PlanePlotter 6.7.5.1 (Real-Time ADS-B Tracking)

Overview of the Software

COAA PlanePlotter 6.7.5.1 is a specialized real-time aircraft tracking and visualization tool designed for aviation enthusiasts, professional spotters, and ground station operators. Unlike basic flight trackers, PlanePlotter uses a unique peer-to-peer network to share raw ADS-B, Mode S, and Mode A/C data, enabling users to track non-ADS-B equipped aircraft via Multilateration (MLAT) .

This version (6.7.5.1) focuses on improving network stability, raw data decoding, and integration with RTL-SDR dongles, Beast receivers, and Airspy devices. The software runs exclusively on Windows OS (7 through 11) and is distributed as shareware with a 21-day fully functional trial.

Key Features

• Multilateration (MLAT) : Calculates position of non-ADS-B aircraft using signal time-difference from multiple ground stations.

• Hypersharing Technology: Efficiently shares raw I/Q and FFT data between users, reducing bandwidth.

• Mode A/C Detection: Decodes legacy radar replies for basic position and identity.

• Raw Data Buffering: Allows replaying recent signals to reconstruct missed plots.

• Chart Overlay Engine: Plots aircraft directly on scanned charts, maps, or OpenStreetMap.

• GPX & KML Export: Export flight paths for route analysis or integration with Google Earth.

• Conditional Expressions: Advanced filtering (e.g., “show only military hex codes above 30,000 ft”).

• Remote Control via TCP/UDP: Integrates with virtual radar servers or home automation.

What’s New in COAA PlanePlotter 6.7.5.1

The latest maintenance release focuses on reliability and new receiver support:

• Improved Airspy HF+ Discovery support – better raw I/Q streaming.

• Enhanced TCP output stability – fixes dropped connections during high traffic.

• Fixed Mode A/C time-stamping for multilateration.

• Updated country database (December 2024).

• Better USB error handling for RTL2832-based dongles.

• Minor chart calibration refinements for map alignment.

Note: Version 6.7.5.1 does not introduce paid upgrades or license changes. Existing version 6 users can update free of charge.

System Requirements

PlanePlotter also runs on Windows Server 2016+ but is not officially supported on Linux or macOS (except via virtualization).

Installation Guide

1. Download the official installer
   Visit the COAA website (coaa.co.uk/planeplotter). Avoid third-party download sites.

2. Run as Administrator
   Right-click Setup-PlanePlotter-6.7.5.1.exe → Run as Administrator. This ensures registry keys for raw socket access are set.

3. Accept the license agreement
   The license prohibits unauthorized sharing of decrypted military data. Read carefully.

4. Select components

   • Core Program (required)

   • Sample charts (optional – ~50 MB)

   • Map calibration tools (recommended for advanced users)

5. Complete installation
   Launch PlanePlotter. The software starts in Evaluation Mode (21 days). No activation key is required during this period.

How to Use the Software

1. Basic Setup (ADS-B only)

• Connect your RTL-SDR or Airspy.

• Go to Options → Mode-S receiver → RTL dongle.

• Set your approximate latitude/longitude.

• Enable Options → Chart → OpenStreetMap.

• Aircraft should appear within 60 seconds.

2. Enabling MLAT (Track non-ADS-B planes)

• Join the PlanePlotter network: File → Share → Enable sharing.

• Ensure your clock is synced to NTP (critical for MLAT).

• Right-click an unknown target → Multilaterate.

• After 10–15 seconds, a red circle turns into a yellow aircraft symbol.

3. Recording & Playback

• File → Record raw data – saves signal for later analysis.

• File → Playback raw data – useful for training or reviewing missed flights.

4. Exporting to Google Earth

• Select tracked flights → File → Export KML.

• Open the file in Google Earth Pro to view 3D flight paths.

Best Use Cases

• Aviation Enthusiasts – Monitor local GA traffic, military trainers, and helicopters that lack ADS-B.

• Plane Spotters – Identify aircraft arriving at non-radar airports using MLAT.

• Ground Station Operators – Share your receiver’s data to improve MLAT coverage in your region.

• Journalists & Researchers – Verify flight patterns during airspace restrictions or unusual events.

• Home Automation Integrators – Use PlanePlotter’s UDP output to trigger alerts when specific hex codes enter a zone.

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages

• Unique MLAT capability – tracks aircraft without ADS-B (many alternatives cannot).

• Very low bandwidth sharing – hypersharing works even on 4G mobile connections.

• Single payment – no monthly subscription (unlike FlightAware or RadarBox).

• Highly customizable – conditional expressions, alerts, remote control.

Limitations

• Windows-only – no native Linux or macOS version.

• Steep learning curve – advanced features require reading the manual.

• Map interface is dated – looks like software from 2010.

• MLAT depends on other users – sparse coverage in remote areas.

Alternatives to PlanePlotter

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is PlanePlotter 6.7.5.1 free?

No, it is shareware. You get a 21-day fully functional trial. After that, a one-time license costs approximately €25–30 EUR (varies with exchange rate). No subscription.

2. Can I use PlanePlotter without a hardware receiver?

Yes. You can use it as a network client only – viewing shared data from other users. However, you cannot initiate MLAT requests unless you contribute raw data from your own receiver.

3. Does PlanePlotter show military aircraft?

It shows any aircraft emitting Mode S, Mode A/C, or ADS-B that is not actively encrypted. Military flights with unencrypted transponders (e.g., training missions) are visible. PlanePlotter does not decrypt any signals.

4. Why do some aircraft have no position?

They are likely Mode S-only (no GPS position) or Mode A/C legacy targets. You can try to multilaterate them if at least 4 ground stations in your area receive the same signal.

5. Can I run PlanePlotter on a Raspberry Pi?

No. PlanePlotter is a Windows x86 application. However, you can run dump1090 on a Pi and forward Beast-format data to a Windows PC running PlanePlotter.

6. Does version 6.7.5.1 require me to buy a new license?

No. If you already own a license for any version 6.x, the update is free. Licenses from version 5 or earlier are not compatible with version 6.

7. Is PlanePlotter legal to use worldwide?

Yes, in most countries passive reception of ADS-B and Mode S is legal because these are open, unencrypted signals. Some nations restrict sharing of military position data – you are responsible for complying with local laws.

8. Why does my antivirus flag PlanePlotter?

PlanePlotter uses raw network sockets and USB direct access. Some antivirus software flags this as “suspicious.” The official installer from coaa.co.uk is safe. Add an exception if needed.

Final Thoughts

COAA PlanePlotter 6.7.5.1 remains the most powerful ADS-B/Mode S/MLAT client for Windows users who want offline control, no subscription, and the ability to track non-ADS-B aircraft. Its interface is dated and the learning curve is real, but no alternative offers the same depth of raw data analysis and multilateration at a one-time price.

Our Paid Service

“We do not sell or provide any software. We only offer professional support services. If any software on your system is not working properly, or you are facing installation errors, crashes, or any other technical issue — just contact us. We will help you fix the problem quickly and remotely via AnyDesk. No software will be provided from our side — only expert troubleshooting and support.”