Flight Tracker Websites vs Apps: Which Is Better?

Flight tracker websites and apps use the same kinds of data, so neither is more accurate by default. A website needs no installation and is ideal for quick lookups; an app can send notifications and work smoothly on a phone.

What they share

Both are built on ADS-B and similar feeds, plus airline schedule data in some products. Differences in accuracy come from data sources and receiver coverage, not from website versus app.

Websites

• No installation, works on any device.
• Easier to search and share links, such as a live flight link.
• Search engines can find pages for airports, airlines and routes.
• Usually no push notifications.

Apps

• Can send alerts such as takeoff, landing or delay.
• May save favourite flights and work offline for saved data.
• Need to be installed and updated.

Which to use

For checking on a family member’s flight, a website is usually enough. For frequent travel with alerts, an app with airline schedule data is useful. FlightRadar.pk is a website; we do not have an app, and our alerts page is a waiting list.

Read how to track a flight on your phone.

General information only, not legal or safety advice. Details change; check with your airline and the relevant authority. See our editorial policy.