Spotter-Friendly Airports with Official Viewing Platforms

If you’re an aviation enthusiast, you’ll know that not every airport welcomes plane spotters with open arms. But some airports around the world have gone the extra mile—building dedicated viewing platforms and spotting terraces that make it easier and safer to enjoy the hobby. These airports not only tolerate spotters; they actively embrace them.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the world’s most spotter-friendly airports that feature official viewing areas. Whether it’s an elevated terrace overlooking the runways or a purpose-built platform at the airport perimeter, these locations are a dream for spotters with cameras, binoculars, and notebooks in hand.

Brussels Airport, Belgium (BRU / EBBR)

Brussels Airport is a shining example of an airport that values its enthusiast community. In recent years, it has created two dedicated spotting platforms:

• Spotter Platform 01/19 offers views across the intersection of runways 01/19 and 07R/25L, and partial views of the terminal. It’s accessible from Nossegem village and is a great spot for arrivals on 01.
• Spotter Platform 25L/07R replaced a previously popular informal location and provides elevated views for photography, particularly of arrivals on runway 25L. There’s even free parking nearby.

Brussels also hosts enthusiast events and occasional airside visits—a rare and very welcome initiative.

Vienna Airport, Austria (VIE / LOWW)

Vienna International is not only one of Europe’s busiest airports but also one of the most accommodating to spotters. The airport has multiple official locations, including:

• The Terminal Terrace, which offers views over the apron and runway 16. It’s accessed through a security check for a small fee.
• Spotter Hill, an official raised platform located on the eastern side of the airport next to runway 16/34. It provides excellent, unobstructed views and is particularly good in the mornings.

There’s also a VISITAIR tour centre offering airside bus tours—making Vienna a must-visit for serious enthusiasts.

Tokyo Haneda (HND / RJTT)

Not one but THREE viewing areas grace this busy airport serving Japan’s capital city. The airport is a hub for All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines, and is served by many carriers from around the world, as well as Japanese domestic carriers.

Haneda has three terminals – two mostly served by domestic flights and Japanese carriers, and one for international flights and carriers. All three have viewing terraces on top, each offering slightly different views. Overall the International Terminal is best for longer spotting stays as you can generally see most movements from here.

Sydney Kingsford Smith, Australia (SYD / YSSY)

Photo (c) Simon_sees

Sydney’s famous sunshine and heavy international traffic make it a perfect destination for plane spotting—and the airport makes it even better with Shep’s Mound, an official viewing location.

Located near runway 16R/34L, this spot offers all-day opportunities for photography and logging movements. It features raised areas for shooting over the fence, good parking, and clear views of all three runways and some taxiways.

Additionally, Sydney’s beach spot near Botany Bay is an iconic location, though not officially designated by the airport—it remains a favourite for photographers.

Perth Airport, Australia (PER / YPPH)

Perth has developed one of the most structured official viewing areas in the region:

• The Public Viewing Area on Dunreath Drive is a purpose-built raised platform at the runway 03 threshold. It’s open daily and offers close-up views of take-offs and landings.

Inside Terminal 1, there’s also an official viewing deck with views of the main runway and apron—perfect if you want to escape the heat or rain while spotting.

Munich Airport, Germany (MUC / EDDM)

Munich has long welcomed spotters, and the Visitor Park is one of the best examples of this in Europe. It features:

• A raised observation mound with views of the runways and taxiways.
• Historic aircraft displays, including a preserved Super Constellation.
• An interactive visitor centre and play areas for families.

Inside the terminal, there are also limited views from some public areas.

Zurich Airport, Switzerland (ZRH / LSZH)

Zurich is another top-tier spotter-friendly airport. It has two official viewing decks:

• Observation Deck B, accessible landside for a small fee, has views of gates, taxiways, and runway 28.
• Observation Deck E, located at the midfield terminal, offers a more immersive airside experience (accessed via shuttle and security).

These decks are thoughtfully designed with benches, telescopes, snack areas, and photo-friendly glass. The airport also runs airside tours and enthusiast events.

Frankfurt Airport, Germany (FRA / EDDF)

Frankfurt offers the Visitors’ Terrace on Terminal 2, which overlooks part of the ramp and runway 07R/25L. While views are partially obstructed, it’s still a worthwhile visit. Additionally, there are multiple public roads and park areas outside the airport used by spotters, but the terrace remains the only official location.

Frankfurt also promotes aviation interest with displays and interactive exhibits inside the terminal.

✈️ Inspired? Plan Your Next Spotting Trip

All of these airports—and hundreds more—are featured in the newly updated
World Airport Spotting Guides (3rd Edition), covering over 350 airports in 80 countries with detailed information on:

• The best spotting locations
• Nearby spotting hotels
• Museums and preserved aircraft
• Tips for each airport

Order your copy today at www.destinworld.com and never miss a movement!