SpottersWiki - User contributions [en]

Singapore Changi Airport

2009-08-06T21:59:26Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Terminal 2 Public Indoor Viewing Mall */

{{categorybox|Asia|Singapore}}

{{infobox|fullname= Singapore Changi Airport |
location=Changi, Singapore|
iata=SIN|
icao=WSSS|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.changiairport.com/|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Singapore+Changi+Airport&sll=50.363725,3.113053&sspn=0.092312,0.111408&ie=UTF8&ll=1.345363,103.982003&spn=0.144671,0.111408&t=h&z=13|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.25MHz, 118.60MHz|
atcground=121.72MHz, 124.30MHz|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=120.30MHz|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=128.60MHz|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
Although there are no "official" spotting locations in Singapore Changi Airport, there are public viewing malls located within the terminals. All the viewing malls are air-conditioned and there are ample seats available. Listed below are a more in-depth review of the respective viewing malls.

===Terminal 1 Public Indoor Viewing Mall===
This area is just about the only place in the airport which you can spot. There are ample seats in this air-conditioned viewing mall, a food court and a pub on the same level, and restrooms located nearby, making the place rather comfortable. Currently occupying the east side of the terminal, it provides a clear view of the central apron, as well as movements along the three North Cross taxiways. Aircraft parked at the remote bays off the terminal, the cargo terminal and at SIAEC hangars are also visible from a distance, although the many obstacles make a full, unblocked view of the aircraft there impossible. Also visible are 20R departures and landings, 20C landings, and 02R and 02C departures, but from a distance.

The usual aircraft parked at the central apron include Garuda 737s, Qantas A330s, Cathay Pacific and JetStar A320s. It is advisable to check the gates of the flights online at the airport website (information is usually online up to 12 hours before, although for shorter flights this may only be available about 2 hours before the arrival of the flight) as on some days there are very few flights using the central apron whilst on other days it can be full house there.

The required lens focal length to spot here would be about 18mm-300mm for most shots, although 400mm will be useful to shoot A320/B737 Family aircraft or the occasional private jet taxing on North Cross 3.

The viewing mall is located one floor above the departure hall. Escalators to the viewing mall are located next to Immigration East (near check-in row 9 and 10).

Note: Due to the upgrading at T1 a portion of this spot is now closed for upgrading.

{{anetlink|1361074}}
{{anetlink|1361112}}

===Terminal 2 Public Indoor Viewing Mall===
The viewing mall hear offers a view of many Singapore Airlines 777s, SilkAir and Malaysian Airlines aircraft, which are the main users of Terminal 2. Movements on 20C/02C are also visible. However, this location is unsuitable for photography, firstly as the glass panels are tinted green, and secondly the transit mall extends under the viewing mall, effectively placing two layers of glass in front of you, and a lot of panel frames to contend with. The sunshades also block you from looking at eye level, instead you have to look downwards to see the aircraft parked at the apron.

The relatively small size of the viewing mall also means that it tends to get crowded often, especially on weekends. There are many restaurants on the same level, which you will pass by before you get to the viewing mall.

The viewing mall is located one floor above the departure hall. Escalators are located between Immigration North and South, near check-in rows 5 and 6 and rows 7 and 8. There are signs that will guide you to the location.

Note: as at 6th August 2009 this Viewing Mall is closed for redevelopment.

===Terminal 3 Public Indoor Viewing Mall===
The viewing mall here offers a different angle of view from the other viewing malls at Changi, giving you a more aerial-like view of the apron. Aircraft that can be seen from here are Singapore Airlines heavies, movements on 20R/02L, and in the morning and evening, the A380. However, just like at Terminal 2, the transit lounge extends beyond the viewing mall, thus the two layers of glass frames block clear views of the planes. Photography here is also near impossible.

Do note that the viewing mall tends to get crowded during the weekends but due to its large area this is quite tolerable. There is a restaurant located within the viewing gallery (Earl's Swensons) and it is a good place to dine and watch the planes at the same time!

The viewing mall is located two floors above the departure hall. There are four escalators to access the viewing mall, two at the central immigration area (between rows 4 - 5 and 6 - 7) and two at the ends of the green wall (near row 1 and row 11). There are signs to guide you.

===Transit Malls===
The transit malls will offer you one of the best locations to spot, giving you close views of aircraft parked at the gates. This is especially so in Terminals 2 and 3, where the aircraft wingtips are just metres away from the glass.
At Changi, your best bet will be to walk in a straight line after clearing immigration (you have to walk around the shops sometimes though) and you will reach the big glass panels where you can get a good view of the planes.
Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are connected by skytrain so you can hop around terminals to spot if time permits. Walking between terminals is another option. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the terminal.
There are different things to take note of in each terminal, as written below.

'''Terminal 1'''

Here, the 'big glass panel' is actually only one floor high, and heavily tinted. There are restaurant seats lining the area so you may not have the space to spot at this window. Do note that at night you can see nothing from this windows.

