Planespotting / Viewing Guides for Frankfurt, Cologne-Bonn, Hamburg, Munich, Dusseldorf airports, and other airports and airfields in Germany

Planespotting Guides for Germany's Airports and Airfields

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Spotting locations and the best spotting hotel rooms for planespotters travelling to airports and airfields in Germany. Use the hotlinks above or scroll down for spotting information on spotting locations, airfield hangar access, aviation museums, preserved aircraft. Plus all the information has been plotted as Points of Interest and can be downloaded to your SatNavs, Google Earth and Google Maps to make planning your spotting trips abroad so much easier and helping you log many more
Most airfields and the smaller airports are very friendly and welcoming to aircraft spotters. It's often been noted that contacting the airfield before your visit to arrange a tour results in a far more complete log. Please note the authorities are not keen on the use of radios so please keep these in your bags and use headphones if necessary

Planespotting at Germany's Airports & Airfields has been plotted on Google Maps, Google Earth, and can be added to your SatNav - click to download
All 97 German locations - where they are, viewing spots, hotels and preserved aircraft can be seen on detailed satellite images, making planning your spotting trip exceptionally easy. All these spotting points of interest can be uploaded to your SatNav to give you another excellent resource to make your trip that much easier and more enjoyable. Please read the Download Instructions for example screenshots and further details

PRESERVED, WRECKS & RELICS, STORED AIRCRAFT IN GERMANY - their locations are marked in the Spotting in Germany download

20+31 MiG23 is preserved outside alongside the Blatzheimer Strasse in Zulpich

D-ABAH DC6 is preserved at the Gesundheitszentrum sports centre in Bad Laer and can be seen clearly from the road

D-ANAB Viscount is preserved as Greek restaurant Silbervogel in Ricklingen

D-ORKA Gas Balloon is used a tourist attraction near the centre of Berlin

DDR-SEG IL62 is on display in Stolln village

TG503 Hasting is preserved outside the Alliiertenmuseum in Berlin
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AALEN-ELCHINGEN AIRFIELD (EDPA/ZNI) - A/G 121.4

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access. They should open any locked hangars for you too, though if not some have large windows or gaps to read them off.
Aalen-Elchingen Airfield

ALTENBURG AIRPORT (EDAC/AOC) - TWR 123.575 & ALTENBURG MUSEUM

Spotting Info
The aeroclub is friendly, ask for access and you should be escorted round the hangar. The hangar next door has large windows in to log those inside. The Altenburg Museum has 5 preserved aircraft - 22+27 MiG 21, 61+12 Atlantic, D-2428 Brasov glider, D-EOON Zlin Z37 and unmarked Mil 2 D-HZPM. Also 60 blue MiG21 is stored in it's own shelter at the southern end of the airport. All 6 are plotted in the Spotting in Germany download.
Altenburg Airport

ANSBACH-PETERSDORF AIRFIELD (EDQF) - A/G 123.65

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and they should open the hangar up for you.
Ansbach Petersdorf Airfield

AUGSBURG AIRPORT (EDMA/AGB) - TWR 124.975

Spotting Info
The viewing terrace and cafe on top of the terminal has views across the airport and is free to use. At the eastern end is the Beechcraft area. You'll probably be denied access to their hangars. West of the terminal on the south side is the friendly gliding club with a miniature golf course just beyond it. Opposite the mini golf on the main airport side are the GA hangars and ramps.
Augsburg Airport Augsburg Gliding Club

BAD OEYNHAUSEN MUSEUM

Spotting Info
The Motor Technica Museum has been closed to the public for years but a lot of the exhibits are stored outside and in very poor condition. There are aircraft in front of the museum, but there are more across the road, just beyond the overgrown car park.

BAD SOODEN-ALLENDORF MUSEUM

Spotting Info
The Bad Sooden-Allendorf Grenzmuseum is located on the old East/West Germany border and contain 5 helicopters - 01 Yellow Mi-24, 93+84 Mi-8, D-HAQI UH-1, D-HBJA Alouette, D-HZPV Mi-2. Their locations are plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.

BAD WINDSHEIM AIRFIELD (EDQB) - A/G 118.275

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and they should open up the hangar for you.
Bad Windsheim Gliding Club

BERLIN-DEUTSCHES TECHNIKMUSEUM

Spotting Info
Entry is 4.50 Euros and the Berlin-Deutches Technikmuseum is open during the week from 0900-1730, weekends and public holidays from 1000-1800 and is closed on Mondays. Preserved on the roof is N951CA C-47.

BERLIN-GATOW LUFTWAFFENMUSEUM

Spotting Info
Free to enter, the fantastic Berlin-Gatow Lufwaffenmuseum has plenty of indoor and outdoor exhibits. During the summer it's open from 1000-1800, winter times are 0900-1600. If you're using public transport, take the S-Bahn to Spandau or the U-Bahn to Rathaus Spandau. From here take the 135 bus and get off at a stop called "Seekorso" - it's about a 20 minute ride and the buses run about every 20 minutes. After you get off the bus, cross the road and walk down through the housing estate until you come to the museum. If you're visiting other airports, either the CityTourCard or the Berlin Visitor Card cover all buses/S-Bahn/U-Bahn/local trains to make travelling much easier. They are available from ticket machines.

BERLIN-SCHONEFELD AIRPORT (EDDB/SXF) - TWR 120.025 & 118.85, GND 121.6 & 121.8

Spotting Info
The viewing terrace is on the top of Terminal A. Entry costs 2 Euros and is open from 1000-1800, although if the weather is bad they close it. You and your bags are security searched before entry as well. Good views from here including the stored aircraft at Lufthansa Technik.

Planespotting Hotels - its location is marked in the Spotting in Germany download
The Holiday Inn is 5 minutes from the terminal and has a garden area on top of the hotel. From here you can see part of the ramp area and if the aircraft are side on you should be able to read them.
The Holiday Inn features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

Planeboys, Berlin-Schonefeld Airport

BERLIN-TEGEL AIRPORT (EDDT/TXL) - TWR 124.525 & 118.85, GND 121.925 & 121.75

Spotting Info
The viewing terrace is only open from 10am-6pm, entry is 2 Euros and there are no toilets. Security checks and bags are searched every time you enter. If it's shut you can log from the Cockpit cafe, which has an outside eating area and gives good views of the runway or the glazed stairwells to the left and right of the area leading to the main section of gates. There are windows that can be seen from the main concourse and signs for restaurant and club lounges. The day stopping biz tend to park down by the hangars to the west of the terminal, with the biz staying longer usually parking at the end of the military ramp over the far side.

Planespotting Hotels - its location is plotted in the Spotting in Germany download
The Mercure Hotel has rooms overlooking the runway and terminal.
The Mercure Hotel features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

Planeboys, Berlin-Tegel Airport

BERLIN-TEMPLEHOF AIRPORT (CLOSED)

Spotting Info
Airport officially closed on 31 October 2008. 3 aircraft are supposedly still stored/preserved here but their locations are unconfirmed at present.

