Aircraft viewing

[paul_y3k]

Hi all,
Went for a drive the other day via Brize Norton and had to stop on the road due to something big n heavy coming in to land. When the lights went out we were surprised to see a couple of cars parked up with the occupants all excited with their camera's out.
Is there anyway they knew what was coming, or was it just pot luck ?

We often drive over to Kemble and Staverton to watch the little planes fly in, but wouldn't mind seeing something bigger ourselves from time to time.

[Eric Mc]

Spotters and avaiation photographers have networks where advance notice of intersting and unusual visitors are circulated. I was a keen spotter in the 1970s and even in those pre-internet days it was amazing how quickly a piece of information about some unusual aeroplane would make its way around the grapevine.

[DamienB]

On a weekday you can expect any of the major RAF stations to be fairly busy (though nothing like Heathrow!), Brize will usually see at least a couple of movements an hour, often more. Google 'brize norton viewing guide' for parking spots etc.

[Fat Albert]

During the school holidays when the crash gates would be chock full of Dads and sons we never ever,ever stood out on the step in a macho pose as we swept in over the top at 50' and 90kts....no never.... ;¬)

[Nickyboy]

Brize is very busy for an RAF base, mainly as its the main supply base for overseas activities so you have numerous flights in and out of the RAF planes and numerous other cargo/passenger planes. As i come along the A34 of an evening i quite often see a Tristar or C17 turning for final approach, have also sat and watched when working on a Saturday as planes come in to land. You get a good side view on the A4095 near Lew of them getting lower on the approach