'''Terminal 2'''

There are big glass panels spanning the height of the terminal here. The planes come rather close here, especially if you are lucky to catch a 747 turning into gate F31. F31 is the first gate to be A380-ready, and you can see the three jetways from here. The gate right next to the glass usually sees only A320 and B737s, but even then their wingtips come close to the glass. This place is very well lit at night, especially the colourful shop signs, so do watch out for reflections. There is also a very useful ledge (which is actually the glass panel frame) which can be used for a tripod at night, or a support to stabilise your shots in the day, and is wide enough to accomodate a DSLR and certain lenses. Movements on the T2 central apron, as well as on 20C/02C can be seen from here. Do note that the glass is tinted green, and it can affect your pictures, so watch your colours closely.

'''Terminal 3'''

Like Terminal 2, large glass panels span the height of the terminal. Down here you can see 20R/02L movements, as well as planes parked at the gates in front of the glass. The A380 parks at the A-gates in front of the glass every day. Do note that the glass is tinted green, and it can affect your pictures, so watch your colours closely. Best for morning shots.

==Other Spotting Locations==
===Changi Beach Park===
This is the best place to spot aircraft arriving on runway 20R and 20C. Most of the time aircraft bound for Terminal 3 or cargo aircraft use 20R, aircraft bound for Terminal 2 use 20C and aircraft heading for Terminal 1 can use either runway except during runway maintenence which would usually last 20-30 mins and arrival traffic would temporarily be diverted to the other runway. Runway maintenence only occurs once every 6-7 hours. As the landing path is such that the plane's entire body will face the sun, it is important to know where to position yourself to get a sunlit shot of the aircraft. The park has a walking path which you can use to find the best position before walking onto the shore to spot.

'''In the morning''': For 20R arrivals it would be best to go to carpark 5. Depending on your lens you can walk around to align yourself in the best spot. For 20C you can try carpark 7 although the angle will be a little awkward and slightly more difficult to shoot.

'''In the afternoon/evening''': For 20R arrivals go to carpark 3. 20C arrivals are best shot from the beach after carpark 6.

Carpark 4 is best for head-on shots.

You will need a focal length of around 50mm to 150mm depending on where you stand and the size of the aircraft.

Public bus services are available to carparks 2 to 5. You will need a car to get to carpark 6 or 7.

Runway 20R/20C is usually used between March-October after which landings are changed to 02L/02C due to seasonal wind changes. Also note that listening to VHF radios is strictly forbidden and hefty fines are given to those caught listening or using it.

<googlemap version="0.9" lat="1.390696" lon="103.995488" zoom="17">1.390911, 103.993578Carpark 3 and 41.39001, 103.996056Carpark 5</googlemap>

{{anetlink|1359616}}

===Changi Business Park===
This is the best place to spot aircraft arriving on runway 02L, in most cases most aircraft would land on this runway between October-February. This area is an industrial park so a car is necessary as the nearest bus stop is roughly about 1.5km away from the area best to spot arriving aircraft. Due to this area being industrial, it tends to be filled with heavy vehicles driving around the area during the weekdays so it is advisable to spot at this area only during the weekends as you can easily park your car anywhere without blocking or disrupting anyone. As this area is more built up than Changi Beach Park, finding a spot which has an unobstructed view might be difficult so I have listed down one of the unobstructed locations.

<googlemap version="0.9" lat="1.340424" lon="103.970747" zoom="16">1.337443, 103.971026Spot 1</googlemap>

==Locations to Avoid==
===Changi Coast Road===
The perimeter fence along this area is double-fenced, preventing a clear view of the airport. Only the emergency gates have a single fencing. From here, you have a side-on view of runway 20C/02C operations, the entire Terminal 2 and gates D40 to D49 of Terminal 1. Note that photography of airport buildings is illegal and action can be taken especially if you are using a dSLR. Parking in front of the emergency gates is also prohibited. This area is regularly patrolled by police both within and outside the airport, who will not hesitate to stop and request you to leave.
The location requires either a car or a bicycle to get there as it is a good 5km to the nearest bus stop and taxis don't usually pick-up passengers from the Coast Road. There is a park connector which is separated from the perimeter fence by the Changi Coast Road with occasional shelters along the path. This park connector offers you a view of the airport as well, but obstructed by the double fencing. Unless you are familiar with the area or are with someone who is, do not stay here for too long. You are also advised to comply fully with any police instructions if you encounter police as they can, and will, take action against those who fail to do so.

