ArubaAviation.com Plane Spotting on Aruba

Plane Spotting in Aruba

Although Aruba got a new and modern airport building it did not include a plane spotting area (as in the old building). In the past there was a lounge on
the second floor where one can sit, have a drink, eat something & watch aircraft movements. Despite the elimination of this lounge by the Aruba Airport
Authority there are still several good plane spotting areas in Aruba.

Spotting from Renaissance Island

Probably one of the best & coolest spots is at the Sonesta Island. With a stay at the Sonesta Hotel you get access to this private island which location is
next to the runway 11. You can stay at the popular area (with bars, gym, store, etc.) on the island & have a great view or walk to the tip of the "rif" and watch
the planes pass right over you at a height of about 50-100 feet.

Next to Taxiway G

A popular spotting place is next to the taxiway G where one can sit and actually listen to the Controller talking to the pilots. There are 2 of these roofed
facility next to the taxiway. You will be very close to the taxing aircrafts and have a great picture opportunity although avoid late afternoon because of the
backlight. For take offs & landings this is probably the best place although you will not have a view of the apron.

South side

The south side is one of the less known yet best places to spot in Aruba. Here you will get a clear view of the runway & main apron.
Excellent photos can be taken from the south side. We at ArubaAviation.com rank it as the best plane spotting area in Aruba.

South side apron

Also on the south side you can get very close to the general aviation apron. You will have a very good view of the aircrafts with excellent picture
opportunities. The main apron is also visible but the runway is mostly obstructed.

Runway 29

Although spotting at runway 29 is a rare you can do some spotting and one can actually get very close to the runway but because of the elevation you will
have VERY limited view of the apron. The runway and the rest of the airport is practically not visible. If runway 29 is in use you will have a very nice view of
the landing aircrafts. Departing aircrafts will also turn right in front of you giving you nice picture angles.