Global Flight Tracking: Dispelling Myths and Understanding Reality

The assertion that flight paths of planes are not tracked in the Southern Hemisphere is a misperception. In fact, aircraft are tracked globally, including in the Southern Hemisphere, through a combination of radar systems, satellite tracking, and air traffic control procedures. Let’s delve into the nuances of flight tracking in the Southern Hemisphere and why this myth persists.

Radar Coverage and Limitations

While air traffic can be effectively monitored in densely populated regions, such as Europe or North America, radar coverage in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in remote areas over oceans or sparsely populated regions, may be limited. This can lead to less precise tracking compared to regions with dense radar networks. For instance, the vastness of the oceanic regions, such as the Pacific, can pose significant challenges for radar-based tracking.

Oceanic Flight Tracking: Relying on Satellite-Based Systems

Many flights in the Southern Hemisphere, especially those flying over the Pacific Ocean, rely on satellite-based tracking systems like ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast) and other technologies to maintain situational awareness and safety. ADS-B allows aircraft to transmit their position and other flight parameters to ground stations and air traffic control centers.

Role of Air Traffic Control (ATC)

Air traffic control in the Southern Hemisphere operates similarly to that in the Northern Hemisphere but with varying levels of infrastructure and flight density. Major air routes are well-monitored, while less trafficked routes may have less frequent updates. The coordination between different air traffic control centers is crucial for maintaining safe and efficient air traffic management.

International Coordination and Collaboration

Flight tracking is a coordinated effort managed by international aviation organizations. Countries collaborate to ensure that air traffic is monitored effectively across all hemispheres. This international coordination ensures that despite the challenges posed by vast oceans and sparse ground-based infrastructure, flights are tracked and managed efficiently.

Challenges in the Southern Hemisphere

Despite the robust global air traffic management systems, specific challenges persist in the Southern Hemisphere. For example, FlightRadar24, a popular flight tracking service, relies on ground-based ADS-B receivers from enthusiasts to receive the ADS position broadcasts from aircraft. The vast oceans in the Southern Hemisphere contribute to a lack of ground-based receivers, which limits the visibility of aircraft on tracking maps provided by such services.

However, it's important to note that aircraft are indeed tracked using satellite-based systems. For instance, ADS-C (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Contract) is used by ATC to receive position reports from aircraft. These position reports are sent to satellites and can be made on smaller time frames based on ATC requirements. The average time between position reports currently stands at approximately 14 minutes.

Key Takeaways:

Global tracking systems, including radar, satellite, and ATC, monitor aircraft worldwide. Challenges in remote regions, particularly over oceans, can lead to less precise tracking. Satellite-based systems and ADS-C ensure effective monitoring even in poorly covered areas. International cooperation is essential for maintaining global air traffic safety.

We just hope they turn up where and when they are supposed to be there!

FlightsRadar24 Screenshot: As Mike Glynn explained, there is no coverage over the largest oceans. But aircraft within range of ADS-B receivers are tracked live. Also, on the southern hemisphere.