#86 - Mapping the Skies: The Tech Behind Real-Time Flight Tracking with Ian Petchenik

Passive Income Pilots

Welcome back to another episode of Passive Income Pilots! In this episode, Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson step outside financial strategies to explore the world of real-time flight tracking with Ian Petchenik, Director of Communications at FlightRadar24. Ian shares insights into the app that has become essential for aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike, with its vast network of over 41,000 ADS-B receivers tracking more than 200,000 flights daily. Whether a pilot or an aviation enthusiast, this episode takes you behind the scenes of one of the most fascinating innovations in modern air travel.

Ian Petchenik serves as the Director of Communications at FlightRadar24, where he has been instrumental in the company’s growth for over nine years. A leading voice in aviation technology, Ian is passionate about bringing complex flight-tracking data to life for professionals, enthusiasts, and everyday users. His expertise spans communications, aviation technology, and leveraging ADS-B data to enhance air traffic efficiency and safety.

Show notes:

(0:00) Intro

(2:35) How FlightRadar24 works and its features

(5:13) The accidental origins of FlightRadar24

(7:31) Practical uses for ADS-B technology

(12:43) Where is data transmitted to

(14:06) ADS-B out, ADS-B in, and ADS-C

(16:38) Their biggest customer

(18:22) Making air travel safer and more efficient

(21:16) FlightRadar24's 41,000 global receivers

(32:20) How to connect with Ian

(33:25) Outro

Connect with Ian Petchenik:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianpetchenik
• Website: https://www.flightradar24.com/blog/author/ian/
• Podcast: https://www.flightradar24.com/blog/avtalk-295/

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The content of this podcast is provided solely for educational and informational purposes. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts, Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson, and do not reflect those of any organization they are associated with, including Turbine Capital or Spartan Investment Group. The opinions of our guests are their own and should not be construed as financial advice. This podcast does not offer tax, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are advised to consult with their own legal or financial counsel and to conduct their own due diligence before making any financial decisions.