BONN-HANGELAR AIRFIELD (EDKB/BNJ) - A/G 135.15

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask at the control tower and at the security gate for access. Hi-viz jackets are required to be worn and you should be allowed to enter any open hangar as well.
Bonn-Hangelar Airfield

BORKHEIDE-HANS GRADE MUSEUM

Spotting Info
All 3 exhibits at the Hans Grade Museum can be easily seen from outside and are plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download. The museum's strip is only used for their Flugplatz days.

BRANDENBURG-MUHLENFELD AIRFIELD (EDBE) - A/G 118.625

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access to the hangars.

BREMEN AIRPORT (EDDW/BRE) - TWR 118.5, APP 125.65, GND 121.75

Spotting Info
On top of the terminal is a viewing terrace and entry is free. Good views of the stands, apron and runway with any GA parked outside to the right. Preserved on the terrace is D-ASAX VFW614 marked "D-BABK". In the terminal building, 3 aircraft are on display - D-1167 Junkers W.33, D-437 FW A.16 model and D-EHOO FW44. At the Airbus EADS offices, D-9565 VAK-191 is displayed outside - it's easily walkable from the terminal. Atlas Air Service handle Citation maintenance and their hangar has large windows all round the hangar making logging the inmates very easy.
Bremen Airport

BUCKEBURG MUSEUM

Spotting Info
The Hubschrauber Museum is open 7 days a week, 0900-1800 in summer, 1000-1700 in winter, entry is 6 Euros. D-HDFG Bo105 is displayed outside.

CHAM-JANAHOF AIRFIELD

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and they should open up the hangar for you.

COLOGNE-BONN AIRPORT (EDDK/CGN) - TWR 124.975, APA 121.05, GND 121.725

Spotting Info
Terminal 1 - Two viewing areas, Area B and Area C, one at each end of the terminal. Area B is accessed from within the terminal and is sign posted. It has seating and very limited cover if raining. There are also food and drink vending machines. Any aircraft arriving or leaving Terminal 2 will pass this point and views are also possible of part of the cargo areas and the threshold of runway 14L. Area C, at the other end of the terminal, can be accessed from either inside or outside the terminal via the stairs near exit C and departure gates C1-6, or via the first viewing area, and offers the best views by far. Again there is seating and limited cover if raining but no vending machines. Views are possible of the military area, WDL hangar, commuter ramps, aircraft leaving or arriving at GA but you cannot see the ramp-part of cargo. All 3 runways can be seen but views of the far runway 06/24 are very limited. There is also a light aircraft parking area in front behind some bushes. Both viewing areas are open from 7:30am-10pm daily but closed during bad weather, surrounded by glass panels and smoking is permitted. No toilets however these are available in the terminal, just a 2 minute walk away and entrance is free so you can come and go as you please. If you want to watch the cargo flights arriving after the viewing areas have closed then you can just sit on the steps near the gate to the southerly viewing area B spot, which also overlooks the commuter ramps. There are very few cargo aircraft parked during the day. Weekdays are generally better for passenger flights - a morning and evening rush accompanied by a very slow few hours in between, with Saturday being extremely quiet. Friday night is when all the freighters arrive - a few trickle in early evening, but it's steady from around 2030-0100. At weekends there can be up to 50 freighters, but from the terraces you'll only be able to log half. Most, but not all, will stay over the weekend. A car will definitely be needed to get the rest - you can drive the perimeter for various tracks to follow for different views. With a car, heading south on the L84 on the east side of the airport you will travel round the threshold of 24. Straight ahead, as the road bends round to the left, there is room for you to park. Head straight ahead and follow the airport perimeter fence for views of the main storage area and cargo.
A cafe also gives views of arrivals. There is also a Burger King in T1 on the top floor, which is very popular. The commuter ramp Area A is also visible from the windows within Terminal 1, just keep heading right as you enter T1. Aircraft on T1 and T2 can be read in the dark with patience due to the lighting and the MD11s on cargo are also fairly easy to read at night. Terminal 2 has very limited views unless you're airside. The far left side of departures will give views of some of the remote stands - these can also be easily seen by leaving the terminal at the top level and turning right, following the road before it goes down a ramp.

Planespotting Hotels - its location is marked in the Spotting in Germany download
The Leonardo Hotel is just a few minutes drive from the Terminal. You have to ring the hotel from the phones to request the shuttle bus. Or you can walk to and from Terminal 1 following the footpath/cycle route. From the 1A end of the Airport, you simply exit left at ground level and follow the walking/cycle route, bearing left under the approach road, and come out just before germanwings' HQ. At the next junction, past the 161 bus stop, turn right and the Holiday Inn is 100 metres on the left. No more than a 10 minute walk. Room 619 has an excellent view straight down 14R and that side of the main cargo terminal. Anything using 24/06 can be seen and with warning from a radio and/or SBS you have a short time to view arrivals on 14L or departures on 32R. Because the runways cross, the tower only use one frequency so with just a radio you will not miss any movements. Room 621 next door is at the end of the corridor and will have similar views. All the odd numbers are ok but as the number lowers, the view becomes more distant and therefore not as good.
The Leonardo Hotel features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

Aviation Friends Website for details of the stored aircraft, and Cologne-Bonn Airport

DACHAU AIRFIELD (EDMD) - A/G 118.425

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and you should be allowed round the hangars.
Dachau Airfield

DATTENBERG HELIPORT

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access, photos usually ok too. If it's locked up you can log some through the windows but it's best to visit during office hours if you want to log them all.

DEGGENDORF AIRFIELD (EDMW) - A/G 122.025

Spotting Info
Very friendly, ask for access and they should open the hangars up for you. D-EKXE Bonanza is preserved on a pole at the entrance.
Deggendorf Airfield

DONAUWORTH-GENDERKINGEN AIRFIELD (EDMQ) - A/G 124.325

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access to hangars.
Donauworth-Genderkingen Airfield

DUSSELDORF AIRPORT (EDDL/DUS) - TWR 118.3, APP 128.65, GND 121.9

Pier B Observation Deck
Two excellent viewing areas at this airport. On clearing customs, follow the exit signs and you will automatically come into the main concourse. To the right of the info desk are some stairs and lifts that go up to the third floor for the observation roof. Entry is 2 Euros and there are toilets and a snack bar. This is the only place you can see the biz so go here first. If they're using 05L/R, stay here for the day though wrap up warm, there's no shelter.

Flugbahnhof Zuschauerterrassen (Railway Station Viewing Terrace)
If they're using 23L/R, head for the railway station. At the far end of the runways, way past the LTU hangars, is the railway station observation area. This is highly recommended. To get there from the Pier B terrace, retrace your steps back to the main concourse. You will see signs to the railway station, monorail, SkyTrain. Take this free monorail to the Rail Station (Flugbahnhof), it will take about 5 minutes. Follow signs upwards for the viewing terrace (Zuschauerterrassen) and if you paid the 2 Euros at the other viewing terrace, it's free. Just show your entry ticket at the desk and go upstairs. It has both outside and inside viewing areas, toilets and food nearby, opening hours are 6am-9pm (summer) and 9am-8pm (winter), you can come and go as you please, just show your ticket for re-entry. The windows indoors are also dirty and dusty so take something to clean it to make sure you can see the arrivals. If it's snowing, this terrace could well be closed for safety reasons - a good alternative is the monorail station. Good views from there with no problems from security.