{{anetlink|1358211}}

==Regular Traffic==

===Terminal 1===

Air China (Beijing via Xiamen B737-800 daily; Beijing B767-300/ER daily)
 Air France (Paris CDG B777-300ER daily) 
Air India / Indian Airlines (A310, A320, A321, A330-200)
 Air India Express (B737-800) 
Air Mauritius (A330-200)
 Air Zimbabwe (B767-200ER) 
AirAsia (A320)
 Asiana Airlines (Seoul Incheon A330-300 daily)* 
Bangkok Airways (Koh Samui via Bangkok A319 daily)*
 Best Air (Dhaka via Kuala Lumpur MD80 Mon, Fri) 
Biman Bangladesh Airlines (B737-800)
 British Airways (London Heathrow & Sydney B747-400, B777-200 daily) 
Cathay Pacific Airways (Hong Kong A330-300, A340-300, B777-200/300 daily; Hong Kong via Bangkok B777 daily)
 China Airlines (Taipei A330-300 daily; Kaohsiung B737-800) 
China Southern Airlines (Guangzhou & Shenyang A321 daily)
 Emirates (B777-300/ER) 
EVA Air (Taipei A330-300)
 Garuda Indonesia (A330-300, B737-300/500/800) 
Indonesia AirAsia (Pekanbaru B737 daily)
 Japan Airlines (B747-400, B767-200, B777-200) 
JetStar (A320)
 JetStar Airways International (Cairns, Darwin, Melbourne & Perth A320 daily) 
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Amsterdam B777-200 daily)
 Korean Air (Seoul Incheon B777-300 daily)* 
Lion Airlines (Jakarta Bali, Ho Chi Minh B737-900ER daily)
 Northwest Airlines (Minneapolis via Tokyo Narita A330-300 daily)* 
Qantas Airways (A330-300, B737-800, B747-400)
 Saudi Arabian (B747-300) 
SriLankan Airlines (A330-200, A340-300)
 Thai AirAsia (A320, B737-300) 
Thai Airways International (Bangkok A300-600, A330-300, A340-500/600, B777-200 daily)
 Transaero Airlines (Moscow B767-200 Mon) 
Turkish Airlines (B777-300ER except Wed)
 Valuair (A320) 
Vietnam Airlines (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh A321 daily)
 Xiamen Airlines (Xiamen, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Fuzhou B737-700/800 daily) 

===Terminal 2===
All Nippon Airways - ANA (Tokyo Narita B767-300ER daily)
 Etihad (A330-200) 
Lufthansa German Airlines (Munich A340-300, Frankfurt, Jakarta B747-400 daily)
 Malaysia Airlines (A330, B737-400) 
Philippine Airlines (Manila A320 daily)
 Royal Brunei (Bandar Seri Bengawan A320) 
Shenzhen Airlines (Nanning B737-800 Wed, Sat)
 SilkAir (A319, A320) 
Singapore Airlines (B777-200/200ER/300/300ER)
 Sriwijaya Air (Jakarta B737 daily) 

===Terminal 3===

Jet Airways (A330-200, New Delhi B737-800 daily)
 China Eastern Airlines (Shanghai A300-600R, A330-200 daily) 
Qatar Airways (Doha A330-300 daily)
 Singapore Airlines (A340-500, A380, B747-400, B777-200/200ER/300/300ER) 
United Airlines (Chicago & Hong Kong B747-400 daily, Washington DC & Tokyo Narita B777-200 daily)

===Budget Terminal===

Cebu Pacific (A320)
 Tiger Airways (A320) 

===Cargo Airlines===

Air Hong Kong (A300F)
 Asiana Cargo (B747F) 
Cargolux (B747F)
 Cathay Pacific Cargo (B747F) 
Lufthansa Cargo (MD11)
 FedEx Express (A300F, MD11F) 
Jett8 Airlines Cargo (B742F)
 Nippon Cargo Airlines (B747F) 
Singapore Airlines Cargo (B744F)
 Shanghai Airlines Cargo (B757F) 
United Parcel Service (B757)

Actual arrival and departure times of cargo airlines often vary from the scheduled departure time. You can check the airport website for updated flight information.

Airlines with night flight operations only marked with (*)

==Facilities and Transportation==
===To Changi Airport===
There are a few ways to get to Changi Airport by public transport.
# '''MRT''' The MRT(train/subway system) is a quick and comfortable way to get to the airport. From the city, board the eastbound green line (East-West Line) train to Tanah Merah Station (EW4). This takes about 20 mimutes. From there, transfer to the airport-bound train, which takes you to the airport in 8 minutes. The MRT station is located between Terminal 2 and 3, and you can exit to either terminal. Directional signs are visible once you arrive. A one-way trip will cost about SGD2.90 inclusive of a SGD1.00 refundable deposit for the ticket. There are system and location maps in every station, as well as travel information such as the travel time to a station.
# '''Public bus''' Public bus services also run from the city and many town centres islandwide. The bus services will stop at each terminal(located at the basement level), calling at Terminal 3 first, then Terminal 1, Terminal 2 and the Budget Terminal before heading back to its destination of origin. Information on bus services is available at the bus terminals at the airport. Fares are about SGD0.90 to SGD1.80 by a contactless card or cash, depending on where you are heading. Bus services available are SBS Transit 24, 27, 34, 36, 53 and SMRT 858.
# '''Taxi''' Metered taxis can be flagged down along the streets and at airport taxi stands. However, in the business district, you can only board or alight at taxi stands. Fares start from SGD2.60 and increase with distance. Surcharges apply during certain times(such as morning/evening peak periods and after midnight, or when boarding from certain places). Fare information can be found in every taxi.

===To Outdoor Locations===
To get to Changi Beach Park, bus services 9, 19, and 89 are available.
From the airport, you may follow this route:

# Take Bus Service 34 from the Airport to Tampines Avenue 7 Block 497D Bus Stop (it's near a petrol kiosk)
# Cross the road to the other side from the overhead bridge
# Take Bus Service 9 or 19 to Changi Beach Park

Do note that the bus will make a loop at the Cargo Complex and it is not allowed for people without a pass to enter, so get off the bus by Carpark 5

Just a 10 minute walk from the beach is Changi Village which has many restaurants and a hawker center which serves a multitude local delights at resonable prices. There is a hotel called Changi VIllage Hotel located very close to the beach so if you plan to do most spotting at Changi Beach, it is advisable to stay there, there is also an Italian Restaurant located at the top floor of the hotel which offers lovely views of aircraft landing while dining (this is even more lovely during sunset), if you are a guest, the hotel also includes complementary shuttle services to the city center.

