Frequently Asked Questions

The original boxes used an earlier API path. Over time the request volume and API costs kept growing, and I needed a more sustainable setup so I could keep supporting customers without the bill getting out of hand.

Yes. Mach 2 uses Airplanes.live as the main overhead data source, runs on much more powerful hardware, and has OTA updates so fixes and provider changes can be shipped over Wi-Fi.

The newer setup has provider settings built in. A different data source can be switched on from settings, like a toggle, without replacing the box.

That is the goal. I am committed to keeping these boxes running as long as I can, and redundancy is the best path forward: multiple data options, open API guides, and OTA updates.

Flight Tracker Mach 2 is a handmade ESP32-S3 LED matrix display that tracks flights in real time. It shows planes flying overhead, lets you follow specific flight numbers, supports multiple display modes and scenes, and receives free over-the-air updates so it keeps improving after it arrives.

Yes. It is a handmade maple LED flight tracker display for pilots, plane spotters, dads, husbands, and aviation fans who want something more interesting than another mug, poster, or airport-code sign. See the aviation gift guide for gift-specific details.

Yes — customers often call it a flight radar display or flight radar box. Mach 2 shows the same live aircraft you'd see on a flight radar map, rendered on a handmade LED flight tracker display for your home or desk. It's an independent product and is not affiliated with Flightradar24 or any flight-tracking app.

• 64×32 LED matrix in a solid maple frame
• ESP32-S3 controller board (pre-installed)
• USB-C cable for setup and power
• Quick start card with setup instructions

Plug the included USB-C cable into any standard 5V USB-C power source — no separate computer connection is needed after Wi-Fi setup.

There is no FlightTrackerLED device subscription, monthly fee, or hidden device cost. OTA updates and support are included. The Departure Board (and pre-departure status for tracked flights) uses a FlightAware AeroAPI key that you manage through FlightAware; following a flight once it's airborne needs no key at all.

• ESP32-S3 instead of Raspberry Pi — faster boot, lower power, more reliable
• Guided USB setup — no terminal commands or config files
• OTA updates — new features ship automatically
• Cloud owner portal — configure from any browser, anywhere in the world
• Handmade and tested — every unit quality-checked before shipping

Every Mach 2 is individually assembled, programmed, tested, and quality-checked by hand before shipping. These are not mass-produced units; each display is built with care around the maple frame, LED matrix, and pre-installed controller.

1. Open Chrome or Edge on a computer and go to settings.flighttrackerled.com/onboard — choose Set up a new display.
2. Plug the display into the computer with the USB-C cable when the wizard asks.
3. Follow the wizard to join Wi-Fi — it signs you in and links the display to your account in the same sitting.
4. Afterward, set your location and customize from that same portal — from any device, anywhere.

Chrome and Edge on desktop support Web Serial. Safari, Firefox, and mobile browsers do not. After initial setup, any browser works for the owner portal.

The initial Wi-Fi setup requires a desktop or laptop running Chrome or Edge because mobile browsers do not support Web Serial. After the tracker is on Wi-Fi, you can open your owner portal at settings.flighttrackerled.com from any device, anywhere — including a phone or tablet.

Search by address for an automatic 20-mile area, or drag the corners of the coverage box on the map in your owner portal for a custom boundary.

The tracker automatically re-enters setup mode when it can't connect. Plug it in via USB and re-enter your credentials at setup.flighttrackerled.com.

Yes. Enter the flight number in your owner portal — airline style (UA953) or ICAO style (UAL953), either works. Your display follows the flight in real time — altitude, speed, route — until it lands, shows Landed, and returns to the overhead scanner about 20 minutes after arrival.

Your tracker monitors live ADS-B flight data inside your configured tracking area. It shows nearby aircraft with details like airline, flight number, aircraft type, altitude, speed, and route as planes enter and leave your area.

Mach 2 supports multiple apps, scenes, and display modes from the owner portal, including Overhead Scanner, specific flight tracking, ambient scenes, and airport-style board features. New modes can arrive through free OTA updates.

The tracker checks for updates automatically over Wi-Fi. New features, modes, and fixes download and install in the background — no action required, always free.

Yes to both. Brightness is adjustable from the owner portal. You can also filter by altitude, distance, and aircraft type to see exactly what you want.

Yes. The Departure Board runs on a FlightAware AeroAPI key that you add in your owner portal. Specific flight tracking works without one once the aircraft is airborne; a linked key adds pre-departure schedule and status. For normal personal use it is usually a cheap key, and you can start with a 15-minute refresh interval to limit API usage. If you cannot afford one or simply do not want to create one, email or text me and I will help make it work for you.

We ship to 27 countries worldwide. International shipping is a flat $60, tracked. For most destinations, import duties and taxes are calculated at checkout. If your country is not offered at checkout, contact me and I will arrange it where I can. In-stock units ship in 1–2 business days. When the current batch sells out, the next batch ships late November to the first week of December.

We want you to be completely happy. If something isn't right, contact us and we'll make it right.

USB-C, 5V. Any standard USB-C charger works — phone charger, computer, or USB wall adapter. Once Wi-Fi is configured, it runs on its own with no computer attached.

Every Mach 2 includes direct lifetime support from me. There is no outsourced support queue. If you run into setup, configuration, FlightAware, or tracking issues, contact me. I am available day and night and will help you get sorted.