How old is the aircraft you are flying on? Here is how to find out

Dubai: As air travel continues on a path of robust recovery and expansion, a question frequently on the minds of passengers, consciously or not, is the age of the aircraft they are flying on.

Ahead of our flight, most of us are caught up juggling seat numbers, stuffing bags into overhead luggage compartments, and getting to our destination as soon as possible. The desire among passengers to know the age of an aircraft is a relatively recent phenomenon.

Here's how you can determine the age of your aircraft.

Checking the age of the aircraft is a lot easier than it looks. All you need is your flight number, which can be easily found on your ticket, boarding pass, or booking confirmation.

Here’s your guide:

Step 1: Identify the flight number

Locate the unique identifier for your flight. This typically consists of two letters representing the airline code followed by three or more numbers (e.g., EK 203, BA 105, W6 501). This flight number is crucial for unlocking the details of a specific aircraft.

Step 2: Utilise a flight tracking platform

Enter the flight number into one of the popular flight tracking websites like FlightRadar24, FlightAware, Airfleets.net, and Planespotters.net. These platforms provide real-time information about aircraft operations and will reveal your aircraft's registration number. In many regions, the registration number often begins with a specific prefix.

These tools offer a wealth of information, including the aircraft's current location, its model, and importantly, its registration number.

Step 3: Uncover the aircraft's history

Once you have the aircraft's registration number, you can explore its history using dedicated aviation history websites, such as Airfleets.net or Planespotters.net. Enter the registration number into the search function. You will then be able to access detailed information, such as the manufacturer (e.g., Boeing, Airbus), the year it was manufactured, the list of airlines that have previously operated the aircraft, and any significant refurbishments or changes to its appearance over time.

Unlike cars that might be deemed "old" after a decade or so, commercial aircraft are built to last for decades, often spanning 25 to 30 years or even longer. Their lifespan isn't solely determined by the number of years in service, but rather by factors such as the number of pressurisation cycles (take-offs and landings) and the rigorous maintenance schedules they undergo.

Aircraft are designed with significant structural redundancy, aviation experts have said. Regular and detailed maintenance is paramount, and that's what dictates an aircraft's continued airworthiness, not just its age.

The aviation industry operates under stringent regulations established by international bodies, such as the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), and national aviation authorities, including the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

These regulations require airlines to implement comprehensive maintenance programs throughout an aircraft's operational life. These programmes include routine checks, detailed inspections at specific intervals, and the replacement of parts based on time limits or usage.

Experts advise passengers to focus on reputable airlines with established maintenance records rather than solely on the perceived age of the aircraft. The transparency and safety records of an airline are often better indicators of a safe flying experience.