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Image Courtesy: Airborne YVR, Pexel

AeroPointers

AeroPointers is your go-to platform for aircraft spotting at some of the most important airports across the US and Canada. Whether you’re a seasoned spotter or just starting out, we provide detailed guides to the best viewing areas, photos, photography tips, airport layouts, and local spotting rules. Built by aviation enthusiasts, for aviation enthusiasts — AeroPointers helps you explore, capture, and enjoy the world of aviation like never before.

Image Courtesy: New York TImes
Dustin Snipes, 2017

Our Photo Collection

Explore our growing gallery of aircraft photos captured at some of the busiest and most iconic airports in the US and Canada. Most images are taken by the AeroPointers team, along with contributions from our extensive spotting database. Feel free to share these photos with proper attribution, or even better — submit your own and become part of the AeroPointers community. Let’s celebrate the art of aircraft spotting together!

Kazi Samiul, 2024

Explore all Aircraft’s

Discover a wide variety of aircraft models, liveries, and airline fleets — from massive commercial jets to sleek general aviation planes. Whether it’s a powerful takeoff, a graceful landing with tire smoke, or a quiet moment at the gate, every aircraft has a story and style of its own. At AeroPointers, we celebrate the beauty, diversity, and passion behind aviation photography. For spotters and aviation lovers alike, this collection is a tribute to the skies — and the machines that rule them.

✈️ Plane Spotting for Beginners: Your First Flight Into the Hobby

Aviation is more than just flying from A to B. It’s a world full of passion, precision, and beauty — and plane spotting is one of the best ways to experience it up close. Whether you’re a casual observer or looking to dive into aviation photography, this guide will help you get started with everything you need to know.

What Is Plane Spotting?

Plane spotting is the hobby of observing, tracking, and often photographing aircraft. If you’ve ever looked up at the sky to watch a plane pass overhead, you’ve already taken your first step into spotting!

The term “plane spotter” goes back to World War II, when civilians were encouraged to watch the skies and report enemy aircraft. Today, it’s all about the thrill of seeing different aircraft, identifying them, and capturing the moment — no war reports required.

How Do You Spot a Plane?

There are a few main ways people spot planes:

  • Logging: Noting down the aircraft registration, airline, and type (just like license plates for planes!).
  • Photography: Using a camera to snap photos or shoot videos of planes taking off, landing, or taxiing.
  • Tracking: Using flight-tracking apps to monitor aircraft movements in real-time.

Websites like SpottingLog.com, PlaneLogger.com, or apps like Flightradar24 and ADSBxChange are amazing tools for modern spotters.

Getting Started With Gear

Want to level up your spotting game? Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a good zoom lens is ideal. Mobile phones can work, but long-distance shots are tricky.
  • Binoculars: Great for reading aircraft registrations if you’re not taking photos.
  • Essentials: A small ladder (to see over airport fences), sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothes.
  • Apps & Tools: Use flight trackers to plan your spotting sessions around arrivals and departures.

Finding the Perfect Spot

Start at your local airport. Many airports have official observation decks, but the best views are often just outside the perimeter.

To find the best spots:

  • Check SpotterGuide.net – it’s the #1 global resource for spotting locations.
  • Use social media (like local Facebook groups or Instagram) to connect with fellow spotters.
  • Consider sunlight and weather — always try to have the sun behind you for clean, clear shots.

Choose Your Targets

Some spotters chase rare liveries or special airline paint jobs. Others focus on military aircraft, cargo planes, helicopters, or business jets. Find what excites you most!

Tips:

  • Avoid “belly shots” – stand at an angle where you can see the aircraft’s full profile.
  • Go when the light is right – sunny, clear days are best. Cloudy or rainy weather can hurt image quality.
  • Watch for heat haze – it can distort your photo, especially from long distances over hot pavement.

Final Approach

Plane spotting is more than just a hobby — it’s a community and a passion. It teaches patience, sharpens your eye, and connects you with aviation in a unique and exciting way.

At AeroPointers, we’re all about sharing that joy. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, we’re here to guide you through every step of your spotting journey.