CDG Info
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October 24, 2014
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October 27, 2014Paris Charles de Gaulle Spotting Guide
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- last modified on February 24, 2020
Paris CDG airport is the main gateway to France with 69,4 Mio. passengers in 2018 and has mainly international flights, but also domestic and regional flights. Air France, Easy JET and Fedex have a Hub in cdg. There are flights operated to all continents except for Australia. Except Qantas, all the airlines operating A380s fly CDG on a daily basis. There are also many 787 (Ethiopian, Kenya Airways, JAL, Air India, Aero Mexico ) and the Air France engineering center may also bring some exotic aircraft from time to time. There are also a lot of cargo destinations but unfortunatly, most of them (except Fedex) run operations during night time.
To be honest, Paris is not the most spotter friendly place in Europe. A photo permit is required, there is no real allocated parking spaces and it takes between 10 to 20 minutes to move from a spotting location to the other one.
The four runways are always opened but some spotting locations are far away from the inner runways and because of that, a minimum of 300 mm lens is required.
The best thing to do if you really want to get a picture of a particular aircraft is to use a radio scanner. Moving around with a ladder will help you a lot, unless you know how to take pictures through the fences. Try to be organized and bring food and water with you or you will waist approximatly 40 / 50 minutes. Most of times, you can park at the spotting location, however, if you leave you car unattended, do not leave any visible items Inside. In some cases, parking is not allowed but the authorities will close their eyes but keep it mind that you park at your own risk.
On the other hand, traffic is great, especially in the morning when American and Asian flights are coming in all together. It also offers a great diversity of spotting location that wil allow you to do pure aircraft spotting and airplane photography. As most of the biggest aiports in the world, it brings many special liveries. The airport is surrounded by lots of hotel that can be found here.
Keep in mind that you will never be able to get 100% of the traffic. At the best, you will see half of the traffic at the same time.
The only real time schedule can be found on the Paris Airport App (ADP). However, some information are released from time to time on this forum. (Go to last page for latest update if any.)
In case you need it, there is a medical center located at terminal 2F (arrival level) and a drug store at terminal 2E (departure level).
Written by Matthieu Douhaire (local spotter) and Julian Mittnacht. Last update July 2019.
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| Airport Information | |
| Runways | |
| 09L/27R | 2 700 m (8 858 ft) asphalt |
| 09R/27L | 4 200 m (13 780 ft) asphalt |
| 08L/26R | 2 700 m (8 858 ft) asphalt |
| 08R/26L | 4 215 m (12.467 ft) asphalt |
| Terminals | |
| Terminal 1 | Star Alliance, Qatar Airways, Vueling, Lot, Lufthansa, United, Malysian, Eva Air, Singapore Ailirnes,Norwegian, Turkish Airlines, Air China, Asiana Airlines etc… |
| Terminal 2 | Skyteam and Oneworld. Air France code share. KLM, Delta, China Airlines, Chinas Southern, Air India, BA, Easyjet, American Airlines, Cathay Pacific and so on. |
| Terminal 3 | Charters and Low Cost Carriers like Vueling |
| Spotting Information | |
| Ladder | On some important spots necessary (where it is mentioned). As a reminder, ladders are not accepted at CDG Airports, however, you will not get a fine for that. South of the airport is a castorama where you can buy a ladder for 20 EUR (marked on the map). |
| Car/Public Transport | Recommended as the distances are enourmous. It can mean up to 10km from one end of the airport to the other. Also a GPS is helpful as driving around the airport is everything else than easy! |
| Restrooms | Terminal1,2,3 and Aeroville Shopping center, Gas Stations and Fast Food Restaurants |
| Drinks/Food | Lots of restaurants and take away in Terminal1. Also between Terminal 2B and 2D and between 2A and 2C. A Total Gas Station, provides great Hot sandwiches and restrooms, is located on the motorway but there is also a back entrance next to spot#5. Aeroville Shopping center opens untill midnight. Paking is free for 5 hours. Car entrance is located here:48°59’21.31″N / 2°31’16.14″. Supermarkets: Auchan and Marks&Spencer opened untill 9pm. Mc Donalds, Costa, PAM, Starbucks, Namaste, Factory&Co, and Paul all open until midnight. |
| Hotels | Lots of hotels nearby the airport. Village of Roissy is a good choice as there are plenty of hotels and restaurants in all price ranges. |
| Season | We suggest April-September as this is the spring/summertime as some of the most intersting spotting locations are facing the sun during winter time. It can get quite cold during the winter |
| Security | A PHOTO PERMIT IS MANDATORY AT CHARLES DE GAULLE AND LE BOURGET!
