How do I track a flight on iMessage on my iPhone?

From Text to Takeoff: Tracking Flights Directly in iMessage

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected is more crucial than ever, especially when it comes to travel. Imagine being able to effortlessly monitor the progress of a loved one’s flight, all without leaving your iMessage conversation. Thanks to a nifty, often overlooked feature, Apple’s iMessage makes flight tracking incredibly simple and convenient.

Gone are the days of fumbling through flight tracking websites or relying on third-party apps. The power to monitor a flight is now literally at your fingertips, seamlessly integrated into your iPhone’s messaging interface. Here’s how you can leverage this built-in feature:

The Magic Formula: Airline Code + Flight Number

The key to unlocking this iMessage feature is the correct format. You need to send the airline abbreviation, followed immediately by the flight number. For example, to track Delta flight 7, you would type “DL007” in your iMessage conversation and send it.

From Text to Tappable Link

Upon sending the message, iMessage intelligently recognizes the text string as a flight identifier and transforms it into a tappable link. This is a subtle but powerful transformation. No more just seeing static text; now you have an interactive element within your message.

Unveiling the Flight Details: The “Preview Flight” Option

Clicking on this newly formed link reveals a menu with a prominent “Preview Flight” option, accompanied by a small but significant airplane icon. This icon serves as a visual cue, immediately indicating that you’re about to access flight-related information.

Real-Time Information at a Tap:

Tapping “Preview Flight” opens a window directly within your iMessage, providing a wealth of information about the flight in question. You’ll find:

• Visual Representation: A map displaying the flight’s current location, plotted along its route.
• Real-Time Updates: Up-to-the-minute details on the flight’s departure and arrival times, including any delays.
• Origin and Destination: Clear information about the flight’s departure city and its final destination.
• Flight Status: A concise status indicator, such as “On Time,” “Delayed,” or “In Flight.”

Why This Feature Matters

This integrated flight tracking functionality in iMessage offers several advantages:

• Convenience: No need to switch between apps or visit external websites. Everything is accessible within your existing conversation.
• Efficiency: Quickly obtain flight information with just a few taps.
• Real-Time Updates: Stay informed about any changes to the flight schedule, allowing you to adjust plans accordingly.
• Peace of Mind: Track the progress of loved ones’ flights and know when they’ve landed safely.

Beyond the Basics

While the core function is tracking, the iMessage flight preview also serves as a quick reference point. Forget confirming the flight number? Simply send it in iMessage and use the preview to double-check the details.

In Conclusion

Apple’s iMessage flight tracking feature is a hidden gem that can significantly simplify your travel-related communication. By understanding the simple formula of airline code plus flight number, you can transform ordinary text into a powerful tool for monitoring flights in real-time, all without ever leaving your iMessage conversation. Next time you’re expecting someone to arrive or depart, give it a try! You might just find it becomes your new go-to method for staying informed.