All other locations are best accessed by car. You can also hire a taxi to take you there, but it is often difficult to find one to take you out after spotting as these tend to be quiet areas, especially during weekends.

==Things to Note==
===Weather===
There is no dangerous weather here, but a rather big problem for spotters in tropical Singapore is the frequent and often unpredictable showers. Rain showers can last anything from ten minutes to a few days non-stop (especially so during the rainy season). A check with the weather forecast before you head off will be good, especially if you have limited time as many locations require nearly an hour of travel time each way if going by public transport, especially the public bus.
However, if there is lightning and thunder, take shelter and do not go outdoors until the storm is over.

===Changi Beach Area===
Changi Beach and Changi Village are pretty unsafe at night as it will turn into a "red-light" district by the wee hours of the night, so it is not advisable to venture out to Changi Beach Park too late at night unless you are staying at Changi Village Hotel or are camping at the park (permits are required for weekdays) but it is also not advisable to camp at the beach if you are unfamiliar with the area.

===Budget Terminal===
Another thing to note is that taking photographs while boarding aircraft at the budget terminal (for Tiger Airways and Cebu Pacific flights only) is strictly forbidden and police officers are always on the lookout for anyone taking photographs especially since one is so close to the aircraft.

Frankfurt Main Airport

2008-04-24T09:05:36Z

FreebyrdUK:

{{categorybox|Europe|Germany}}

{{infobox|fullname=Frankfurt Main Airport|
location=Frankfurt, Germany|
iata=FRA|
icao=EDDF|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.airportcity-frankfurt.com|
mapurl=http://maps.google.de/maps?f=q&hl=de&q=Frankfurt&layer=&ie=UTF8&z=13&ll=50.021638,8.5429&spn=0.077535,0.187626&t=k&om=1|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=119.900, 124.850 Mhz|
atcground=121.800 Mhz|
atcclearance=121.900 Mhz|
atcapproach=118.500, 120.800 Mhz|
atcdeparture=120.150, 136.125, 352.400 Mhz|
atcatis=118.025|
atcunicom=}}

==Official Spotting Locations==

FRA has two observation decks, Terminal 1 is currently closed. Terminal 2 is confirmed as fully open following onsite visit - updated 12th March 2008

===Terminal 1, Concourse B Observation Deck===
The open observation deck is in Terminal 1, Concourse B. The fee to get on the observation deck is 3€ for adults and 2€ for teenagers up to 15 years of age, students, and handicapped people. It is free of charge for those under 6 years of age.

:'''The opening times are:'''

:November - February: 10:00 - 18:30h
:March - October: 8:00 - 20:30h

'''This observation deck will also be closed 28.12.2005.'''

From the observation deck you can see the '''25L/R''' approach pretty well, better than '''07L/R'''. You are standing very close to the gates, so you will get good photo opportunities for planes that are being pushed back and for the ones that are pulling up to the gate. Here are just a couple of examples of photos taken from the deck.

<gallery>
Image:GulfAirA343Taxi18.jpg|Gulf Air A340-300 taxiing by the deck.
Image:PPVREWaiting.jpg|Varig 777-200 taxiing to the gate.
Image:KuwaitA300.jpg|Kuwait Airways A300-600 touching down on 25R.
Image:Varig_777_Head_On_Close.jpg|Varig 777-200 coming right at me.
</gallery>

===Terminal 2, Concourse E Observation Deck===
The observation deck is in Terminal 2, Concourse E right next to McDonald's.

This observation deck is now reported as reopened (see Airports of the World, September-October 2007 issue). It is open between 10:00 and 17:00 daily with an entrance charge of €2.50. Visitors must pass through a security check and no sharp or dangerous objects can be carried.

===Viewing Platform next to rwy 18 and approach 07===
Right next to '''rwy 18''' (south departure) there is a concrete platform for viewing purposes. However there is a fence between you and the runway, and you will need a small ladder to shoot over it. An A321 will need 100mm right in front of you.
From here you can also see the '''07L/R''' approach. For an A321 on 07R you need around 180mm, for an A330 around 110mm. For 07L approach you need around 240mm for a 747...

There is a road right next to the airport called "Airportring". Take that from the Terminal towards the west, which is where '''rwy 18''' is located. The road will make a left turn and shortly after another left turn. Right in the middle of that second left turn there is a parking lot on the right where you can park. From there you can walk to the platform. It is just a 2-3 minute walk from there.

'''Getting there by bus/train'''
Take bus 5514 from Terminal 1. It runs usually every 30 minutes. Get off the bus at "Tor 31", you have to walk back from this bus stop to runway 18W (point 3) but be prepared for a 20-30-minute walk. Another possibility to get to 18W is to exit bus 5514 at "Tor 26" and passing the threshold of 07L and 07R. This takes also about 20-30 Minutes.
Try [http://www.rmv.de www.rmv.de] for timetables.