Other Spotting Info
Saturday is quieter than during the week. If you're flying with British Airways you can spot from the end of pier B, past the second security check - don't wait to be called to the gate. From the end, you can see both departures and arrivals, with the only down side being no access to the cafes.

Planespotting Hotels - their locations are marked in the Spotting in Germany download

At the Holiday Inn, west facing rooms will give you views of movements on 23 but SBS is needed.
The Holiday Inn features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

The Sheraton is within the terminal complex and just a 5 minute walk to the viewing terrace. Ask for a room overlooking the airport and you won't miss much.
The Sheraton features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

Transfer to/from Weeze
Transfer to Weeze takes around an hour and a half via bus and train - more information can be found at Bahn.de.

Dusseldorf Airport and Dusseldorf Aviation News Forum - to help with movement requests

EBERSWALDE-FINOW AIRPORT (EDAV) - A/G 119.05

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access. Also request permission to cross the runway as there are former military bunkers housing aircraft on the southside. The museum is in the northwest corner of the airfield.
Eberswalde-Finow Airport

EGELSBACH AIRPORT (EDFE/QEF) - A/G 119.15

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access, which is granted provided you wear a hi-viz vest. Ask at reception in the terminal under the tower - to the left of the doors that lead airside. Everywhere is accessible though some hangars will be shut and have no gaps - if you're lucky pilots may open them to access their aircraft so keep an eye out. The exceptions are the very end Diamond Aircraft hangars and the helicopter area. If the Diamond hangar is open you can log from outside. Ask at each hangar, though some may deny access. If you take the S-Bahn from Frankfurt to Egelsbach station, you can see the airfield and it's within walking distance 15-20 mins. On exiting the station, turn left at the bottom of the steps then left once out of the subway. This is the Hans-Fleissner-Strasse. Follow it until you come to a crossroads. Go straight across and the airfield will come into view. Outside Heli Transair on the approach road is D-HUBS R22 pole mounted marked as "D-HUPS".
Egelsbach Airport

EGGERSDORF AIRFIELD (EDCE) - A/G 132.65

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and you should be allowed round the hangars. Over the far side you'll see a few more hangars - drive over there and you'll find 8 summer houses with a hangar attached to the rear of each. These owners are also friendly to talk to, but these 8 hangars are only used at weekends.
Eggersdorf Airfield

ERFURT AIRPORT (EDDE/ERF) - TWR 121.15, APP 124.175, GND 121.75

Spotting Info
DDR-STG IL18 is preserved here, its location is plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.
Erfurt Airport

ESSEN-MULHEIM AIRFIELD (EDLE/ESS) - A/G 129.875

Spotting Info
From the road that runs alongside the flying club, you can read off most of what's parked outside. You can try asking for access, but I don't yet know if they allow it or not. Southside is the gliding club, again I don't yet know if they will allow access.
Essen-Mulheim Airfield, Mulheim Gliding Club

FLENSBURG AIRFIELD (EDXF/FLF) - A/G 122.85

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and you should be allowed round the hangars. 21+25 F-104 is pole mounted at Nord Schrott Scrap Dealers - it's rough location along the Lilienthalstrasse is plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.
Flensburg Airfield, Flensburg Flying Club, Flensburg

FRANKFURT-HAHN AIRPORT (EDFH/HHN) - TWR 119.65, APP 125.6, GND 121.975

Spotting Info
There is a small outside terrace and smoking area next to the bar on the first floor, follow the signs. Glass windows but no roof and no problems spotting from here. Cargo is at the other end to the terrace so you will probably only be able to read off the first one or two as these block the rest. You can get the bus to Frankfurt-Main for 12 Euros, journey time is a little over an hour.
Frankfurt-Hahn Airport Website, Frankfurt-Hahn Airport Spotters Forum, Hahn Infos Spotters Forum

FRANKFURT-MAIN AIRPORT (EDDF/FRA) - TWR 119.9 & 124.85, APP 120.8 & 125.35, GND 121.8

Terminal 2 Viewing Terrace
The spectator terrace at Terminal 2 is open and entry costs 5 Euros for adults, but keep your ticket as it's valid for re-entry all day, you can come and go as often as you like. The entrance is located at the far left (the Pier E end) on the upper floor of the terminal. At the top of the stairs, just to the left, is an information screen (marked 'i'). If you press the start button, (it's a touch sensitive screen) then choose your language, you get into the menu screen. Toward the bottom of the screen, you will see two buttons marked 'OPS inbound' and 'OPS outbound'. Pressing either of these will take you into the pages displaying the flights and the aircraft registrations. Opening hours are 10.00-17.00 daily, and all visitors must undergo a security check as stringent as the one for passengers - you will be searched and your bags go through the x-ray machine. Because of this, there are often long queues waiting to get out onto the terrace. No problems taking laptops and SBS onto the terrace, but be discrete. Liquids, including drinks, sun cream, shower gel etc, are not allowed so make sure you deposit them in luggage storage in Terminal 2. However as you pass through security there is a machine where drinks can be purchased and taken onto the terrace. If you leave the terrace and come back again, you WILL be searched again so if you're travelling with friends, leave your belongings with them to make it a bit easier on yourself. There are no refreshments and no toilets on the deck and no shelter from the weather. You can come and go as often as you like by showing your ticket, but you will be subject to a full search each time you enter. The terrace has a maximum capacity of 3000 visitors at any time, when this number is reached, access will be closed temporarily. Terminal 2 is located at the eastern end of the airfield and the view from the deck is of the terminal stands, the thresholds of 25L and 25R, a handful of aircraft parked on Terminal 1 and anything that is parked at what used to be USAF Rhein Main. If 25L/R are being used by landing traffic, then all arriving aircraft will pass by directly in front of you. However a sizeable percentage of the departing traffic will use runway 18 at the opposite end of the airfield (regardless of wind direction). This unfortunately means that a number of aircraft that had been parked on Terminal 1 or in cargo will be missed as you watch them climb away in the distance - take a radio (but use earphones, keep it hidden and be discrete) and note times and callsigns, you can try and tie them up on the information screens mentioned above, or from SBS, ACARS etc later. If 07s are in use, the arrivals turning off the runway are quite far away and any heading for Terminal 1 will probably be missed. If you arrive at Terminal 1, follow the signs for the Skyline monorail. Once at Terminal 2, go down the stairs, turn right at the bottom and up the escalators straight in front of you. There are signs for the visitors terrace, follow the directions above. If you want to keep spotting after it closes at 17:00, head to McDonald's.

Airport Tours
A guided tour of the apron runs daily on the hour between 13.00 and 16.00, though the ticket booth only opens at 12:30. In holiday periods two additional tours are run daily at 11.00 and 12.00. Price is 6 Euros for an adult. Tickets for this tour are bought by the bridge from Terminal 1 to the Frankfurt Airport Center or the Terminal 2 entrance point to left of MacDonalds. These leave from the rear (west end) of terminal 1 on the bridge to the airport conference centre. It takes you on a full ramp tour excluding the Lufthansa maintenance area for 1 hour and means you can get the aircraft parked at pier A that can't be seen from the terrace. You can also get good views and photos of aircraft taxiing and parked up from the bus.

