About This Project
AirportMaps.net is a community-driven, non-commercial tool built for aviation lovers who enjoy exploring airports around the world. It’s not intended for flight planning or operational use—just for fun, learning, and curiosity.
All airport data comes from a curated public database and is displayed using open-source technologies to ensure speed, privacy, and reliability.
Our Airport Database
Our database contains detailed information on thousands of airports worldwide. Each entry includes:
- Official name and location (latitude/longitude)
- ICAO and IATA codes (where applicable)
- Elevation, runway details, and airport type
We classify airports into several categories, including:
- Large & medium airports – Commercial hubs with scheduled passenger service
- Small airports – General aviation, private strips, and regional fields
- Heliports – Dedicated landing areas for helicopters
- Closed or abandoned airfields – Historical sites no longer in operation
- Balloonports, seaplane bases, and other specialty facilities
This variety lets you explore everything from major international gateways to remote bush strips.
Why We Use MapLibre GL JS
Instead of relying on commercial map services, we’ve built our interface with MapLibre GL JS—a powerful, open-source mapping library. Here’s why:
- Full control: We can customize every visual detail without restrictions
- Vector tiles: Maps load quickly and look sharp at any zoom level (powered by MapTiler)
- Interactive tools: You can measure distances between airports directly on the map
- 3D terrain support: The homepage globe gives a realistic view of Earth’s surface
- Privacy-respecting: No tracking, no ads, no external scripts beyond what’s essential
MapLibre is the spiritual successor to Mapbox GL JS, and it aligns perfectly with our goal of building a fast, transparent, and community-friendly tool.
How to Use This Website
- Explore the homepage map
- Zoom, rotate, and tilt the 3D globe to find airports
- Use filters (top bar) to show only certain countries or airport types
- Click any airport marker to open its detail page
- On an airport’s detail page
- View key facts: name, codes, elevation, coordinates
- Use the built-in distance measurement tool to plan routes between airports
- Share the page—each airport has a unique, SEO-friendly URL
- Navigation & accessibility
- On mobile, tap the menu icon (☰) to access “Insights,” “About,” and more
- Keyboard navigation works across filters and map controls
- Filters you set persist when you return—so your preferences are remembered
What’s Next?
We’re continuously improving AirportMaps.net. Here’s what we’re considering for the future:
- Nearby airports – See what’s close to any selected airfield
- Community contributions – Submit corrections or photos (if interest grows)
- Enhanced search – Faster, smarter auto-complete for airport names and codes
- Basic aviation overlays – Non-operational layers like airspace boundaries or navaids (for educational use only)
- Performance refinements – Especially for older devices and mobile connections
We’re keeping the site lightweight, fast, and focused—no bloat, no logins, no paywalls.
Have Feedback?
Since this is a passion project, we welcome your thoughts! If you spot an error, have a feature idea, or just want to say hello, feel free to reach out.
Happy flying—on the map, at least! ✈️