==Other Spotting Locations==
===25L/R approach===
If the winds are in favor of the '''25L/R''' being used, which is the case most of the times, there is one spot in particular where you can take really good photos of the approaching aircraft. Especially on the weekends you will run into quite a few fellow spotters there. Since this spot brings you pretty close to the action you won't be needing a lot of focal length to get good results. 200mm will be enough to cover the aircraft coming in on '''25L'''. However, since you will be standing closer to '''25L''' the right approach will still be kind of far, so to ensure that you can get all the pictures you want you might actually need a 400mm lens. Just a few examples to show the different motives at this spot.

<gallery>
Image:HZ-AKDTaxiing25.jpg|Saudi Arabian B777-200 taxiing in between 25L/R.
Image:Yemenia33025ApproachII.jpg|Yemenia A330-200 right over my head.
Image:D-ARFETaxi18.jpg|Aero Flight A320 taxiing to rwy 18 using the backway.
Image:D-AIHKApprGoodWeather.jpg|Lufthansa A340-600 approaching 25L.
</gallery>

To get to this location from the airport you will have to get on the Autobahn A5 towards Basel. Get off at the first exit called "Zeppelinheim". After getting off the Autobahn you just drive straight for about 400m and then take a left. There will be a sign for a Recreational Area. Just follow that. That will lead you into a forest and there will be a small parking lot. Park there, since that will be as close as you can get with your car. From there it is a 5 minute walk towards the airport. You will cross the A5 on a bridge and then you're there. Just pick a spot and have fun!

'''Getting there by bus/train'''
From the airport you have to go to Sportfeld with S8 or S9 first and change there for Zeppelinheim on line S7. From Zeppelinheim Station take the exit to the west. The road through the forest will lead directly to the spot.
An easy alternative is to take bus OF-64 which runs usually every 30 minutes from Terminal 1 (when in you are in Terminal 2 get on the bus at "Hugo-Eckener-Ring" - a bus station at the big road in front of T2). Bus no. OF-51 runs every 60 minutes from Terminal 2. In both cases you have to exit at the stop Luftbrückendenkmal (US-Air-Base) and walk back a few meters along the airport fence.
From the Main Station just take S7 to Zeppelinheim.
Try [http://www.rmv.de www.rmv.de] for timetables.

===07L/R Approach===
Should the situation of a '''07L/R''' approach occur, you have two choices. You can either go to the platform next to '''rwy 18''' as I described already, or there is a small parking lot on either side of the road on the way to the platform, where you can park and then spot. You will be right in between of the left and the right approach. No matter which choice you like better, the approaching planes can't be seen until they're almost right in front of you, so you won't know long in advance what's coming in.

Just take the "Airportring" as described in how to get to the viewing platform next to '''rwy 18''', but park in the lots shortly after the first left turn.

'''Getting there by bus/train'''
Take bus 5514 from Terminal 1. It runs usually every 30 minutes. Get off the bus at "Tor 31", you have to walk back from this bus stop to runway 18W (point 3) but be prepared for a 20-30-minute walk. Another possibility to get to 18W is to exit bus 5514 at "Tor 26" and passing the threshold of 07L and 07R. This takes also about 20-30 Minutes.
Try [http://www.rmv.de www.rmv.de] for timetables.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Frankfurt Main Airport

2007-09-08T12:17:21Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Terminal 2, Concourse E Observation Deck */

[[Category:Germany]]
{{categorynoregion|Europe|Germany}}

{{infobox|fullname=Frankfurt Main Airport|
location=Frankfurt, Germany|
iata=FRA|
icao=EDDF|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.airportcity-frankfurt.com|
mapurl=http://maps.google.de/maps?f=q&hl=de&q=Frankfurt&layer=&ie=UTF8&z=13&ll=50.021638,8.5429&spn=0.077535,0.187626&t=k&om=1|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=119.900, 124.850 Mhz|
atcground=121.800 Mhz|
atcclearance=121.900 Mhz|
atcapproach=118.500, 120.800 Mhz|
atcdeparture=120.150, 136.125, 352.400 Mhz|
atcatis=118.025|
atcunicom=}}

==Official Spotting Locations==

FRA has two observation decks, both are now closed

===Terminal 1, Concourse B Observation Deck===
The open observation deck is in Terminal 1, Concourse B. The fee to get on the observation deck is 3€ for adults and 2€ for teenagers up to 15 years of age, students, and handicapped people. It is free of charge for those under 6 years of age.

:'''The opening times are:'''

:November - February: 10:00 - 18:30h
:March - October: 8:00 - 20:30h

'''This observation deck will also be closed 28.12.2005.'''

From the observation deck you can see the '''25L/R''' approach pretty well, better than '''07L/R'''. You are standing very close to the gates, so you will get good photo opportunities for planes that are being pushed back and for the ones that are pulling up to the gate. Here are just a couple of examples of photos taken from the deck.

<gallery>
Image:GulfAirA343Taxi18.jpg|Gulf Air A340-300 taxiing by the deck.
Image:PPVREWaiting.jpg|Varig 777-200 taxiing to the gate.
Image:KuwaitA300.jpg|Kuwait Airways A300-600 touching down on 25R.
Image:Varig_777_Head_On_Close.jpg|Varig 777-200 coming right at me.
</gallery>

===Terminal 2, Concourse E Observation Deck (closed)===
The observation deck is in Terminal 2, Concourse E right next to McDonald's.

