This guide is from the team behind FlightCatcherPro. We built the app to turn plane spotting into a game. Here’s how we’d get started.
Plane spotting is watching, IDing, and often photographing aircraft. From home with a tracker, at an airport viewing area, or at airshows and museums. Here: what to bring, the best apps for beginners, and where to spot.
In short
- You need a smartphone, optional binoculars, and a tracker plus a spotting game.
- Start with FlightRadar24 or FlightAware, then add an ID/collection app like FlightCatcherPro.
- Best starter airports: Heathrow, LAX, Schiphol, Dubai. We have a full list with tips.
- Match what you see to a flight on the tracker; with practice you’ll recognise types and liveries.