Locarno

1Entrance road

Entering the airport from the Strada Cantonale brings you directly to this spot. Cars should be parked further down the road to the left, near spot 2. Spot 1 offers excellent views of the paved runway and taxiway to 26R, the REGA facilities and the taxiway to the large hangar 5. The road straight ahead towards the military area is closed to the public, and being in Switzerland one sticks to the rules. We included the road on our map just for orientation.

2Civil aviation

The central area of Aeroporto Cantonale Locarno offers close views onto most of the parking spots for civil aircraft. There is also an unobstructed view of both grass runways, albeit with backlight most of the day. You get here by simply following the public road from spot 1. While doing so, a few glimpses of the large military apron can be had between the buildings along the road.

3North side

Another excellent viewing point for the northern half of the field, if looking into the sun most of the day is not a problem. To get here from the previous spots, leave the airport to the left, then carry on to the roundabout as indicated and turn back there to the Via ai Pontini. Several spots can be chosen along this road as you prefer.

4West side

For the people who want to have a look at the military platform or photograph the operations on 08L and the taxiway connecting the two airfield halves, spot 4 offers those possibilities. It is, however, officially off-limits as indicated by signs. The local farmer reportedly does not object to aviation enthusiasts being around. If you decide to carry on, continue on the road from spot 3, turn left at the T-junction and find a spot along the fence near the farm. Clearly, you are doing this at your own risk.

5South-east side

For look at the 'green' part of flying operations, proceed to spot 5. Leave the airport to the right to get there and exit the main road just before the bridge over the Ticino river starts. On the right-hand side, that is also the entrance to the glider flying club. Park somewhere out of the way and then choose position on the pedestrian byway of the Strada Cantonale.