This observation deck is now reported as reopened (see Airports of the World, September-October 2007 issue). It is open between 10:00 and 17:00 daily with an entrance charge of €2.50. Visitors must pass through a security check and no sharp or dangerous objects can be carried.

===Viewing Platform next to rwy 18 and approach 07===
Right next to '''rwy 18''' (south departure) there is a concrete platform for viewing purposes. However there is a fence between you and the runway, and you will need a small ladder to shoot over it. An A321 will need 100mm right in front of you.
From here you can also see the '''07L/R''' approach. For an A321 on 07R you need around 180mm, for an A330 around 110mm. For 07L approach you need around 240mm for a 747...

There is a road right next to the airport called "Airportring". Take that from the Terminal towards the west, which is where '''rwy 18''' is located. The road will make a left turn and shortly after another left turn. Right in the middle of that second left turn there is a parking lot on the right where you can park. From there you can walk to the platform. It is just a 2-3 minute walk from there.

==Other Spotting Locations==
===25L/R approach===
If the winds are in favor of the '''25L/R''' being used, which is the case most of the times, there is one spot in particular where you can take really good photos of the approaching aircraft. Especially on the weekends you will run into quite a few fellow spotters there. Since this spot brings you pretty close to the action you won't be needing a lot of focal length to get good results. 200mm will be enough to cover the aircraft coming in on '''25L'''. However, since you will be standing closer to '''25L''' the right approach will still be kind of far, so to ensure that you can get all the pictures you want you might actually need a 400mm lens. Just a few examples to show the different motives at this spot.

<gallery>
Image:HZ-AKDTaxiing25.jpg|Saudi Arabian B777-200 taxiing in between 25L/R.
Image:Yemenia33025ApproachII.jpg|Yemenia A330-200 right over my head.
Image:D-ARFETaxi18.jpg|Aero Flight A320 taxiing to rwy 18 using the backway.
Image:D-AIHKApprGoodWeather.jpg|Lufthansa A340-600 approaching 25L.
</gallery>

To get to this location from the airport you will have to get on the Autobahn A5 towards Basel. Get off at the first exit called "Zeppelinheim". After getting off the Autobahn you just drive straight for about 400m and then take a left. There will be a sign for a Recreational Area. Just follow that. That will lead you into a forest and there will be a small parking lot. Park there, since that will be as close as you can get with your car. From there it is a 5 minute walk towards the airport. You will cross the A5 on a bridge and then you're there. Just pick a spot and have fun!

===07L/R Approach===
Should the situation of a '''07L/R''' approach occur, you have two choices. You can either go to the platform next to '''rwy 18''' as I described already, or there is a small parking lot on either side of the road on the way to the platform, where you can park and then spot. You will be right in between of the left and the right approach. No matter which choice you like better, the approaching planes can't be seen until they're almost right in front of you, so you won't know long in advance what's coming in.

Just take the "Airportring" as described in how to get to the viewing platform next to '''rwy 18''', but park in the lots shortly after the first left turn.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Paris Orly Airport

2007-07-28T11:38:27Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Official Spotting Locations */

[[Category:France]]
{{categorynoregion|Europe|France}}

{{infobox|fullname=Paris Orly Airport|location=Paris, France|iata=ORY|icao=LFPO|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/|mapurl=|mapsource=|atctower=118.70|atcground=|atcclearance=|atcapproach=128.85/123.875|atcdeparture=|atcatis=126.50|atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
There is an excellent rooftop terrace on the seventh floor of the South Terminal (Orly Sud). Free to get there and with a clear view of the South apron and traffic on Runway 08/26. The area is covered with netting as a security measure but this doesn't impede the view. Information current as of July 2007.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Paris Orly Airport

2007-07-28T11:37:49Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Official Spotting Locations */

[[Category:France]]
{{categorynoregion|Europe|France}}

{{infobox|fullname=Paris Orly Airport|location=Paris, France|iata=ORY|icao=LFPO|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/|mapurl=|mapsource=|atctower=118.70|atcground=|atcclearance=|atcapproach=128.85/123.875|atcdeparture=|atcatis=126.50|atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
There is an excellent rooftop terrace on the seventh floor of the South Terminal (Orly Sud). Free to get there and with a clear view of the South apron and traffic on Runway 08/26. The area is covered with netting as a security measure but this doesn't impede the view.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Suvarnabhumi Airport

2007-04-03T00:34:52Z

FreebyrdUK:

[[Category:Thailand]]
{{categorynoregion|Asia|Thailand}}

{{infobox|fullname=Bangkok International Airport Suvarnabhumi|
location=Racha Thewa, Thailand|
iata=BKK|
icao=VTBS|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.airportthai.co.th/airportnew/sun/index.asp|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
===Spectator's Terrace===

At the back of the main check-in area you can ascend a series of escalator/steps or use a lift to the official spectator's gallery. This is truly awful, especially compared to the old terrace at Don Muang. You have to duck down to get a view of only one of the main parking areas. Nowhere to sit except in the adjacent meditation area which would be considered disrespectful in this very religious country.

