Bandirma

1Northern approach - Hotel Asuhan

Aircraft on finals for runway 18 overfly the city of Bandirma. The base borders the southern suburbs and is fenced off by a wall, so there's not much to see here. Moreover, it is hard to find a quiet spot in the city to practice your hobby. Probably the best location to stay is Hotel Asuhan, at Atatürk Caddesi 253 (€20 to €25 per night). Be sure to ask for a room on the frontside, as high as possible. From here, you have good views of the approach from your hotel room and you are even able to read off the aircraft lining up for departure from runway 18. When runway 36 is in use, the same applies to aircraft leaving the runway at the threshold. From the top floor of the hotel stairs lead up to the roof. When the door is unlocked you can climb the tiled roof, which will give you a nice overview of this part of the airfield. You will be able to see the preserved aircraft from here as well. Just make sure you are not visible from the apartment block across the street. This place is best in the morning until around 11.00 AM, which is also your ultimate check out time.

2Southern approach - Dogruca

The southern threshold of Bandirma can also be reached, although it is a long way around and not a spot to stay long. From the city, head south to Bursa, for 7kms from the large roundabout at the end of Atatürk Caddesi. Turn right to the small village of Dogruca at the intersection where the left turn heads towards Ömerli. Go across the railroad, turn right and then left and on to Dogruca. After entering the village turn right at the main square and keep right at the next fork in the road, going west. After leaving the village the road will turn into a dirt road bending to the north, follow this road for almost 5kms from the main square, you will pass a couple of forks on your way. At the first real T-junction turn left, there's a couple of trees where you can park your car. From here, you have good views of the aircraft on finals for runway 36. You will also be able to read off aircraft lining up for departure and aircraft leaving the runway when runway 18 is in use. The coast guard helicopter on detachment can be read off from here as well. However, as you are in flat farmland here you are clearly visible from the fields around you and from the road and watch towers on the base.