As an expert in aviation analytics with a keen interest in real-time flight tracking, I can provide an insightful perspective on the number of planes in the air at any given moment. The aviation industry is a complex and dynamic sector, with thousands of flights taking place worldwide every day. The number of planes in the air at any one time is influenced by a variety of factors, including time of day, day of the week, weather conditions, and global events.

Flight tracking websites and applications, such as Flightradar24, offer a window into this bustling world of aviation. These platforms use a combination of data sources, including ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast), FAA data feeds, and other tracking technologies, to provide real-time updates on the location and status of aircraft around the globe.

On **Friday September 12th, 10:00 Central European Time (8:00 UTC)**, Flightradar24 reported that it was tracking approximately 6000 planes in the air. This number is not static and fluctuates throughout the day. For instance, during peak travel times, particularly in regions with high aviation activity such as the United States, the number of planes in the air can increase significantly. It is not uncommon for the count to rise to 9000-10000 when the US wakes up and begins its day.

It's important to note that the number of planes reported by flight tracking services is not an absolute figure but rather an estimate based on the aircraft they are able to track. Not all aircraft are equipped with the necessary technology to be tracked by these services, and some may be flying in areas without coverage. Additionally, military flights and certain private flights may not be included in public tracking databases for security or privacy reasons.

The aviation industry is also subject to seasonal variations. During holiday seasons, for example, there may be an increase in the number of flights as people travel for leisure or to visit family. Conversely, during periods of economic downturn or global crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of flights can decrease significantly as travel restrictions are imposed and demand for air travel drops.

In conclusion, while it is challenging to provide an exact number of planes in the air at any moment, flight tracking services like Flightradar24 offer a valuable tool for gaining a general understanding of global aviation activity. The number of planes in the air is a dynamic figure, influenced by a myriad of factors and subject to change throughout the day and over time.

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Flightradar24.com - Live flight tracker! shows the number of airplanes that it tracks. Now -- Friday September 12th, 10:00 Central European Time (8:00 UTC) -- there are 6000 planes in the air. When the US wakes up it usually rises to about 9000-10000.read more >>