Integrate the FlightAware API
- Before making calls to the FlightAware API, include the required PHP libraries to handle HTTP requests. Popular libraries such as GuzzleHTTP or cURL are typically used for this purpose.
- Since FlightAware uses a Base64 encoded username and API key for authentication, ensure you have those credentials available to authenticate your requests.
Initiate a Request to the FlightAware API
- Set up your API endpoint and parameters. For example, to retrieve flight information, you may need endpoints like `FlightInfoStatus` or similar. Always refer to the FlightAware API documentation for accurate endpoints and required parameters.
- Construct an HTTP GET request using your chosen library, including the necessary headers and authentication. This involves combining your username and API key in a Base64 encoded string and setting it in the `Authorization` header.
require 'vendor/autoload.php';
use GuzzleHttp\Client;
$client = new Client();
$response = $client->request('GET', 'https://aviationapi.flightaware.com/json/FlightInfoStatus', [
'headers' => [
'Authorization' => 'Basic ' . base64_encode('username:apiKey'),
],
'query' => [
'ident' => 'flightNumber', // Replace with actual flight number
'howMany' => 1
]
]);
$data = json_decode($response->getBody(), true);
if ($response->getStatusCode() === 200) {
print_r($data);
} else {
echo "Error: " . $response->getStatusCode();
}
Handle the Response
- The FlightAware API response is typically in JSON format. Use PHP's `json_decode` function to parse it into an associative array or object, whichever suits your needs best.
- Implement error handling to manage situations where the API call fails or returns an error code. This can involve checking the HTTP status code and handling responses accordingly.
- Use the data received from the API to display flight information or any other required data.
Apply and Extend Functionality
- Once successful, consider repeating this process for other endpoints offered by the FlightAware API, such as fetching airport information, airline schedules, or building automated notifications.
- Optimize your PHP code by modularizing it, allowing for reusable code segments for repeated API calls.