Other Terminal Viewing Spots

If it's raining or the terrace is closed, your best bet is the McDonald's eating area at the opposite end of level 4 to the terrace entrance. Whilst it is warmer and drier and the views are similar, the glass is quite distorted making logging a bit more difficult and photography impossible. Once the light starts to fade, you get reflections off the terminal lights making logging extremely difficult but if you can identify the type and operator you can then tie up the arrival or departure time with a registration on the screens. Spotting is tolerated here, just make the odd purchase.

If you're flying from Terminal 1, on leaving Terminal 2 via the monorail, stay on it when it reaches T1. The announcements and the display boards inform you that only passengers are permitted to travel to the Terminal 1 A gates, but about 60 seconds after arriving at the A gates it travels back to Terminal 1 for you to get off. The advantage of travelling this extra stop and back is that you get to see a lot of what's parked on the A gates, and in the B10-B20 cul-de-sac. These are parked at close range and, whilst some can be read off easily with the naked eye, being quick with the bins will catch most of the rest.

Make a note of what runway is in use when you are due to depart to make sure you get on the correct side of the plane. On taxiing out and take off you will be able to pick off a few more that maybe you couldn't get from the terrace. If you're flying out of Terminal 1 Pier A the far end gate, as well as having great views of 25L/R, has views of all aircraft making their way to 18 and the threshold of 18 is visible so you can watch for the previously hidden cargo aircraft that will taxi and depart from 18.

West Side Viewing park
There is a viewing area on the west side, which is about 3 miles from the terminal and is adjacent to the departure runway 18. Turn left out of the terminal, go past all the blast walls and cargo area, under the approach lights, and as the road dips down towards the tunnel under the departure runway, you will see a set of steps on the right. Go up these, along a path for about 200 yards and you will see the concrete elevated platform. There are no facilities and no shade. If you have a car, there's a small car park here too. Round the corner and up the road back towards the terminal is a lay-by on either side of the road - this is also a good spot to stay and log and photograph aircraft though any landing on 07R are almost directly overhead.

East Side Bridge
On the east side there is a bridge - the elevated position providing great views and photo opportunities. It's a 15-20 minute walk - turn right out of the terminal and there is a footpath that leads past the catering buildings and around the end of runways 25L/R, next to the Autobahn. No facilities here either. It's also walkable from the Intercity Hotel below. If you have a car you can park close by, marked in the Spotting in Germany Download, as is the walk from your car to the bridge, though don't leave anything on show as it could get broken into. Or you can park at the InterCity Hotel for 14 Euros a day. Just a little further south from the bridge is the Berlin Airlift Memorial, with preserved C-47 N1350M and C-54 N88887 - their locations are also plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.

Planespotting Hotels - their locations are marked in the Spotting in Germany download

The InterCity Hotel offers good views of the terminal and parallel runways, specifically room 3056 (would imagine 3046/3052/3054/3058 offer similar) and rooms around 3066, 3068 and 3070, though the arrivals on 25s are just a bit too far away to be read off - an SBS would complement the room perfectly. 3070 offers excellent views of those landing and taxiing out, and across the cargo and terminals. 3014 faces northeast overlooking the hotel car park, and therefore has a good view of the 25 approach and a small part of Terminal 2 - 3030 has similar views with more of Terminal 2 visible as long as the trees aren't in full bloom. 3022 overlooks the final approach for 25 but you can't read anything off and there are no views of the airport or departures. Windows along the corridor have views of the old cargo area and Terminal 1, albeit obscured by trees. Ask for an airport view, preferably on the 3rd (top) floor. The same rooms but on the second floor are still good though trees could block the view. If you're not happy with the room, a polite request at reception will get a better room if available, they know exactly what you're after. There is a shuttle bus that is free from the airport, but the return trip costs 5 Euros each unless you're flying with Lufthansa (or you tell reception you're flying with Lufthansa and show them some sort of ticket...), in which case reception should give you the necessary tokens to give to the bus driver when you check out. Alternatively you can catch the local bus that stops right outside the hotel at 5 minutes past the hour, every hour, costs 2.20 Euros and goes straight to Terminal 2. It's notably more punctual than the hotel shuttle bus. The TV screen in the foyer displays registrations of the arrivals and departures. You can take the 10 min walk to the bridge and for some good views and can stay there until dark with no hassle - follow the path keeping the airfield on your left and you go pass the Berlin Airlift Memorial mentioned above. Walk along the pathway until you get to a bit of a hill with a bridge behind you, and you can see the whole airfield from here. Food and drink here (breakfast, dinner, alcohol) are very expensive, you can stock up at the shops in the terminals. It's 14 Euros per day to park here.
The InterCity Hotel features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

The Ibis Budget in Offenbach is cheaper than the InterCity above but is 7 miles from the airport, albeit on the flightpath for 25L/R. A breakfast buffet, free parking and free Wi-Fi, with a McDonald's and a petrol station nearby for meals and supplies.
The Ibis Budget in Offenbach features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

The Ibis in Kelsterbach is also cheaper than the InterCity but doesn't have any airport views at all. However it does have a reliable courtesy shuttle bus.
The Ibis in Kelsterbach features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

Transfer to Frankfurt-Hahn
The bus runs every hour from Terminal 1, bus stop 22 in Hall B area. It costs 12 Euros one way and takes about an hour and 30 minutes.

RMAS Website - lists the visiting biz and the more interesting and infrequent visitors but only after the month has passed, Frankfurt Airport Tours and Terrace Information, FraSpotting

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AIRPORT (EDNY/FDH) - TWR 120.075

Spotting Info
Home of the huge annual AeroExpo. Just up the road is preserved Do27 D-EIRO marked as "D-ELUT" - its location is plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.
Friedrichshafen Airport, Friedrichshafen Flying Club

GEILENKIRCHEN AIR BASE

Spotting Info
To the west of Geilenkirchen town, you'll need to get here early in order to avoid the traffic and the heat haze - viewing is from a distance so avoiding the heat haze is a must.

East Ramp
Head southwest out of Geilenkirchen on the L42 towards Teveren, and just before you reach Teveren, turn right at the roundabout onto K3 signed to Nierstrasse. Follow this road for about half a mile and some B707s appear on your left in the distance. There are places to pull over and trees to lean your binoculars on. However, you can get closer - back to the roundabout and turn right to get back onto the L42. Head straight over the next roundabout and this takes you towards the main base gate. Turn right at the first crossroads onto Teverener Heide. Up here on the left is FC Teveren's football ground - turn left straight after it. Park up, follow the track between the trees and the perimeter fence will come into view. Keep walking for better angles of the aircraft. Those parked on the far, western apron may be too far away, in which case you'll need to head right round the base to the western perimeter.

West Ramp
On the western side of the base is the L272 that leads away from Niederbusch village. You'll need to park up just off the L272, preferably just north of the runway, and make your way through the trees to get the best views and angles on the aircraft on the larger west apron.

GERA AIRFIELD (EDAJ) - A/G 122.425

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask in the tower for access to the hangars, you should be escorted round. Zlin maintenance are also friendly, again ask for access. The parachute club have a hangar housing their Caravan, ask for access, they are friendly too.
Gera Airfield, Gera Flying Club

GRIESHEIM AIRFIELD

Spotting Info
In the southeast of Griesheim town. A small, friendly gliding club is based here, ask for access.

