From a position signal to an explainable target.
Airplane Mode is built as a gateway-first live map. It requests the airspace in view, normalizes the available telemetry and applies transparent local rules for presentation and analysis.
1. The map defines the request
The current map bounds determine which airspace is requested. Refresh timing adapts to map scale and interaction so the application can remain responsive without treating every view as a full-world query.
2. Telemetry becomes one aircraft model
Position, identity, movement and route fields are normalized into a consistent aircraft state. Missing data remains missing instead of being invented. Markers interpolate between fresh positions to reduce visual jumping while preserving the latest reported target.
3. Classification adds context
Aircraft type, callsign and registration patterns contribute to category and military-like context. A capability library translates known type codes into roles. Confidence reflects the amount and specificity of supporting evidence.
4. Analysis stays descriptive
The target brief and Area Intelligence summarize current telemetry with deterministic rules. Short projections extend current movement only. Airplane Mode does not claim to infer a hidden destination, mission or intent.
What to know before opening the radar
Is Airplane Mode an air traffic control system?+
No. It is a public-facing visualization and research tool, not an operational navigation or safety service.
Why does an aircraft sometimes disappear?+
Coverage, telemetry freshness, map filters and identifier changes can all affect whether a contact remains visible.