Ruth Haines
Memphis International Airport (MEM) is a small but surprisingly option-filled airport that serves thousands of passengers every month. While the airport is not very aviation-enthusiast-friendly, with some people reporting being hassled by police and airport authorities for taking pictures, there are still several spots where plane-watching is possible. So, if you're looking for the best places to watch planes at Memphis International Airport, here are some options to consider.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Memphis International Airport (MEM) |
| Airlines | Delta, Southwest, United, American, American Eagle, Air Canada |
| Aircraft | DC10, MD11, Boeing 777 jets, FedEx planes |
| Plane-watching spots | Cell phone lot, Memphis airport parking garage, Stairwell on the south side of the 7th level of the economy parking garage, Nellie Road/Spot 4, Old residential area near Airways Blvd. and Shelby Dr., Louis Caruthers Dr. |
| Tips | Plane-watching is better in the afternoon at the parking garage and off-airport Airways Blvd. areas; Morning is better for photography at the cell phone lot |
| Ease of access | Accessible by foot or public transport; parking available at the cell phone lot |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
The best spots for plane spotting at Memphis International Airport
Plane spotting at Memphis International Airport can be challenging due to reports of plane spotters being hassled by police and airport authorities. However, there are still some spots where you can try to capture the perfect shot of planes.
One of the best places to watch planes used to be the old residential area near Airways Blvd. and Shelby Dr. Several years ago, the City purchased the homes in this area due to noise complaints about FedEx's heavy jets operating at night, and plane enthusiasts could watch from the vacant land. However, the airport has since installed "no parking" signs in this area.
Another spot to try is along Louis Caruthers Dr., which leads from Shelby Dr. to the Airport Postal Facility and offers a very close view of the aircraft.
If you're looking for a place to take photographs, the Memphis airport parking garage provides a limited view of the centre runway, and the airport authority seems to be fine with people watching from there.
For a good view of aircraft landing, try the cell phone waiting lot. Take the John McGehee Pkwy exit from Winchester Blvd. and follow the signs. This spot is just off the end of runway 18R. Keep in mind that photography is likely best in the morning, as you'll be facing west, and you may need a long lens for smaller aircraft.
Finally, if you're looking for ground shots of FedEx and military planes, spots 1 and 2 are your best bet if you're on foot. You can access the parking garages, including the newly built rental car parking garage, and possibly catch a glimpse of FedEx operations.
Manchester Airport Overnight: Is It Possible?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The parking garage at the airport
The parking garage at Memphis International Airport (MEM) is one of two covered parking facilities at the airport. It is well-lit, and vehicle assistance is available for free in case of any car trouble. The airport also offers a rewards program called MEMperks, which allows you to earn points when you park at the airport. These points can be exchanged for free parking.
The parking garage has multiple levels, with economy parking available on levels 3 to 7 of the Ground Transportation Center (GTC). There are 4,554 spaces available in the economy parking area, which can be accessed by following the appropriate signs when you arrive at the airport. The first left exit past the GTC will take you into the facility, and another quick left turn will lead you to the economy parking area.
The parking garage offers a limited view of the center runway, but it is reportedly one of the spots where the airport authority is okay with people watching planes. There is also a stairwell on the south side of the 7th level of the economy parking garage that offers amazing overlooks of the entire airport. However, some people have mentioned that the top level of the parking garage has a limited view due to the grids sticking above the 7th floor.
In addition to the main parking garage, the airport also has two overflow parking lots: the Blue Lot (west side) and the Yellow Lot (east side). These lots are used when the other garages are at full capacity, with the Blue Lot opening first. Parking in these lots costs $9 per day when used as overflow, and payment can be made by credit card only. Accessible spaces are available in all parking areas, and electric vehicle charging stations can be found on level 5 of the parking garage.
Paying for International Flights: Airport Options
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The old residential area near Airways Blvd and Shelby Dr
If you're interested in plane spotting at Memphis International Airport, one popular spot is the old residential area near Airways Boulevard and Shelby Drive. This location offers several advantages for aviation enthusiasts:
Proximity to the Airport: Airways Boulevard and Shelby Drive are major thoroughfares that run close to the airport's perimeter. The old residential area in this vicinity provides easy access to viewing spots without venturing too far into congested airport areas.
