General spotting conditions in the USA

[Rembrandt]

I would really like to go to some large US airports (JFK-ORD-BOS-Miami) in the near future.
But I have no idea of how spotters-friendly they are now, in comparison with the 5 years after 9-11.

At which large airports do I have the best chance of succeeding without much hassle of security? I usually only use binoculars and a note-book. Photos are a secundary priority for me.

I experienced an unwelcome encounter with NYPD when taking a picture in 2005, I don't really like to go through such a thing again...

Any help would be very welcome.

Thanks

[nry50]

Hi there,

Went to the USA in February this year. Flew initially to Philadelphia where I spotted airside for 4 hours quite discreetly, just using mini bins when required and was not bothered at all. Flew on to Miami where I stayed at the "Comfort Inn and Suites" from which the 2 near runways arrivals/departures could be identified easily. the other runways action could also be seen from here, but an SBS would be needed to tie registrations up. Walked from the hotel one day to an area near the "Signature FBO" where I spotted for about 7 hours without being bothered but then was told to move on by an over zealous cop who was one his way home. Had another days spotting from the "94th Aero Squadron" restaurant on the opposite side of the airport from which views of the 2 runways furthest from the hotel and the cargo area are easy to see. Also had 2 days at Fort Lauderdale International, viewing from the Hibiscus parking garage at the airport, this has a dedicated viewing area where I was able to spot unhindered. FLL is an absolutely brilliant airport, made 400+ in 2 visits, a mixture of airliners, biz, g/a and many exotic regs.

Hope this helps,

Regards,

Neil.

[Tingy]

I have been at JFK for almost 2 years agoo.
Been there in a public park close to Inwood, BY Motts Basin.
The exactly road is Molt avn. You park the car, at the end of the road, and go into the park, at the bayside. Take some food , and drinks, because there is nothing there. People sometimes ask you frendly what you do, but that is it. It is very relaxed there, and enjoying to stay.

The park is really nice for your target, and not known by everyone.
It looks a little remoted, but with 20x 50 telescope I could read everything, at the airport, take offs ,and landings, and didn`t mis a thing for the whole day.
They only have to use incomming runways on that side, witch they mostly do. Taking pictures is possible with 300/400 mm, depending landing runways.

Been to USA many times last few years, and spotting without to much problems. Know one thing here, that you are doing nothing wrong around airports in public areas, like Parking lots, Parks etc. Police can check what you are doing, and check ID. Mostly they leave you again.Becarefull not to brake traffic rulls.
At some airports they can send you away, witch never happened to me. Be open and do normal, and use your mind, and proberly nothing will happens.

Good luck Frans

[conconnie]

Hi, I went to Atlanta and Miami 2 years ago. At Miami, The 94th Aero Squadron is good for "loggers", but a waste of time for photographers, because between the car park and the fence is a busy road and a railroad and you are not allowed to use stairs within 10 feet ( about 3,3.5 meters) from the fence. The best place is at 25th street(west side of the field) near the customs clearing building. there are special holes in the fence. At least 2 years ago they were still there. I spent 2 days there without anyone interfering. I had an excellent time there. Atlanta was a long transit and as long as you keep in motion you can get most of the traffic. Airline staff don't like it there. At least thats is my experience.

good luck.