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Built-In Apple Tools Let You Track Flights on iPhone, iPad and Mac

New how-to articles explain how Messages or Spotlight fetch live flight details using Apple’s data detectors.

Overview

  • In Messages, pressing and holding an underlined flight number opens a live map and a Preview Flight card with departure and arrival times, delays, and in some cases baggage claim details plus links to the airline website and Apple Maps.
  • On iPhone and iPad, entering a flight number in Search or Spotlight surfaces an information card that can be tapped for full flight details and live status.
  • On macOS, typing a flight number in Spotlight displays the same flight card with the route map and key timing information.
  • Including the full airline name with the flight number improves detection, and the details shown can vary based on formatting and available airport data.
  • MacRumors published the step-by-step guide on December 23, 2025, with similar guidance republished by MacMegasite and covered by the Times of India, highlighting existing functionality rather than a new feature.