HAMBURG-FINKENWERDER AIRPORT (EDHI/XFW) - TWR 123.25, APP 124.225, GND 121.65

Spotting Info
157 Nord N.2501 marked "D-NORA" is displayed outside the Airbus factory. F-GDSG Super Guppy is parked out on the western apron. Visit Globetrotter Tours to book the factory tour.

HAMBURG-FUHLSBUTTEL AIRPORT (EDDH/HAM) - TWR 126.85 & 121.275, APP 118.2 & 124.625, GND 121.8

Terminal Terraces
The two terraces, one in each terminal, are now incorporated with the restaurants, and are signposted from within the respective terminals. No problems viewing from them and they're open til very late. In Terminal 2 head up the escalators to the food court. The entrance to the viewing area is on the left and is free. Great for logging, but it's behind glass so not great for photos, especially if it's smeared. It's also popular with families, the Terminal 1 terrace less so. The terrace at Terminal 1 is free and again behind glass and you can't walk out to the end of the pier. The airport tours also start here.

Other Spotting Areas
The P2 circular car park is ok to spot from for logging, but not particularly good for photographs. For photos and watching the movements, the fantastic Himmelsschreiber Cafe southside has great views and a great atmosphere. Air Hamburg run the cafe and are very friendly. They even have a set of step ladders available for photos. You have to pay to park here or use the gated area on the other side of the small road. Take the ticket into the cafe when you shop there and have them stamp it - the first hour is now free with 0.50 EUR per hour after that. If they don't process your ticket it's 2.00 EUR perhour, every hour. Northside, near the 23 threshold and fire station is the preserved B707 D-ABOD marked as "D-AFHG". On the other side of the fire station is the popular cafe Coffee To Fly situated alongside 15/33. Great for watching all movements and photos, especially on 15/33. The 707 and cafe are plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download. The Lufthansa Technik hangars are in the southwest part of the airport. You can park near a crash gate to log what's outside the hangars or you can drive through the nearby housing estate to the perimeter fence for far better views of the apron and into the hangars if they are open.
Hamburg-Fuhlsbuttel Airport

HANNOVER-LANGENHAGEN AIRPORT (EDDV/HAJ) - TWR 120.175 & 120.9, APP 119.6, GND 121.95

Spotting Info
Airport has two parallel runways, with the northern runway being much longer. The airport is split into three terminals, although they are all linked: A is the northern one and is used by Lufthansa and other flag carriers, while the southern most is C and is used by TUI, Air Berlin and Condor. The rest use the middle terminal B. If you're only interested in spotting the terrace is best as flights, especially Air Berlin etc, do arrive and depart from the Southern runway, which is difficult (but not impossible) to see from the North multi storey. No problems with security. Without a car there are two main spotting points - the Observation deck on the terminal and the 'North' multi-story car park. The observation deck can be reached by lifts and stairs between Terminals A and B, is open 09.00 to 18.45 in the summer and entry is 2.50 Euros. Open air and behind plexi glass. It faces the south runway and although not all stands are visible, you should see everything that moves. There's a remote apron directly opposite the terrace and Terminal B. Sun and glass mean it's not great for photos. To get to the north car park, leave Terminal A (northern end) and follow the signs for GAT. Turn right when you reach the GAT terminal and the car park is about 200 yards in front of you - 5-10 minutes walk from the terminal. The car park overlooks the holding point of the north runway 27R and is fantastic for photos. Only facilities are toilets by the lifts at the bottom.

Planespotting Hotels - its location is marked in the Spotting in Germany download
The Maritim Hotel is across the road from the terminal and even numbered rooms in the 'north wing' should have views of the North runway.
The Maritim Hotel features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

Hannover-Langenhagen Airport Website

HERMESKEIL MUSEUM

Spotting Info
The Hermeskeil Museum has exhibits inside and outside though some are in a poor state. At the bottom of the field, behind the F84, is the dismantled Jet Provost lying in the hedge with another jet behind it - make sure you don't miss these. Entry is 7 Euros.

HILDESHEIM AIRFIELD (EDVM/ZNO) - A/G 119.825

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and you should be allowed round the hangars. If available, someone should escort you to the autogyro hangars where they ready the autogyros for delivery.
Hildesheim Airfield, Hildesheim Flying Club

HOCKENHEIM AIRFIELD (EDFX) - A/G 123.65

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access. You have to cross the runway to get to the hangar so make sure you speak to someone in the clubhouse and get permission to cross first. Keep a good lookout in both directions as you walk across the runway if they allow you.
Hockenheim Flying Club

JESENWANG AIRFIELD (EDMJ) - A/G 122.425

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access.
Jesenwang Airfield

KEMPTEN AIRFIELD (EDMK) - A/G 122.0

Spotting Info
Very friendly, ask for access and you should be allowed round all hangars.

KONIGSDORF AIRFIELD - A/G 118.275

Spotting Info
Very friendly, ask for access.

LAATZEN AIRCRAFT MUSEUM

Spotting Info
The Laatzen Aircraft Museum is open 1000-1700 Tuesday-Sunday, closed on Mondays and costs 8 Euros. 688 MiG21 is pole mounted just up the road from the museum, pointing the way. Preserved outside is 58+68 Do28 with TC-FNS Hansa Jet displayed on top of the museum. Their locations are plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.

LANDSHUT AIRFIELD (EDML/QLG) - A/G 129.8

Spotting Info
Very friendly, ask for access at the main airfield area. If the hangars are shut, some of them have windows in to read off a few. There are also hangars in the southeastern corner of the airfield with a different entrance.
Landshut Airfield

LEUZENDORF AIRFIELD

Spotting Info
All residents live in their trailers so you'll only log what's out and if someone's around. Friendly, ask for access. The runway appears to cross two roads.

LEVERKUSEN AIRFIELD (EDKL) - TWR 122.425

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and they usually open up the hangars for you. If you don't have a car, you can take a train from Cologne central station line S6 to Bayerwerk Station. Leave the east side of the station, turn right at the bottom of the steps and walk to the roundabout. Go straight over the roundabout, ignoring the 'Flugplatz' sign that points left and after a few yards turn left onto a track. Continue for about ten minutes and when the track splits, this is the airport boundary. Bear left and follow the track round to the right, around the end of the runway and then right again onto the road which leads to the airfield.
Leverkusen Flying Club Website

LOCKTOW AIRFIELD - A/G 126.5

Spotting Info
If no one is around the hangar has gaps to read off all residents.
Locktow Airfield

LUBECK AIRPORT (EDHL/LBC) - TWR 128.7, GND 121.775

Spotting Info
Southside is the flying club though if no one's around the entrance will be padlocked shut. Whilst this area provides the best views across to the main terminal area, if you can't log from here you can visit the long term car park northside past the terminal.
Lubeck Airport

MAINZ AIRFIELD (EDFZ/QMZ) - A/G 119.15

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask at the tower for access to the hangars.

