Father Christmas is on his annual worldwide journey, and NORAD’s live tracker has him firmly on the map. Santa departed the North Pole earlier today and has been flying across the globe with reindeer-powered precision and holiday magic.
Santa’s Flight Path and Tracking Updates
Early tracking shows Santa flying over Finland, before returning briefly to Greenland—likely for a scheduled stop to refuel his reindeer with carrots, milk, and festive treats.
Flightradar24, the aviation tracking platform that monitors commercial flights globally, is also keeping an eye on Santa’s sleigh during its annual voyage.
“The flight begins each year at 08:00 UTC on December 23, when Santa warms up his reindeer and tests the sleigh,” explained Flightradar24. Using a mix of satellite tracking and magical transponder signals, Santa’s position is updated in real time for children and families worldwide.
A Sleigh Like No Other
Santa’s sleigh is officially registered as HOHOHO (MSN 0001) and is equipped with nine engines, cruising at 60,000 feet—well above commercial aircraft—at a reported ground speed of 1,459 knots.
Experts note that the sleigh’s age of 1,753 years makes it the oldest active airframe in the world. A ninth engine was added in recent years to ensure safe travel under foggy conditions. The sleigh’s bright nose has guided Santa every Christmas Eve since 1939.
Flightradar24 confirmed that the sleigh is now equipped with modern tracking technology, including an ADS-B transponder, allowing precise monitoring of Santa’s route. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has even issued the sleigh a special type designation: SLEI.
Expected Arrival in the UAE
Santa’s journey will take him across Greenland, Canada, the Southern Hemisphere, Australia, and then back through Asia and the Middle East. Based on current tracking and reindeer stamina, Santa is expected to arrive in the UAE between 9 PM and midnight, just in time for Christmas morning.
Tips for a Smooth Santa Visit
Families in the UAE are encouraged to prepare for Santa’s visit:
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Leave out carrots for the reindeer, including Dasher, Dancer, and Rudolph.
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Provide cookies or snacks for Santa.
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Keep rooftops, balconies, and air-conditioning units clear of obstacles.
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Ensure children are asleep for a smooth, chimney-based delivery.
NORAD’s tracker assures families that Santa’s journey, though magical, is closely monitored, ensuring that Christmas joy reaches every home safely.
