What is ADS-B Exchange?
ADS-B Exchange is an open-source, volunteer-run platform that collects and shares aircraft location data through crowdsourced ADS-B receivers. It was created to provide improved ADS-B coverage compared to existing flight tracking services by tapping into home-based ADS-B receivers operated by a global network of enthusiasts.
The platform aggregates ADS-B data from thousands of feeder stations set up by volunteers around the world. This crowdsourced data is displayed on the ADS-B Exchange map, allowing anyone to view the real-time positions of properly equipped aircraft. Users can track commercial flights as well as general aviation traffic.
ADS-B Exchange enables pilots, aviation enthusiasts, researchers, and developers to access crowdsourced, global ADS-B data. The platform is entirely funded by donations with all participants volunteering their time, equipment, and bandwidth. It provides community tools like flight tracking, fleet tracking, coverage maps, and an API to allow innovative uses of the ADS-B data.
FlightRadar24, RadarBox, FlightAware, FlightAirMap, adsbScope, PlanePlotter, Plane Finder, OpenSky Network, VariFlight-Live on time, ADSB Hub are some alternatives to ADS-B Exchange.