Is the Plane You’re Flying On Safe and Reliable? Here’s How to Check Before You Board

After repeated emergency landings and accidents, experts urge passengers to check aircraft age, maintenance history, and safety indicators before flying

Following a recent aircraft accident in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and a series of technical snags in multiple flights across India, concerns over air travel safety are once again in the spotlight. Many passengers are now expressing anxiety about flying, especially as emergency landings and in-flight malfunctions become increasingly common.

In this context, knowing basic information about the aircraft you’re flying on, such as its age, maintenance records, and technical condition can be crucial to making informed decisions. Thankfully, this information is easily accessible online using a few trusted platforms.

How to Check Aircraft Details

You can check how old the plane is, when it was last serviced, and how often it has been maintained by using public flight tracking websites such as:

• FlightRadar24
• FlightAware
• Airfleets.net
• Planespotters.net

Steps to check on FlightRadar24:

1. Open the FlightRadar24 website or app.
2. Enter your flight number or airline code.
3. Click on the flight icon to view its live status.
4. Scroll down to find detailed aircraft info including registration number and age.

FlightRadar24 also offers real-time flight tracking, allowing you to follow any commercial aircraft currently in the air, along with key stats like the aircraft model, route, altitude, and estimated arrival time.

Why Aircraft Age and Maintenance Matter

While aircraft can operate safely for 20–24 years, aviation experts warn that many planes in India are over 30 years old. Though age alone doesn’t determine safety, proper maintenance is essential. Older planes that have been rigorously serviced may still be perfectly airworthy, while newer planes with poor upkeep may pose risks.

Here are warning signs that might indicate an unsafe aircraft:

• Visible damage: Duct-taped panels, broken seat backs, or overhead bin doors that don’t close properly.
• Missing safety equipment: Life jackets, oxygen masks, and fire extinguishers must be present and functional.
• Leaks or stains: Water stains may signal fuselage issues; oil stains could indicate engine trouble.
• Rust, dents, or deep scratches on the body of the aircraft, minor cosmetic issues aren’t always serious, but larger damage should raise concern.

Experts suggest avoiding long-haul travel on very old aircraft, particularly those over 30 years of age, unless you’re confident about the airline’s maintenance standards. Routine fliers, in particular, are encouraged to use tracking platforms to stay informed about the aircraft’s condition and performance history.

In today’s high-pressure aviation environment, being aware of your aircraft’s history can add an extra layer of security to your journey. With modern tools like FlightRadar24 and others, passengers can now take an active role in monitoring their own travel safety, right from their phone screens.