networks were sparse.
Radar and multilateration can fill other gaps
Some services receive radar-derived feeds, while multilateration estimates position from the timing of transponder signals reaching several receivers. The exact mix differs by provider and country.
Schedules and flight plans add context
A position point alone does not explain origin, destination or estimated arrival. Trackers combine movement data with airline schedules, airport information and filed routes.
Displayed time can lag the real aircraft
Data processing, network delays, filtering and local regulations may introduce latency. A public map should not be treated as an air traffic control display.
Some flights are intentionally obscured
Owners, governments or data policies can limit how a flight appears publicly. Military, state and privacy-sensitive operations may therefore be absent, delayed or anonymized.
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