Malta International Airport: Difference between revisions

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{{jplink|5742719}} (Tu-154 touching down - 210mm)
{{jplink|5742719}} (Tu-154 touching down - 210mm)


===The "Spotters' Wall" (Safi side)===
===The Spotters' Wall (Safi side)===


The Spotters' Wall, as it is known, is really an elevated viewing platform. Built by the Malta Aviation Society some years ago, it offers unobstructed views of Runway 14/32 and it is the place from which to shoot takeoffs in either direction. With any luck the aircraft will rotate right in front of you. It is easily the best spot for photography at MLA. Its only drawbacks are its unsuitability for morning photography, and its very popularity: it can get crowded if there is a particularly unusual movement.
The Spotters' Wall, as it is known, is really an elevated viewing platform. Built by the Malta Aviation Society some years ago, it offers unobstructed views of Runway 14/32 and it is the place from which to shoot takeoffs in either direction. With any luck the aircraft will rotate right in front of you. It is easily the best spot for photography at MLA. Its only drawbacks are its unsuitability for morning photography and its very popularity: it can get crowded if there is a particularly unusual movement.


'''Time of day:''' Noon to evening.
'''Time of day:''' Noon to evening.


'''Directions:''' Starting from the terminal, go left as you leave the building and head for the airport McDonald’s restaurant. Pass it by and you will reach the road to Zurrieq. Turn left and follow the road through the tunnel which goes beneath Runway 14-32. Once out of the tunnel you will reach a roundabout: go left again and carry on till you reach the viewing platform. The walk should take between 20 to 30 minutes.
'''Directions:''' Starting from the terminal, go left as you leave the building and head for the airport McDonald’s restaurant. Pass it by and you will reach the road to Zurrieq. Turn left and follow the road through a tunnel which goes beneath Runway 14-32. Once out of the tunnel you will reach a roundabout: go left again and carry on till you reach the viewing platform. The walk should take 20 to 30 minutes.


If arriving by bus, there is a bus stop shortly before the tunnel which is served by all the buses mentioned below under facilities and transportation, except the airport bus proper. From there, follow the above directions.  
If arriving by bus, there is a bus stop on the road just past the McDonald's restaurant which is served by all the buses mentioned below under facilities and transportation, except the airport bus proper. Get off here then follow the above directions.  


If driving, head for the airport but take the road to Zurrieq at the Gudja/airport/Luqa roundabout (works under way here as of August 2006 may create temporary obstacles). Parking is available next to the viewing platform and across the road.
If driving, head for the airport but take the road to Zurrieq at the Gudja/airport/Luqa roundabout ('''update:''' works under way here as of August 2006 may create temporary obstacles). Parking is available next to the viewing platform and across the road.
{{jplink|118458}} (the Spotters' Wall)
{{jplink|118458}} (the Spotters' Wall)
{{jplink|5665688}} (A300 Runway 14 - 125mm)
{{jplink|5665688}} (A300 Runway 14 - 125mm)
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