Identify an aircraft without overreading the data.
Start with the aircraft type and registration, use the callsign as operational context, then check route, movement and data freshness.
Separate callsign from registration
A callsign commonly identifies a flight or operation, while a registration identifies the aircraft airframe. They can match for some general aviation flights but often differ for airlines and special operations.
Use the type code
Aircraft type codes narrow the airframe family. Combine the code with registration and operator information before drawing conclusions from shape, altitude or speed.
Respect unknown fields
Missing route, operator or destination data is normal. Heading alone does not reveal a destination, and repeated movement does not prove a mission or intent.
What to know before opening the radar
What is ICAO24?+
It is a technical 24-bit aircraft address used in surveillance data. It is not the same thing as a callsign or registration.
What is a squawk code?+
It is a transponder code used in air traffic surveillance and communication.
Official references
Locations and aircraft capabilities can change. These primary sources support the basing, capability and public-tracking explanations used in this guide.