Travel has become a cherished activity for many. However, the process of flying can sometimes be fraught with frustration.

But what if there was a way to streamline part of the travel process, making it less stressful and more enjoyable?

Well, it turns out there is, and it's been hiding in plain sight on a device most carry every day—our iPhones.

A little-known feature built into the iMessage app is being hailed as a 'game changer' by those in the know.

It's a simple trick that can provide a wealth of information about your flight, and it's already built into your iPhone, iPad, or MacBook.

Did you know there’s a little-known flight trick in your iPhone? Credit: Shutterstock

Here's how it works: Before you head to the airport, type your flight number–including the airline code–into an iMessage.

For example, if you're flying from Melbourne to Singapore with Qantas, you'd type 'QF35' into a message.

You can send this message to a family member, a friend, or even to yourself. Once sent, the flight number transforms into a clickable link.

Tap on this link, and like magic, a detailed flight summary appears.

You'll have access to essential information such as departure and arrival times, gate numbers, flight duration, and baggage claim details.

But that's not all–you'll also see real-time updates on your flight status, including any delays that might affect your travel plans.

For those of us who like to keep our loved ones informed, or for those who simply enjoy tracking their journey, there's an additional feature that's sure to impress: a live map showing the exact location of the plane from takeoff to landing.

This means your family can follow your flight's progress, giving them peace of mind and turning your journey into a shared experience.

Social media users were quick to spread the word about this handy tip.

One user with experience in the airline industry shared her enthusiasm for the feature.

‘I worked in the airline industry for three years, and this is my number one flying hack. It’s the greatest.’

She added that she ‘never has to look at the airport screens anymore’.

‘If you have a connecting flight, text yourself both flights, so the second you land, you can just click your link and see exactly where your gate is.’

The response from the online community has been overwhelmingly positive.

‘I’ve learned more on [social media] than eight years in college,’ a person wrote.

‘This is absolutely mind-blowing information,’ said another.

‘Not me, not even knowing you can text yourself,’ a third joked.

You can watch the video of the trick below:

Credit: @durbinmalonster / TikTok​

If you plan to travel abroad for your next holiday, you may need to know this information.

In a previous story, flight attendants shared a shocking proposal for airline services, especially when it comes to meal requests.

What could this proposal be? Learn more about it here.

Key Takeaways

• Travellers are praising an iPhone iMessage feature that provides flight details when you type in a flight number.
• The trick displays an array of information, including departure time, gate, arrival time, flight duration, baggage claim details, and flight status.
• Users can also follow the flight's progress on a map in real-time, providing valuable updates without consulting airport screens.
• Social media users have shared their positive experiences with the feature, calling it a 'game changer' for flying.

What do you think of this flight trick? Have you tried this feature on your phone? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

 

[Furbaby]

That is awesome and will check it out when I fly off to Canada in June. I have a connecting flight from home to Sydney and then to Vancouver.

 

[Luckyus]

When I get to the airport a couple of hours before it's means I don't normally miss flights?.