Curacao Hato Airport: Difference between revisions

Like many other airports we also have locations near the runway for aircraft photography. There are two locations where runway shot can be taken. The most popular one is runway 11. The biggest disadvantage of runway 11 is that airport security will most likely send you away when they see you as it is near the airport premises. So if the airport security doesn't see you, you have a nice location here but when they do see you, you will be asked to leave. But once you have reached this location, the road is made of sand which is much better. Here you can stop on the side of the road for approaching aircraft. Another disadvantage is the road that takes you there. The road is unpaved and made of what used to be coral cliffs. Another disadvantage is the extreme heat at this location. As there is nothing else in the vicinity be sure to take sufficient water with you to cool off and some snacks or food if you want to stay there for more then 2 hours. As the location is fairly remote, I would recommend not to hang out there too long as it is also a location where usually nobody drives, so if something happens to your car, you are on your own. The other runway location is on the opposite side of the runway which is runway 29. Runway 29 is mainly used when the wind changes direction during the months September until November. Runway 29 is located at the terrain which is adjecent to the road going to the airport when coming from the east. It is located on the side of the place called Hato Caves which is a tourist attraction. This terrain is planned as office park but so far there still is a view on runway 29. The disadvantage of this location is that it is not used often for landings (only during the months September until November). But if used, this location can offer very nice photography opportunities.

The advantage of runway 11 is that you can take very nice photos from this location. It is recommended that you know when the aircraft come in when photographing from this location to avoid having to wait there for hours before the aircraft come in. Another advantage from this location is that you don't necessarily need a 200-300mm lense as aircraft pass by right in front of you or above you if you stand right underneath the flying path of the approaching aircraft. The disadvantage of runway 11 is heat haze. Be sure to snap your photos before the aircraft are almost touching down on the runway. Aircraft turning from in front of you to enter the active runway usually have no problem with heat haze.

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