How to Track a Flight Without a Flight Number

You can track a flight without its number by looking for the airline and route, by watching an airport’s arrivals, or by finding the aircraft on the live map. You need at least the airline, the route or the approximate time.

Option 1: by airline

If you know the airline, open its page, such as PIA, to see all of its tracked aircraft. Look for aircraft heading in the right direction near the expected time.

Option 2: by route

Use the route tracker for your origin and destination. The route corridor shows aircraft flying along that path now.

Option 3: by airport

Open the arrivals board of the destination airport, such as Karachi arrivals, to see aircraft approaching.

Option 4: ask for details

The sender can usually give you the flight number: it is on their ticket. If they cannot, ask for the airline, departure airport and time.

Matching the right plane

Compare the airline, direction, altitude and time. An aircraft descending near your destination about 20 to 40 minutes before the expected arrival is probably the one.

Remember the limits

Only aircraft with ADS-B that are received appear. If you cannot find the flight, check the airline’s status. See why flights disappear from the map.

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