Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Travel

How to track flights on iPhone using iMessage (no apps needed)

Track any flight in real time using iMessage on iPhone or iPad

By
airplane flying in sky
Kevin Woblick / Unsplash

Still hopping between airline apps or constantly refreshing flight tracking websites? You don’t have to anymore—if you’ve got an iPhone, you can track flights live, right from iMessage.

No apps. No downloads. Just one tap.

Recommended Videos

What is iMessage flight tracking?

white airplane docked at terminal
Bao Menglong / Unsplash

iMessage flight tracking is a cool hidden feature that lets you view flight information directly within the Messages app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. And you even don’t need to download any extra apps or open a browser window.

Related: 
Upgrade your daily routine with the best smartwatches for men

In other words, it’s super convenient for staying up-to-date on your travels. Use this next time your friend is flying in—just ask for their flight number, text it to yourself, and track everything from Messages. Or if you’re flying, send your info to family; they can check if you’re on time without pestering you at the gate.

Here’s what you need to get started:

  • Your flight information in a text message (sent or pasted)

  • Correctly formatted flight info (e.g., “AA8605” or “United UA572”)

  • iMessage is  enabled on your device

  • iOS 17 or later installed

How to track flights on iPhone without an app

person sitting in airport

  1. 1. Open iMessage.
    2. Type your flight info (like “AA 1234”) and hit send.
    3. Tap the message.
    4. Choose “Preview Flight.”
    ✅ You’ll see a map, gate info, baggage claim, and more.

How to format your airline details to access the flight tracker

While the full airline name and flight number format is the most reliable, other texting options can access the tracker too.

For example, with American Airlines 8605, these work:

  • AmericanAirlines8605
  • AmericanAirlines 8605
  • AA8605
  • AA 8605

Keep in mind – spelling out the name and adding a space seems to be the safest bet to ensure consistency across airlines.

In summary: How to use iMessage flight tracking

Here’s how to easily access flight details right from your iMessage:

  1. Tap the flight information within your text.
  2. Choose from two quick-action options:
    • “Preview Flight”: View a real-time flight tracker map, along with essential flight information.
    • “Copy Flight Code”: Share the flight code with others for convenience.

When you select “Preview Flight,” you’ll see:

  • Live flight map: Watch your flight’s progress visually with a moving airplane icon on a map.
  • Key flight details:
    • Airline name and flight number
    • Current flight status (on time, delayed, canceled, etc.)
    • Terminal and gate numbers
    • Arrival and departure times
    • Flight duration
    • Baggage claim carousel number

For round trips:

  • Swipe left on the bottom half of the tracker to view information for your return flight.

Things to keep in mind about iMessage flight status

  • The flight information will not be available if the flight is too far in the future.
  • In some cases, the iMessage feature might not recognize the flight information even if it’s formatted correctly. You can try entering the information manually in a flight tracking app to see if that works.

FAQs – iPhone flight tracker

Board in the airport that shows flights

How do I enable iMessage flight tracking?

Ensure that iMessage is enabled on your device, and make sure your phone is updated to at least iOS 17.

What flight information do I need for iMessage flight tracking?

You need your flight information included in a text message, formatted with the airline name or abbreviation followed by the flight number.

Can I use iMessage flight tracking for any airline?

Yes, iMessage flight tracking supports various airlines. Ensure the information is formatted correctly, including the airline name or abbreviation and the flight number.

What if the iMessage feature doesn’t recognize the flight information?

In some cases, the feature may not recognize formatted information. Try entering the details manually in a flight tracking app as an alternative.

Are there limitations to iMessage flight tracking?

Flight information may not be available if the flight is too far in the future. Additionally, the feature might not recognize the information in some cases.

view of nearly empty airport
Jue Huang / Unsplash

Bottom line

If you’re an iMessage user, it’s time to ditch the app juggling and endless website refreshing. iMessage flight tracking is your new travel bestie. Just send the flight info in a text, tap it, and voilà—real-time maps, terminal and gate details, baggage claim numbers, and more are right at your fingertips.