MANNHEIM CITY AIRPORT (EDFM/MHG) - TWR 118.4, APP 130.5

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask at the tower for access to the flying club. You'll need to check about access to the gliding club at the other end of the airfield, they may drive you over there.
Mannheim City Airport

MARXZELL AIRCRAFT MUSEUM

Spotting Info
The Marxzell Fahrzeugmuseum has 3 aircraft with a 4th, MiG15 75, displayed on top of a container in the museum car park around the corner.

MONCHENGLADBACH AIRPORT (EDLN/MGL) - TWR 118.125, GND 121.925

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and if available you'll be escorted round. D-AELL F27 is preserved here outside the flight school and is plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download. If you contact the Operations Manager in advance there's a better chance of escorted access round, resulting in a more complete log.
Monchengladbach Airport

MUNICH AIRPORT (EDDM/MUC) - TWR 118.7 & 119.4, APP 120.775 & 128.025, GND 121.825 & 121.925

Airport Info
Busy during the week with Saturday notably quiet in comparison. A good number of newer Lufthansa A340s are based here and won't be seen at Frankfurt. They use both runways for arrivals and departures at the same time.

Besucherterrasse (viewing terrace) and car park
The viewing terrace (Besucherterrasse) in Terminal 2 has views of the biz and GA but some park nose on. It also overlooks the Lufthansa short and long haul, Star Alliance carriers and commuter ramps but all non-Star Alliance carriers park out of sight on the other side of the terminals. Located on the 5th floor and is open 8am-10pm. Take the lift to the top floor and follow the signs for Observation Hall. Entry costs 2 Euros every time you want to enter and there are toilet facilities and a drinks stall nearby. It is partially sheltered by a glass roof. No problem identifying aircraft using T2 and biz but the runways are some distance away so you have to keep a close watch at all times, plus the curve of the glass means that you can miss some on landing - you'll have to wait for them to taxi back out if it's heading for T1. Check the weather reports before you leave too - you can see both runways and if they're using 26 they're landing and lining up in front of you and it's easy but there is distortion from the glass meaning some arrivals are tricky to read off. If they're using 08 then the views here are no good with any aircraft landing on 08R out of sight. You will most likely end up with a reduced log as you get very little time to react - you can't see anything of 08R until they get past your viewing point. They often turn off the runway long before reaching the viewing area so if they head to Terminal 1 you've missed them. You do get a little bit more notice on 08L as there is an area over the top of the terminal with a small view of the aircraft on their take off/landing run, but unlikely you will be able to read anything at this point. Turboprops are not too bad depending on how high they are when they go past you. If you have to use the terrace when they're using 08s, listen to a radio and make notes of anything you can't log to try and tie up later. It closes at 10pm but if you're still wanting to spot, the ramps are well lit. However, you can't see the cargo area - for this go to the top of the MSCP on Level 11 to see right across the cargo ramp and those parked on T1.

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Besucherpark (viewing park) and tours

The spotting mound known as Besucherhugel is located within the airports viewing park - Beuscherpark and is the best place to spend the day to log and to photograph. All movements can be logged from here regardless of runway usage, but you'll need to watch for the biz turning off 26 early as they soon disappear to the hangars. From the terminals, head down to the S-Bahn railway station located in the central area between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, buy a ticket for 2.40 Euros return (Einzelfahrkart 1 Zone button on the ticket machine) and go one stop to Besucherpark station on trains S1 or S8 - don't forget to stamp your ticket in the machine before you board the train. Tickets can also be obtained from the ticket office in Terminal 1. After leaving the train you can see the mound clearly on the right from the station, and it's then a 10 minute walk to get there over the bridge. Or you can walk from Terminal 1 by following the footpath. It will take 15-20 minutes but you can log as you go with views of all Terminal 1's stands, 08L/26R and 08R/26L in the distance. Entry to the mound costs 1 Euro at the coin-operated turnstiles, (although not always, look for a green arrow, if it is lit then for some reason you don't have to pay!) so you will have to keep paying 1 Euro each time you want to get a drink, use the toilet or take shelter from the weather. Stock up at the terminal if you need to before catching the train here, no restrictions on food or drink. 172 steps to go from the mound to the park, where the refreshments and toilets are. It's not as bad as it sounds, shallow steps at a gentle climb to cater for most abilities, with ramp access to the lower of the two levels. If you don't fancy the steps there's a path that winds round and up to the top. There are seats at the top but good weather at weekends mean it can get very busy. Because it's automatic, the park and mound are open 24 hours a day all year round, unless they close it due to adverse weather conditions. Cafe is open 10am-6pm and the shop is open 9am-5pm.

The airport tour runs from the viewing park: 3 times a day at weekends - 11:30, 13:30 and 15:30 and once a day at 13:30 during the week. It costs 8.50 Euros and covers most of the airside areas including the GA ramp, both terminal ramps, cargo and maintenance and the Lufthansa and Air Berlin hangars so you will log aircraft on this tour that you won't see from anywhere else. The tour lasts for about an hour and must be pre-booked in the administration office/shop within the viewing park an hour before the tour is due to leave. The preserved aircraft here are D-ANOY Ju52, HB-IRN DC3, D-HILF Bo105 and D-ALEM L1049. Each of the attractions has its own entry fee or it is possible to buy a combined ticket for 10 Euros. The combined ticket gives access to everything once including the ramp tour. Parking at the mound costs 12 Euros per day.

Spotting Airside
Airside you can walk the full length of Terminal 2. It takes a good 10 minutes to get from one end to the other, but you can see everything parked at the gates. It's not good to stay here for the day however, as you are stuck between the two runways and could miss something, you'll have to pick which runway to monitor. By reviewing the Munich arrivals website you can see what is due in and what parks on which terminal. Ramps are well lit after dark and you can still log once they've taxied in.

Planespotting Hotels - their locations are marked in the Spotting in Germany download

The only hotel that has views is the Kempinski Hotel and it's expensive. All other hotels are a bus or train ride away. The Kempinski Hotel is a 2 minute walk from the viewing area and is in between T1 and T2. You will need to get the right room and you will either see what's departing from T1 or T2 depending on what side of the hotel you are booked in to. There are only 4 floors to the hotel and the 3rd and 4th are executive rooms. Room 2018, for example, allows the departures to be seen. You will however have to stay on the viewing deck if you want everything.
The Kempinski Hotel features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

The Movenpick Hotel is about 4km from the airport. It is served by a shuttle bus costing 8 euros. There are no views of the airport from the rooms, but the hotel has good reviews and some good deals exist as well, particularly at weekends.
The Movenpick Hotel features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

The Airport Hotel Regent is a short shuttle bus ride away (6 Euros return) and costs 69 Euros for a twin room. Call the hotel on +49(0) 811 55040 when you are ready to be picked up from the airport (bus stop H17 at Terminal 2 or outside Terminal 1). Breakfast is 5 Euros - cold buffet before 7am or hot buffet after 7am.
The Airport Hotel Regent features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

At the NH Munich Airport Hotel, if they are using 26s you can get a view of the approach but the room, breakfast, car park and drinks are very expensive. 8 Euros per person on the shuttle so a taxi should be slightly cheaper.
The NH Munich Airport Hotel features on

for reviews, prices and room availability

Munich Airport

MUNSTER-OSNABRUCK AIRPORT (EDDG/MSR) - TWR 129.8, GND 121.875

Spotting Info
Head to the west end of the terminal building, where you will find stairs leading up to the viewing terrace. Great views from here and you can log everything parked on the aprons. There may be some biz and GA parked further off to the left but you should be able to walk or drive down there and read them off between gaps. In the terminal is a cafe with large panoramic windows offering similar views to the terrace but the odd purchase will be necessary. Northside is the flying club - friendly, ask for access and you should be escorted round the hangar.
Munster-Osnabruck Airport

NANNHAUSEN AIRFIELD (EDRN) - A/G 130.6

Spotting Info
If it's all locked up there are gaps in the hangar to log the residents.

