I can see something like this being able to work without paying for access to a flightaware api or something similar as ADS-B rolls out fully. A lot of aviation companies still pay hefty fees to tap into ATC data, that will essentially be made free. ADS-B Out broadcasts identification, position, altitude...

With more aviation geeks out there supplying the data, people won't be reliant on centralized sources of info.

http://www.aopa.org/Advocacy/Air-Traffic-Services-,-a-,-Tech...