Roberta Aguirre
Birmingham Airport offers several spots for plane spotting. Aviation enthusiasts can enjoy watching planes take off and land from various locations within and outside the airport. The airport itself has a dedicated viewing area in Car Park 5, offering a fantastic view of the runway and even picnic benches, perfect for a family day out. This area is free to access and open 24 hours a day. For those seeking a different vantage point, the upper deck of the airport parking garage provides a panoramic view of the entire runway for a small fee. Additionally, plane spotters have shared their favourite spots outside the airport, such as East Lake Boulevard in front of Coca-Cola and a duck-off spot on Runway Drive, offering unique perspectives of aircraft in action.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Car Park 5, next to the airfield perimeter fence |
| Cost | Free |
| Parking Charges | Applicable after the first 15 minutes |
| View | Fantastic view of the whole runway |
| Amenities | Picnic benches |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours daily |
| Attractions | Cameras to control and look around the runway, speakers with ATC |
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What You'll Learn
The upper deck of the airport parking garage
The parking garage is located directly across from the main terminal building, just a
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Car Park 5
The viewing area within Car Park 5 is conveniently located next to the airfield perimeter fence, with clear signposts guiding visitors to the spot. This location ensures that visitors can get up close to the aircraft and enjoy uninterrupted views of the airfield action. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or just seeking a unique outdoor experience, Car Park 5 offers a captivating experience for all ages.
Picnic benches are provided in the viewing area, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a relaxing day observing the planes. The area is open 24 hours a day, providing flexibility for visitors to choose their preferred time to visit. Whether it's the thrill of witnessing a take-off during the bustling daytime or the serene experience of watching landings under the starry night sky, Car Park 5 accommodates all preferences.
While the viewing area itself is free to access, standard car park charges apply after the first 15 minutes. This means that visitors can quickly pop in to catch a glimpse of the planes without incurring any parking fees. However, for those planning to spend a more extended period at the viewing area, standard parking rates will apply, providing convenient access to all the amenities that Birmingham Airport has to offer.
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East Lake Blvd by the Coca-Cola fence
If you're looking for a spot to watch planes at Birmingham Airport, one popular place is East Lake Boulevard by the Coca-Cola fence. This spot has been recommended by several plane enthusiasts on forums, some of whom have been visiting this location for over 20 years.
To find this spot, look for East Lake Boulevard, and specifically, the section of the road that is in front of the Coca-Cola facility. You can park your car on the side of the street by the fence. While you don't have to park directly in front of Coca-Cola, some people prefer to drive a little further down the road, in front of the Alpha Charlie Grill, which also offers a great view.
This location is ideal for plane spotting as it provides a clear view of planes taking off and landing. It can get quite loud, though, depending on the type of plane. It's a good idea to bring a stepladder if you want to get a better view over the fence and get some photos. Additionally, using the FlightRadar24 app can enhance your experience by allowing you to see where the planes are going and look up their departure times.
Remember to be considerate when visiting this spot and don't leave any trash behind. Also, be cautious of the surrounding area, as some have noted that it may not be the best part of town.
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Runway Dr, on top of the hill
To get to Runway Drive, you can drive down East Lake Boulevard, in front of Coca-Cola, and park on the side of the street by the fence. From there, you can walk up the hill to Runway Drive. This spot is popular among plane enthusiasts and offers a unique perspective of the runway and aircraft.
Another option for plane spotting at Birmingham Airport is the dedicated viewing area within Car Park 5, located next to the airfield perimeter fence. This area offers a great view of the runway and is perfect for observing aircraft take-offs and landings. It is also free to access and provides picnic benches, making it an excellent choice for a family day out.
Birmingham Airport's runway has been described as bumpy and undulating, with consistent crosswinds, which might add to the excitement of plane spotting. The airport also offers an upper deck of the parking garage, which provides a fantastic view of the entire runway for a small fee.
Whether you choose to visit the official viewing area in Car Park 5 or explore spots like Runway Drive, Birmingham Airport offers plenty of opportunities for plane spotting and enjoying the spectacle of aircraft arrivals and departures.
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Alpha Charlie cafe
If you're looking for a spot to watch planes at Birmingham Airport, one popular choice is the Alpha Charlie Grill, affectionately dubbed "Alpha Charlie Cafe" by some. Located at 4900 East Lake Boulevard, Alpha Charlie offers one of the best up-close views of planes taking off and landing. The aviation-themed restaurant is just across from the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, providing the perfect front-row seat to watch the aircraft in action.
The unique interior design of Alpha Charlie Grill features chairs, tables, and a bar crafted from real airplane parts. The roof even includes lights and exit signs from a plane, and the restrooms have functional exit doors. Outside, the patio boasts an airport tower from Mobile Airport, complete with a wind sock and operational lights. This makes it an ideal spot for plane spotting while enjoying your meal.
The menu at Alpha Charlie is just as aviation-themed as the decor. It offers a range of options, from pre-flight snacks to hearty main courses. Their famous Alpha Charlie burger is a highlight, along with loaded bison burgers and baskets of boneless wings. The breakfast menu, aptly named "Redeye," includes Belgian waffles, omelets, and the "pre-deployment" breakfast with eggs, bacon, and biscuits. For the little aviators, they even have plane-shaped kids' meal boxes, making it a fun family destination.
Alpha Charlie is a great place to catch a glimpse of the planes while enjoying a delicious meal. The restaurant is currently serving breakfast and late lunch and hopes to extend its hours to dinnertime soon. So, whether you're a plane enthusiast, a family seeking a unique outing, or simply craving wings and a view, Alpha Charlie Grill is worth a visit.
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Frequently asked questions
Birmingham Airport offers a dedicated viewing area in Car Park 5, next to the airfield perimeter fence.
Car park charges apply after the first 15 minutes.
Yes, there are picnic benches.
The upper deck of the parking garage has a fantastic view of the whole runway, but this option comes with a fee.
Yes, there is a duck-off spot on Runway Dr., which is on top of a hill where most planes fly over to land on the longer runway approach.