Variety of Aircraft: Memphis International Airport is a busy hub for various types of aircraft. From this location, you can expect to see a diverse range of planes, including You may want to see also The cell phone lot at Memphis International Airport (MEM) is a convenient and free waiting area for those picking up passengers. It is located to the right of the main drive, just after you enter the airport grounds. It is equipped with flight information displays, showing arrival times, and has enhanced lighting. The cell phone lot is also a great spot for plane spotting and photography. One plane spotter reported getting over 200 photographs in a 2-hour period, without any issues from the police. The lot is just off the end of runway 18R and has a good view of aircraft landing. It is recommended that you bring a long lens for smaller aircraft and that you photograph in the morning, as you’ll be facing west. The cell phone lot is also a good spot for close-up shots of large planes taxiing. It is recommended that you photograph in the afternoon, as the sun will be behind you. To access the cell phone lot, take the John McGehee Pkwy exit from Winchester Blvd. and follow the signs to the right. Please note that if you park in the cell phone lot, you must remain with your vehicle. You may want to see also Plane spotters, listen up! If you're looking for a great spot to watch planes at Memphis International Airport, there are a few places that might be perfect for you. Keep in mind that plane spotting around Memphis airport can be challenging as the airport is not very aviation-enthusiast friendly. Several people have reported being hassled by police and airport authorities for taking pictures. One of the best places to watch planes used to be the old residential area near Airways Blvd. and Shelby Dr. However, the City purchased all of the homes in this area due to noise complaints about FedEx’s heavy jets operating at night, and the vacant land was a great spot to watch planes. Unfortunately, the airport then installed “no parking” signs everywhere, making it difficult to access. Another area that offers a very close view of the aircraft is along Louis Caruthers Dr., which leads from Shelby Dr. to the Airport Postal Facility and some warehouses. If you're looking for a more official plane spotting location, the Memphis airport parking garage offers a limited view of the centre runway, and the airport authority seems to be okay with people watching from there. The cell phone waiting lot is another option, located just off the end of runway 18R, offering a good view of aircraft landing. Now, let's talk about nearby hotels for plane spotters. Here are some options: Extended Stay America - Memphis - Airport Located in Memphis, this hotel is designed for longer stays, with all rooms featuring a fully equipped kitchen. It offers great value for money, a good location, and a friendly staff. A daily hot breakfast and seasonal outdoor pool are also available. VillaQuèFrancia near Elvis Presley's Graceland This hotel is just 6.5 miles from the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and 8.6 miles from Brown. It's also only 6 minutes from the airport, with a shuttle service available. Comfort Inn Memphis Airport West Located off Interstate 240, this hotel is less than a 10-minute drive from Graceland. They offer a daily continental breakfast and free WiFi in all areas. Fairfield Inn & Suites Memphis I-240 & Perkins This hotel is located within 8.5 miles of the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and 9.3 miles of Graceland. They offer an excellent breakfast, clean facilities, and amazing staff. Travelodge by Wyndham Memphis Airport/Graceland Just 1.7 miles from Graceland and 4.4 miles from the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, this hotel offers an outdoor pool and a free airport shuttle service. Rooms also have free Wi-Fi and Cable TV. You may want to see also Some of the best spots to watch planes at Memphis International Airport include the old residential area near Airways Blvd. and Shelby Dr., the airport parking garage, the cell phone lot and waiting lot, and the stairwell on the south side of the 7th level of the economy parking garage. It is recommended to call security in advance before visiting certain spots, such as the Applied College of Technology, as some people have reported being hassled by police and airport authorities for taking pictures. Additionally, consider the time of day and lighting when choosing a spot, as certain locations are better photographed in the morning or afternoon. Southaven, Mississippi has several hotels located just a few minutes from the airport, offering convenient access and amenities for plane spotters.Heathrow Airport: Best Places to Exchange Currency
Explore related products
The cell phone lot near the airport
Manchester Airport: Filling Water Bottles Allowed?
Explore related products
Nearby hotels for plane spotters
Las Vegas Airport Smoking: What You Need to Know
Frequently asked questions