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Suvarnabhumi Airport

2007-04-03T00:34:28Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Official Spotting Locations */

[[Category:Thailand]]
{{categorynoregion|Asia|Thailand}}

{{infobox|fullname=Bangkok International Airport Suvarnabhumi|
location=Racha Thewa, Thailand|
iata=BKK|
icao=VTBS|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.airportthai.co.th/airportnew/sun/index.asp|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
===Spectator's Terrace===

At the back of the main check-in area you can ascend a series of escalator/steps or use a lift to the official spectator's gallery. This is truly awful, especially compared to the old terrace at Don Muang. You have to duck down to get a view of only one of the main parking areas. Nowhere to sit except in the adjacent meditation area which would be considered disrespectful in this very religious country.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Bangkok International Airport

2007-04-03T00:32:49Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Spectator's Gallery */

[[Category:Thailand]]
{{categorynoregion|Asia|Thailand}}

{{infobox|fullname= Bangkok International Airport Don Muang|
location=Bangkok, Thailand|
iata=DMK|
icao=VTBD|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.airportthai.co.th/airportnew/bangkok/index.asp|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==

===Spectator's Terrace===
An excellent spectator's terrace runs along the length of the International Terminal 1. Great for spotting though the far runway is still a little distant even with good binoculars. Note that recently, just before the official closure of the airport, security was somewhat tighter and the author was given some serious questioning by heavily armed police. All ended in handshakes but with list of registrations handed in. The thais are most understanding and hospitible people but times are tense in Bangkok. The airport is now due to reopen again following problems at the new Suvaranabhumi airport. Not sure on the status of the terrace as a result.

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Airport Hotel - Comfort Suites===
The Comfort Suites Airport Bangkok Hotel provides some really good views of departing and arriving aircraft.
The hotel has a pool area facing the airport, and from here there is a stair along the hotel wall, leading up to the roof. This is a great spot for arrivals 03L and departures from 21R. You can also book a room for a very good price and if you get one on the top floor facing the airport (I got room 616) you can actually shoot from your balcony.

<gallery>
image:BKK AF747.jpg|This shot of an Air France B747 is taken from the roof as the aircraft climbs out of runway 21R.
image:BKK QF747.jpg|This shot of a Qantas B747 is from the balcony of room 616.
</gallery>

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Bangkok International Airport

2007-04-02T17:29:59Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Official Spotting Locations */

[[Category:Thailand]]
{{categorynoregion|Asia|Thailand}}

{{infobox|fullname= Bangkok International Airport Don Muang|
location=Bangkok, Thailand|
iata=BKK|
icao=VTBD|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.airportthai.co.th/airportnew/bangkok/index.asp|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
At the back of the main check-in area you can ascend a series of escalator/steps or use a lift to the official spectators gallery. This is truely aweful, especially compared to the old terrace at Don Muang. You have to duck down to get a view of only one of the main parking areas. Nowhere to sit except in the adjacent meditation area which would be considered disrespectful in this very religious country.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Airport Hotel - Comfort Suites===
The Comfort Suites Airport Bangkok Hotel provides some really good views of departing and arriving aircraft.
The hotel has a pool area facing the airport, and from here there is a stair along the hotel wall, leading up to the roof. This is a great spot for arrivals 03L and departures from 21R. You can also book a room for a very good price and if you get one on the top floor facing the airport (I got room 616) you can actually shoot from your balcony.

<gallery>
image:BKK AF747.jpg|This shot of an Air France B747 is taken from the roof as the aircraft climbs out of runway 21R.
image:BKK QF747.jpg|This shot of a Qantas B747 is from the balcony of room 616.
</gallery>

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Bangkok International Airport

2007-04-02T17:29:47Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Official Spotting Locations */

[[Category:Thailand]]
{{categorynoregion|Asia|Thailand}}

{{infobox|fullname= Bangkok International Airport Don Muang|
location=Bangkok, Thailand|
iata=BKK|
icao=VTBD|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.airportthai.co.th/airportnew/bangkok/index.asp|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
At the back of the main check-in area you can ascend a series of escalator/steps or use a lift to the official spectators gallery. This is truely aweful, especially copmpared to the old terrace at Don Muang. You have to duck down to get a view of only one of the main parking areas. Nowhere to sit except in the adjacent meditation area which would be considered disrespectful in this very religious country.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Airport Hotel - Comfort Suites===
The Comfort Suites Airport Bangkok Hotel provides some really good views of departing and arriving aircraft.
The hotel has a pool area facing the airport, and from here there is a stair along the hotel wall, leading up to the roof. This is a great spot for arrivals 03L and departures from 21R. You can also book a room for a very good price and if you get one on the top floor facing the airport (I got room 616) you can actually shoot from your balcony.