NEUMARKT AIRFIELD (EDPO) - A/G 119.975

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access.

NEUMUNSTER AIRFIELD (EDHN/EUM) - A/G 125.1

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and you should be allowed round the hangars.
Neumunster Airfield

NIEDERSFELD PRESERVED AIRCRAFT

Spotting Info
Preserved at the side of the road next to the Kart Bahn are 23+83 MiG-21, 457 MiG-23, 4402 Mi-2 and 7902 MiG-21. Their locations are plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.

NIEDERSTETTEN AIRFIELD (ETHN) - TWR 122.1, A/G 119.775

Spotting Info
This military base has a civil flying club northside who are very friendly. Ask for access and they should let you round the hangars.

NIERSHORST-GREFRATH AIRFIELD (EDLF) - A/G 123.625

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access in the tower.
Niershorst-Grefrath Gliding Club

NITTENAU-BRUCK AIRFIELD (EDNM) - A/G 118.925

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access and you should be allowed round the hangar.

NUREMBERG AIRPORT (EDDN/NUE) - TWR 118.3, GND 118.1

Spotting Info
Good views from the terrace on the top of the terminal. For the biz ramp and hangars, turn right out of the terminal and follow the road round towards the control tower and past the Aero-Dienst hangars. Keep looking right between gaps and you'll walk past the hangars. You'll then be able to turn right and follow the fence to log the biz and GA. At night the ramp is well lit and you can read off the biz and Aero Dienst hangar.
Nuremberg Airport

OBERPFAFFENHOFEN AIRPORT (EDMO/OBF) - TWR 119.55 & 122.1

Spotting Info
Viewing here is quite poor as vantage points are some distance from the aircraft. Anything parked alongside the northwest taxiway and on the northern aprons can be read off by driving around the estate off the St2068 and around the roads near the northern hangars.
Oberpfaffenhofen Flying Club

OBERSCHLEISSHEIM AIRFIELD & OBERSCHLEISSHEIM AIRCRAFT MUSEUM (EDNX) - A/G 129.4

Spotting Info
The Deutsches Aircraft Museum is on the northern part of the airfield. There is a large dilapidated hangar that serves as the storage facility for the museum. There are airframes in there, but only seen by looking under the doors and through any holes. At the airfield, ask the controller in the hut for access, very friendly and they should open up the hangars for you.

OCHTENDUNG HELIPORT

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access, photos should be ok too.

OEDHEIM HELIPORT & OEDHEIM AIRFIELD

Spotting Info
Heliport mainly dealing with maintenance for Meravo Helicopters but there is also a gliding club here. Friendly, ask in the office for access to the hangars. The old helicopters are crammed into the storage hangar so you may need to climb around to read the plates.

OEHNA AIRFIELD (EDBO) - A/G 122.5

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access to the hangars.
Flaeming Air Flying Club

RAMSTEIN AIRBASE (ETAR/RMS) - TWR 133.2 & 386.75, GND 121.775 & 308.775

Spotting Info
The hill in Kindsbach gives excellent if distant views of the base. Powerful bins or scope required. The Kaiserstrasse is the main road through Kindsbach and near one of the pizza restaurants you need to head south on Steigstrasse. After the last house park up, head west along the footpath, past the barrier and head right. Just up ahead is a clearing overlooking the base. If you follow the path and carry on up the hill until you're above the quarry on the left this will give you a better view. Heat haze is often a problem here so visit late evening or early morning. The fence at the end of 08 also gives good views of the aprons - park sensibly, don't block the crash gate, and follow the path to the fence.

ROTHENBURG ob der TAUBER AIRFIELD (EDFR) - A/G 118.175

Spotting Info
Friendly, ask for access. Airfield is closed on Mondays.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Flying Club

SAARBRUCKEN AIRPORT (EDDR/SCN) - TWR 118.35 & 118.55

Spotting Info
The terminal has a well signposted terrace with glass windows. Good views of the aprons and runway though the glass is dirty. Very quiet, best to check for the busy times and drop by if you're in the area.
Sarrbrucken Airport

SAFFIG HELIPORT

Spotting Info
If no one's around you can see through the doors to log a few.

SCHLESWIG-JAGEL AIRBASE (ETNS) - TWR 122.1

Spotting Info
Three gate guards here near the runway threshold - 23+81 F-104, 43+96 Tornado and EB-250 RF-84. Their locations are plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.

SCHONHAGEN AIRFIELD (EDAZ/QXH) - A/G 131.15

Spotting Info
A very busy light aircraft airfield, even busier during the ILA Berlin Air Show. Very friendly, ask for access, no problems getting on to ramps and in hangars. The Cirrus facility and Aquila factory are friendly too.

SINSHEIM AIRFIELD & SINSHEIM AIRCRAFT MUSEUM

Spotting Info
Entry to Sinsheim Aircraft Museum is 13 Euros. The friendly gliding club is just up the road, though if you don't have transport it's a long walk.

SOMMERDA-DERMSDORF AIRFIELD (EDBS) - A/G 124.0

Spotting Info
Preserved here are 560 MiG-21, 22+29 MiG-21, 23+88 MiG-21 and 25+17 Su-22, one of which is alongside the road, the other three are parked together on the grass. 23+95 MiG-21 is the gate guard.
Sommerda-Dermsdorf Airfield Website

SPEYER AIRFIELD & SPEYER AIRCRAFT MUSEUM (EDRY/ZQC) - A/G 118.075

Spotting Info
Entry to the Speyer Aircraft Technik Museum is 13 Euros. The airfield is directly opposite the museum car park exit. Friendly, ask for access and you should be allowed round the hangars. There are two separate sides to this airfield so you'll need to drive to both.

STRAUSBERG AIRFIELD (EDAY) - A/G 123.05

Spotting Info
Friendly but cautious, ask for access and you should be allowed round.
Strausberg Airfield

STUTTGART AIRPORT (EDDS/STR) - TWR 118.8 & 119.05, 284.025 & 378.35, APP 119.85 & 280.8, GND 118.6

Spotting Info

Entry to the terrace on the 5th level of the terminal is 2.50EUR which should also be good for re-entry but you'll have to check before leaving the terrace. Open 0800-2100 in spring/summer and 0900-1800 in autumn/winter and there are toilets, a cafe and outside seats. There are self service luggage lockers next to Terminal 1 but taking cases onto the terrace is not a problem. Although it runs the full length of the three main terminals (Terminal 4 is offset from the main building), the terrace can only be accessed from Terminal 3. As the terminal and terrace are at the west end of the runway, if they are using runway 25 you may miss some biz and airliner departures in the morning if they are too high and into the sun. Away to the left are more remote stands with the GA area beyond that. You can read a few from the viewing terrace but a walk to the GA area is necessary to log them all. The Albatros Museum of Flight is on this terrace - Polish AF AN-2 2613 marked "SP-ANL", 'D-1' JUNKERS F-13 Replica, D-EHMG P149D, SP-SAW Mi-2, D-EOAR ME108 marked as "D-EFAG" (removed? scrapped?), D-EDHS Do27 marked as "D-PEPO". Looking south across the runway, you'll see the USAF and Police helicopter ramps, plus the stored Tu154 HA-LCB marked "D-AFSG". On top of the Rettungsflugwacht building just behind the cargo area is D-HBKB BK117 marked "D-HDRF" - it's visible from the viewing terrace. Off to the left of this area, you'll see a bespoke fire training rig, and a little further left is the stored C320 D-IBEK marked "D-ARTC" - there may be a better view of this from the GA area. If the weather is poor there are windows inside the terminal with good views.

