Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method processes flight position information and provides a notification to a remote user in response to a triggering event. Typically, flight position data is received over a digital network. The service accepts requests for notification based upon the position of a specified flight and subsequently provides that notification based upon the flight position data. Upon receiving a user query, a server retrieves a result set from the flight position data and determines if the triggering criteria has been met. In one form, the requested notification may be presented to the user in the form of an e-mail, telephone call, text message or the like. Also disclosed is a system for flight tracking or planning which includes photographs supplied by remote users of the aircraft for which the tracking or planning is associated, for use by other remote users that see the association of the supplied photos with the tracked or planned flight.

Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method for the processing and optimization of flight plans is disclosed. Information regarding a plurality of previous flight plans is received over a digital network and is stored in at least a database. The database preferably includes aviation fuel price information, aircraft performance information, and aviation weather information as well. Upon receiving a request, a server generates at least an optimized portion of a flight plan. In one form, historical flight plan data of others is automatically used to aid in the determination of the optimized route offered to the user for review, with the resulting final flight plan being electronically filed with the FAA upon approval. In a further form, the user may arrange fuel transactions at intermediate destinations with the service provider receiving a fee in exchange for facilitating the transaction.

Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method for the processing and presentation of customizable aviation information is disclosed. At plurality of flight information is received over a digital network and is stored in at least a database. The database includes aviation information as well as aviation related content and advertisements. The user is able to customize a series of screen layouts for display using a combination of screen segments containing content stored at least partially in the database. In addition, the user may create personalized messages and status update for display in response to a variety of flight conditions. In one form, the results may be presented using a large display monitor by an aircraft service provider. Additionally, the display may include only flight tracking information relevant to recent and future customers.

Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method for the processing and presentation of aviation information supported by targeted advertising is disclosed. At plurality of flight information is received over a digital network and is stored in at least a database. The database includes aviation information as well as advertisement messages. Upon receiving a user query, a server retrieves a result set from the database and couples it with at least one selected advertisement for presentation to the requesting user. In one form, the results may be presented to the user in the form of digital map having aircraft images and their altitude indicated by an offset shadow. Additionally, the visualization may show only a portion of the path of a flight in the event that multiple flights are displayed in order to preserve readability.