Aircraft spotting is a hobby that involves monitoring various types of aerial vehicles – aeroplanes most commonly, but also gliders, balloons, helicopters and airships. Participants perform this practice in many different ways – from observing to recording registration numbers and other information about the aircrafts they see – but suffice to say, aircraft spotters usually have a love of aircraft in common.
There are many places in Brisbane to see different types of aircrafts. Aeroplane spotters can choose from a variety of vantage spots.
The
Brisbane Airport is an obvious beginning. The airport has international and domestic terminals that house a variety of different models and airlines. This venue is also a lot more comfortable than others – spotters can enjoy indoors, air conditioned comfort with easy access to facilities like toilets and eateries.
The fire station on
Baeckea Street (near the Brisbane Airport) is an ideal spot for photographers. The area provides clear vision of the planes arriving on Runway 1 and the Brisbane skyline in the background presents the perfect backdrop. This is a very popular location so it's best to get there early to grab a good spot.
The
Kingsford Smith Memorial also provides front row seats to departing planes on Runway 19 – appropriate, considering Sir Charles Kingsford Smith was one of Australia's most well known aviators.
With airport security becoming tighter and tighter, it is important that aircraft spotters steer clear of any unauthorised access points. The preceding spots are all legal viewing areas that supply maximum access.