The GA area is a 10-15 minute walk from the terminals, following the road and logging as you go. Leave the terminal on the arrivals level and turn right. Follow this past Terminal 4 and it bends to the left round a car park. The road then goes right - in front of you is the dual carriageway and running beside this is another road with a footpath that dips down. There is a large wall on the right side of the path. The wall then becomes a chain link fence next to the GA ramp. A slow walk will give various angles on things parked up. Continue walking and turn into the GA terminal car park where a few more can read off. No security problems here. Stored up against the wall of the hanger is Cessna 172 wreck D-ELBW.

Inside Terminal 1, E.3B-506 CASA 1.131 is hanging from the ceiling marked as "D-EBZE". Southside, at the entrance to the military area, D-FOBY HARVARD is the gate guard.

Once in departures there are plenty of windows to view from and you can go airside to the gate very early. If runway 25 is in use, departures are up high by the time they reach the gate area, so you need to turn left after security, walk as far as you can to the glass walled area near the restaurants and sit as close to the window as possible. If you weren't able to visit the GA area, a window seat on the port (left) side will give good views of the GA as you taxi past. Some aircraft parked on the remote stands are tail on and difficult to read off - you can usually log these on the bus ride out to your aircraft. There was a report that G-AVHE Viscount nose has been removed from the spectators terrace and was stored in a car park, visible while airside - this may have been removed now but it's one to look out for.

There are plenty of places to spot around the perimeter - southside will give you views looking north onto the remote parking and light aircraft aprons. To get here by car only, head away from the terminals and turn right at the first crossroads (if you reach the roundabout you've gone too far). This takes you past the GA area, then turn right to go under the runway. Turn right at the lights just after exiting the tunnel and park up for views. If you turn left at these lights and then immediately right, you can park up and spot from the Real supermarket car park. As well as food and drink, there's also a restaurant and toilets here. This is a popular place for spotters and photographers - a great deal can be read off and it's good for photos. If you continue along the main road, you'll reach the Tu154 HA-LCB which is easily photographed.

Planespotting Hotels - its location is marked in the Spotting in Germany download
The Hotel Alena, while not exactly close to the airport, has views across open farmland to the runway 25 threshold. You can't read any of the movements, but they can be easily seen and tied up with an SBS or equivalent. The best rooms are at the top, rooms 301 and 302 and the views are great. Room 207 on the 2nd floor is ok too. The hotel is run by Vera, who speaks good English and welcomes spotters so request these rooms and they will accommodate you if they can. They have a Greek restauraunt at the hotel and free Wi-Fi so apps like PlaneFinder will also come in very handy.
Stuttgart Airport, Stuttgart Aviation Association has lists of movements and STR Forum for movements tie ups.

TANNHEIM AIRFIELD (EDMT) - A/G 122.825

Spotting Info
Home of the huge annual Tannkosh Fly-In. 13 Euros entry on Saturday, 9 Euros on Sunday. Very friendly event, make sure you don't miss any aircraft parked beyond the corn! Friday appears to be the main arrivals day, most stay til the Saturday, with Sunday mainly for departures but you will still see new arrivals.
Tannheim Airfield

TORNESCH AIRFIELD (EDHO) - A/G 122.6

Spotting Info
Only a small handful of residents but if it's all locked up you can read some off through the hangar window.

TWISTEDEN PRESERVED AIRCRAFT

Spotting Info
At Irrland Park in Twisteden are a number of aircraft used in the park or stored nearby. All can be seen from outside the park. Both 4602 Mi-2 in green colours and RA-31516 An-2 in red colours are unmarked and high up on the top of rides in the Funparc. SP-CET PZL-101 in white and black safari colours is also present, whilst MM6356 G-91T in tiger colours is at Irrland Sud. MM583 G222 minus tail is in a nearby field opposite the An2, either alongside Kevelaererstrasse or the track off to the right that runs alongside the park - it's engines are laying alongside buildings on the other side of the Kevelaererstrasse. Where known, their locations are plotted in the Spotting in Germany Download.

UETERSEN AIRFIELD (EDHE) - A/G 122.7

Spotting Info
The civil aircraft are on the south side of the airfield. In the southwestern corner are some hangars and glider boxes, usually locked up but there may be someone around to ask for access. With these hangars on your left, continue along until you reach the main airfield with a cafe and Air Hamburg offices. Ask in the Air Hamburg office and if available you may be escorted round the hangar. The gate guard is JB+110 Sabre. Northside, 22+06 F-104 is preserved at the Unteroffizierschule der Luftwaffe on Richthofenstrasse off the L106 Uetersen to Appen road.
Uetersen Gliding Club

WALLDORF AIRFIELD (EDGX) - A/G 118.275

Spotting Info
If it's all locked up the hangar as a window to log the residents.
Walldorf Flying Club

WEEZE AIRPORT (EDLV/NRN) - TWR 129.4

Spotting Info
Anything parked on the main apron can be read off easily as you drive past.

Transfer to/from Dusseldorf
Transfer to Dusseldorf takes around an hour and a half via bus then train - more information can be found here at the Bahn

Weeze Airport

WEITERSTADT PRESERVED AIRCRAFT

Spotting Info
At the Loop 5 shopping mall in Weiterstadt, 6910 MiG21 is hanging upside down from the ceiling and unmarked. 1621 TS-11 is inside Dielmann Shoes store. Also displayed in the mall are "425/17" Dr1 and "NX211" Ryan NYP - both are full scale models.

WORMS AIRFIELD (EDFV) - A/G 124.6

Spotting Info
Very friendly, ask for access in the tower and you should be allowed round the hangars. Though some pilots and owners may stop you from entering the hangars housing their aircraft.
Worms Airfield, Worms Flying Club

WUNSTORF AIRBASE & WUNSTORF AIRCRAFT MUSEUM (ETNW)

Spotting Info
Just before the main gate to the base is a museum with 6 exhibits, entry is 3.50 Euros. Various places to read the Transalls around the perimeter but the roads are narrow and there are only a few places to pull over and then walk. Heat haze will be a problem in the summer due to the distance.

ZWEIBRUCKEN AIRPORT (EDRZ/ZQW) - TWR 123.825

Spotting Info
Various views from around the northern perimeter mean you can log most if not all parked out on the aprons.
Zweibrucken Airport