What is aircraft detection?

Aircraft (or aircraft) watching is an observational hobby. Enthusiasts take note of details about the aircraft they observe, such as the type of vessel, its registration number (also known as a tail or “N number” in the United States), and any distinguishing markings. The information collected is recorded in a notebook and can then be added to a spreadsheet or online database.

What are some of the things that airplane spotters notice?

  • What type of engine does it have (jet or propeller)?

  • How many engines does it have (2, 3 or 4)?

  • Where are the engines located? Are they in the fuselage or under the wing? Is there one in the queue?

  • What kind of tail does it have?

  • What is the type of wing?

  • What is the location of the brim (high, medium or low)?

supplies needed

The supplies you choose to use may vary. At its most basic, you’ll need a notebook and pencil to record the planes you see.

For the more advanced, you’ll want to invest in a decent camera to take photos. You are likely to use apps on a smartphone (like the ones mentioned below) and record your sightings using a computer.

In any case, it would be wise to carry your identification, in case you are questioned by airport security or the police.

airport codes

While aircraft detection could technically be done from anywhere, it will usually take place near an airport. Regardless of where you view it, you’ll be tracking where a plane is going and/or coming from. Therefore, it will be useful to know that there are two coding systems to identify aerodromes: IATA and ICAO.

IATA is a three-character code generally used by the travel industry. You will see these codes when purchasing tickets and on luggage. The IATA code for my regional airport, Spokane International Airport, is GEG.

ICAO is a four-character code used for flight plans, air traffic management, and weather reports. In the United States, IACO codes always start with “K”. The IACO code for Spokane International Airport is KGEG.

aircraft search app

Plane Finder gives you information about planes en route. While I use this service almost exclusively through the smartphone app, it’s also available on the computer.

When using the service, you will see a map with aircraft icons, which move in real time. To learn more about a specific flight, click on that plan’s icon and (if available) the following information will be displayed:

  • call sign

  • Altitude

  • Title

  • Position

  • squawk number

  • Speed

Live ATC app

Live ATC is a neat service that allows you to listen to your local air traffic control. As with Plane Finder, this service can be accessed via a computer or through a smartphone app.

Aircraft location databases

Two online aircraft locator databases are detection log & Spot2Log. These online databases allow you to record the information about the aircraft you have seen, as well as the photos you have taken. In addition, each site integrates with social networks. These are great benefits over using traditional spreadsheets!

Conclution

Aircraft watching is a unique hobby that can be done alone or with others. It is an intersection of many different topics (aircraft, photography, cartography, radio communication, etc.). Participation will certainly broaden your horizon!