Aviano

1Spot 1 - 05 approach

The first spot is the approach of runway 05 along road SP31. From here you have a good view of the aircraft approaching the base (either reading or photography) and taking off (reading only). Position yourself behind the tree line to keep a low profile, however photography will be resticted due to the same tree line. In summer the field could be used for mais, which is quite high. In winter there will be no crop so you will be quite exposed. For photography it is advised to move to spot 2. To get to spot 1 head for the SP31 in Roveredo in Piano (towards Budoia). Park your car at the restaurant you will pass at your left and walk towards this spot.

2Spot 2 - 05 approach

The photographic and advised alternative to spot 1. This spot, more hidden from the public road, can be reached by walking from the SP31 to the West along the water drainage ditch. Cross this ditch when you are next to the apple tree field to have the best position. You will need 350 mm digital for the local F-16s. You can park your car at the small restaurant at your left or continue this road to the left of the SP13 to park at the first dirt road to the right. From here walk to the same apple tree field.

3Spot 3 - 05 approach PM

This is the late afternoon spot for runway 05. From 4PM the sun has headed for the West that much that you can reposition to this spot along the SP31 to avoid facing the sun.

4Spot 4 - 23 approach

This spot is a good one if runway 23 is in use or for some nice banking fighters in departure from 08. From here you can photograph and read the aircraft coming in (and read the ones taking off). Standing on the road is not advisable as you are exposed to any police or all other traffic on this busy road. Driving to Aviano along the SP7/Via Pioneri dell'Aria and next to the airfield there is a small house at your right, after you have passed the traffic lights. There is a small road between this house and a small forest. Drive into this road and park your car behind the stone wall. Follow the tree line away from the road which will a bend to the left. At the end there is a high fence but if you stand on the grass field you will have a proper view onto the traffic.

5Spot 5 - 23 approach PM

As with runway 05 you can also reposition yourself along the SP7 when the sun is facing you. After 4PM this position North of spot 4 is an alternative. Again, a position just a bit further away is advised.