<gallery>
image:BKK AF747.jpg|This shot of an Air France B747 is taken from the roof as the aircraft climbs out of runway 21R.
image:BKK QF747.jpg|This shot of a Qantas B747 is from the balcony of room 616.
</gallery>

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:25:31Z

FreebyrdUK:

[[Category:England]]
{{categorywithregion|Europe|United Kingdom|England}}

{{infobox|fullname=Compton Abbas Airfield|
location=Compton Abbas, Dorset, England|
iata=N/A|
icao=EGHA|
aptype=Public|
website=http://www.abbasair.com/|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=122.70|
atcground=122.70|
atcclearance=122.70|
atcapproach=122.70|
atcdeparture=122.70|
atcatis=N/A|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
A very spotter friendly location. From either the main car park or the cafe inside the main clubhouse it is possible top get a full view of operating traffic and of parked visitors.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==
General / club aviation. There is also a movie arecraft collection here and a number of annual events are held including a Pooley's Fly-In.

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:24:37Z

FreebyrdUK:

[[Category:England]]
{{categorywithregion|Europe|United Kingdom|England}}

{{infobox|fullname=Compton Abbas Airfield|
location=Compton Abbas, Dorset, England|
iata=N/A|
icao=EGHA|
aptype=Public|
website=[http://www.abbasair.com/]|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=122.70|
atcground=122.70|
atcclearance=122.70|
atcapproach=122.70|
atcdeparture=122.70|
atcatis=N/A|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
A very spotter friendly location. From either the main car park or the cafe inside the main clubhouse it is possible top get a full view of operating traffic and of parked visitors.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==
General / club aviation. There is also a movie arecraft collection here and a number of annual events are held including a Pooley's Fly-In.

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:22:04Z

FreebyrdUK:

[[Category:United Kingdom]]
{{categorywithregion|||}}

{{infobox|fullname=Compton Abbas Airfield|
location=Compton Abbas, Dorset, England|
iata=N/A|
icao=EGHA|
aptype=Public|
website=[http://www.abbasair.com/]|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=122.70|
atcground=122.70|
atcclearance=122.70|
atcapproach=122.70|
atcdeparture=122.70|
atcatis=N/A|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
A very spotter friendly location. From either the main car park or the cafe inside the main clubhouse it is possible top get a full view of operating traffic and of parked visitors.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==
General / club aviation. There is also a movie arecraft collection here and a number of annual events are held including a Pooley's Fly-In.

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:19:19Z

FreebyrdUK:

[[Category:United Kingdom]]
{{categorywithregion|||}}

{{infobox|fullname=Compton Abbas Airfield|
location=|
iata=|
icao=EGHA|
aptype=Public|
website=[http://www.abbasair.com/]|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
A very spotter friendly location. From either the main car park or the cafe inside the main clubhouse it is possible top get a full view of operating traffic and of parked visitors.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==
General / club aviation. There is also a movie arecraft collection here and a number of annual events are held including a Pooley's Fly-In.

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:17:30Z

FreebyrdUK:

[[Category:United Kingdom]]
{{categorywithregion|||}}

{{infobox|fullname=Compton Abbas Airfield|
location=|
iata=|
icao=|EGHA|
aptype=|Public|
website=|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
A very spotter friendly location. From either the main car park or the cafe inside the main clubhouse it is possible top get a full view of operating traffic and of parked visitors.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==
General / club aviation. There is also a movie arecraft collection here and a number of annual events are held including a Pooley's Fly-In.

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:12:42Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Regular Traffic */

[[Category:United Kingdom]]
{{categorywithregion|||}}

{{infobox|fullname=|
location=|
iata=|
icao=|EGHA|
aptype=|Public|
website=|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
A very spotter friendly location. From either the main car park or the cafe inside the main clubhouse it is possible top get a full view of operating traffic and of parked visitors.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==
General / club aviation. There is also a movie arecraft collection here and a number of annual events are held including a Pooley's Fly-In.

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:10:30Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Official Spotting Locations */

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:07:39Z

FreebyrdUK:

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:06:57Z

FreebyrdUK:

[[Category:United Kingdom]]
{{categorywithregion|||}}

{{infobox|fullname=|
location=|
iata=|
icao=|EGHA
aptype=|Public
website=|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:05:36Z

FreebyrdUK:

[[Category:United Kingdom]]
{{categorywithregion|||}}

{{infobox|fullname=|
location=|
iata=|
icao=|
aptype=|
website=|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

Compton Abbas Airfield

2007-04-02T17:04:21Z

FreebyrdUK: New page: {{subst:Newarticle}}

[[Category:]]
{{categorywithregion|||}}

{{infobox|fullname=|
location=|
iata=|
icao=|
aptype=|
website=|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==

EGHA

2007-04-02T17:03:37Z

FreebyrdUK: Redirecting to Compton Abbas (/EGHA)

#REDIRECT [[Compton Abbas (/EGHA)]]

Bournemouth International Airport

2007-04-02T16:49:17Z

FreebyrdUK: /* Official Spotting Locations */

[[Category:England]]
{{categorywithregion|Europe|United Kingdom|England}}

{{infobox|fullname=Bournemouth International Airport|
location=|
iata=|
icao=|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.flybournemouth.co.uk|
mapurl=|
mapsource=|
atctower=|
atcground=|
atcclearance=|
atcapproach=|
atcdeparture=|
atcatis=|
atcunicom=}}



==Official Spotting Locations==
The Bournemouth Aviation Museum [http://www.aviation-museum.co.uk/] is close to the end of runway 26 and , from its picnic area you can get a good view of the threshold. £5 to get in or £25 for the year. The museum itself is also excellent.
===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

==Facilities and Transportation==