FAQ

• Why does GPS interference occur?
  GPS interference occurs due to various factors such as electromagnetic radiation from nearby electronic devices, intentional jamming, atmospheric conditions, and solar activity. Electromagnetic interference from sources like radios, cell phones, or power lines can disrupt GPS signals, leading to inaccuracies or loss of connection. Intentional jamming, often used maliciously or by authorities in sensitive areas, emits signals that overpower GPS signals. Atmospheric conditions like ionospheric disturbances can distort signals as they pass through the Earth's atmosphere. Solar activity, particularly solar flares, can also affect GPS signals by generating charged particles that interfere with communication between satellites and receivers.
• What is the difference between GPS jamming and GPS interference?
  GPS jamming is the intentional transmission of signals to disrupt or block legitimate GPS signals. Conversely, GPS interference refers to unintentional disruptions caused by various factors such as electromagnetic radiation, atmospheric conditions, or solar activity. Unlike jamming, interference occurs inadvertently and can lead to inaccuracies or loss of GPS signal reception. Both phenomena pose challenges to GPS reliability and functionality, but their distinctions lie in their intent and origin.
• What is the source of this data?
  The GPS interference data is derived from NIC (navigation integrity category) values that we receive as part of the ADS-B protocol. We mark regions as affected if a significant number of flights in that area report lowered NIC values.
• How often is this data updated?
  We receive NICs with every ADS-B update and the data on this page is updated every 6 hours.
• How does GPS jamming work?
  GPS jamming works by transmitting radio frequency signals on the same frequencies used by GPS satellites. These signals overpower or interfere with legitimate GPS signals received by GPS receivers, rendering them unable to accurately determine their position, velocity, or time.
• How does GPS interference impact aircraft?
  GPS interference can significantly impact aircraft by compromising navigation and communication systems, posing safety risks. Aircraft rely heavily on GPS for precise positioning, route guidance, and situational awareness. Interference can disrupt GPS signals, leading to navigation errors, incorrect altitude readings, or loss of position accuracy. This can result in flight deviations, missed approaches, or potential collisions, especially in critical phases such as takeoff, landing, or during instrument approaches in low visibility conditions. Aircraft are equipped with redundant systems and pilots are trained for GPS disruption, but the GPS interference is still a growing concern.
• How does GPS interference impact flight tracking?
  While aircraft are equipped with redundant systems and pilots are trained to mitigate the dangers posed by GPS jamming, flight tracking data may suffer as a result. Data sent by the transponder in areas affected by GPS jamming may be erroneous or ADS-B data may stop entirely. Flightradar24 is working on methods of data collection and processing to mitigate the effects of GPS jamming on flight tracking. Where possible, Flightradar24 reverts to tracking aircraft experiencing GPS jamming with MLAT, allowing us to continue to properly plot the aircraft's position independent of the ADS-B position reports.