No more squinting at airport boards — just like picking the right maps app, this iMessage flight tracker is another travel lifesaver. No more waiting for updates. Just quick, stress-free flight tracking straight from your iPhone.

Kelly Baker
Kelly Baker
Kelly is a writer who loves good books, baking homemade bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family.

Editors’ Recommendations

How much is a first-class flight? Here’s the breakdown
This is the true cost of flying first class (and how to save)
First class on an airplane

Have you ever found yourself wondering, how much is a first-class flight? I know I did. Before I had the chance to experience it myself, first class always felt like a luxury that was just out of my reach. But now that I know what it actually costs, I’m here to share what I’ve learned about the true price of flying first class. So, here’s how much a first-class flight really costs.
Factors that affect the price of first-class flights

First things first, the price of a first-class ticket can vary depending on the different factors at play. But there is a general range, so let’s break it down a bit.
The airline and route
The cost of a first-class ticket depends mainly on the airline and the route you’re taking. For example, on a popular international route like New York to London, a first-class ticket can range from $4,000 to $7,000, sometimes even more. If you’re flying from Los Angeles to Tokyo, that price tag can jump to $14,000 or more. These prices fluctuate based on the airline’s pricing structure and the demand for seats on that specific flight.
The flight duration
Another big factor is the length of the flight. The longer the journey, the more expensive the first-class ticket tends to be. A shorter domestic flight might cost somewhere in the range of $1,000 for a first-class seat, while international flights that can last 10 hours or more could easily push into the $8,000-$15,000 range for first class. 
When you book your flight
Timing also plays a big role in the cost of your first-class ticket. The Luxury Travel Expert recommends booking your flight as early as possible to secure the best deals. So if you book months in advance, you’ll probably find better fares. However, airlines do occasionally offer last-minute discounts or promotions to fill seats, although this isn’t always the case. It’s always best to plan ahead, but keep an eye out for any deals, especially during off-peak travel seasons.
The time of year
Airline ticket prices also vary depending on the time of year. Traveling during peak times, like the holidays or summer vacation, will typically result in higher prices. Airlines usually raise prices to accommodate the increased demand during these periods.
What do you get for the price of first class?

Read more
Make the most of your vacation budget: This is the best time to book a flight
Tips and tricks to save money on your next trip
A view outside the airplane during sunset

Most people will, at some point in their lives, need to book a flight. Whether for business or pleasure, booking a flight can be straightforward or a little more complicated depending on certain factors. Once, I had to book a last-minute flight for a work trip, and with no flexibility, I ended up paying far more than I had anticipated. It was a big reminder of how much timing can affect your travel budget.

If a flight is urgent, then the luxury of booking in advance and saving money is often lost, whereas booking a holiday flight months in advance gives you ample room to shop around for the best deals available at that particular point in time. Other factors that affect pricing include the destination, the time of year of travel, and how far in advance you are allowed to book certain flight tickets. If it is limited to a couple of weeks, then you can expect to pay more, but if you're allowed to book months in advance, then this is where the most significant savings can be found.

Read more
How to pack your travel backpack, carry-on, and luggage like a boss
No matter which bag you choose, this guide will help you get to your final destination without forgetting a thing
Man packing a suitcase

It’s 2025, but you’re still packing like it’s 2005 (remember those "dark days of travel" before smart luggage and iPhones and instant language translators were a thing?). I get it -- old habits die hard. Just last month, I caught myself overpacking again, stuffing my bag with "just in case" items I’d never use. Flashbacks of past trips hit me -- dragging a heavy suitcase through cobblestone streets, digging for my charger under piles of clothes, and that one time my overstuffed bag arrived at baggage claim … with a busted zipper.

But believe it or not, it’s way easier these days to get organized for your next trip. With the right gear — including smartphone apps, a good set of packing cubes, and proper packing techniques — you can get ready for the airport in no time.

Read more