Tracking flights in 3D with Google Earth can be accomplished using online services that take advantage of the Google Earth programming environment (API). One of the more popular services is FlightWise, which only requires users to enter in the airline and flight number to receive 3D Google Earth real-time flight information. Since FlightWise is recommended by Google it's the best option for online flight tracking enthusiasts and even one-time users.
Visit the Google Earth website and download Google Earth. The download page will auto detect if you are using Windows or Mac and choose the right option. Please note: the file is over 30MB in size and may take several minutes to download with ADSL or Cable modem speeds (much longer with dial-up connections).
Install Google Earth on your PC or Mac. Click on the icon and follow your systems installation directions to perform a standard installation.
Visit the FlightWise website and click on the "Flight Tracking" link at the very top of the page. Next click on "Track Flights" on the globe that appears.
Locate the flight tracker bar and enter in your full flight number next to the field titled "Enter the flight ID" and press the "Search" button.
Wait for the flight tracker page to load with a 2D map of the flight. Locate the button titled "+ Google Earth" on the right bottom side of the page and click on that link. Choose to "Open with" the file and press OK.
Wait for the Google Earth application to launch and the new mapped flight location to display. Press the "+" button or drag the "zoom bar" on the right side of the Google Earth application to zoom in on flight information. You can also double click on the screen to zoom in more quickly. Hovering over the Google Maps screen will display the zoom options if they are hidden.
