Havana-Jose Marti Intl (MUHA/HAV) - 2011

[phkza]

REQ: Tips for spotting at Havana (Cuba)


Hi all,

In a few weeks I’ll be in Havana, Cuba a couple of days for a work related conference.

I’ll be landing and departing from Havana International Airport (HAV/MUHA) with Martinair. I was wondering, does anyone have experience with spotting in or around this airport?

I’ve read the spotters guide so there have to be some possibilities, but I can imagine security is be tight at the island. Also, bringing a Canon 5D plus 400mm lens could arouse some suspicion if spotting isn’t allowed.

Can anyone share some (recent) experiences?

[Caravelle]

Hi phkza,

In 2002 I decided to visit the airport on a free day. It was not a problem. Look at the map of the airport on Scramble "where to go".
Point 1 is high enough to take pictures over the fence. I saw no security here.
Point 4 was good for landing aircraft. If you keep low profile no problems.
It is very easy to walk alongside the airport. There is security but if you behave yourself they do not bother you.
At point 2 they sent me away because I was walking on the grass as I remember.
They did not ask for my passport or anything else.

So enjoy the moment. I think they still fly with the Il-62 on occasion beside the other Russian airplanes . There is always a nice surprise like a classic jet (737-200 or 727) from the south of America.

good luck Andre