You find all necessary information on the official website The authorization, valid for 3 years renewable, includes the following points:
DOCUMENTS TO PROVIDE:
All the documents MUST be sent by email and in french (recommended, use google translate) to the following address: Only Military Police, Police and Gendarmerie are allowed to check your photo permit. Keep it with you all the time. As a reminder, airlines private security are not allowed to control your photo permit or ask you to leave. They especially check the locations along the perimeter fence. There are a few points where you should be able to spot without a permit like #12 or #14 as they just too far from the airports boundaries. |
| Runway Usage | |
| General Info | There is not really a landing system at CDG and each flight can use every possible runway. ATC controllers are dealing with a large number of aircraft so it is difficult to say if a particular aircraft will land on the north or the south side. It is essential to bear in mind that you may will not be able to see the whole traffic as we never know where aircraft are landing or taking off. Some airlines prefer the runway closest to their terminal. For example AF, Flybe, HOP and U2 south (especially if 08 is active). Star Alliance like LH, SAS, Brussels but also Icleandair, Norwegian or FedEx prefers north. |
| 08L/26R | Always in use for landing from both directions. |
| 08R/26L | Always in use for take off from both directions and especially for those with a northern route and located at terminal 1. May be used for landing when traffic is quiet |
| 09R/27L | Always in use for take off from both directions and especially for those with a southern route. May be used for landing when traffic is quiet |
| 09L/27R | Always in use for landing from both directions. |
Concorde - Taxiway
| WHERE | The spot is just next to the Concorde and over the tunnel of the CDGVAL that connects the terminal. Get behind the newly constructed “House of the environment” next to the Hilton Hotel. You can stay at the brick wall (no ladder needed, see photo of Etihad 77W below), next to the Concorde or move a little bit down to the tunnel directly to the fence where you need a ladder. |
| WHAT | All traffic taxiing in and out on taxiway N and F. |
| TIME | From sunrise to 11/12am. Best when easterly runways are in use. |
| MISC. | Restrooms in the nearby hotels and snacks/drinks available at the Roissypole – Gare Station. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 50 to 300 mm |
Tunnel:
Brick wall (Concorde)
Parallele II - Taxiway
| WHERE | Opposite to the Hilton Hotel spot (spot#1). Park your car on the road side. Then walk 100m untill you are facing the taxiway.There is no signs or direction to help you so follow the below GPS coordinates. By foot/public exit at the RER train station and walk through the tunnel along the road to this spot.49° 0’26.96″N 2°33’3.39″E |
| WHAT | All traffic on taxiing in and out. |
| TIME | from 3PM till Sunset. Best when easterly runways are in use |
| MISC. | Ladder is necessary. Easy to park on the side of the road but Police may ask you to leave as it is forbinden. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 18mm to 300 mm |
Control Tower - Taxiway
| WHERE | This spot is alongside the road. You can park your car easily on the roadside once you have reached the control tower. See GPS coordinates for Parking.You can also park your car at the Pullman Hotel (but it has a cost) and then climb the hill and cross the road. By foot/public exit at the RER train station pass the Concorde and walk through the tunnel along the road to this spot.49° 0’38.46″N 2°32’44.88″E |
| WHAT | You can photograph different situations from here. Parked aircraft south of Terminal 1 and aircraft taxiing by on Alpha, November and Foxtrott. |
| TIME | Light conditions are good all day long depends on what you wanna photograph. From afternoon for the north/south taxiway November and Foxtrott. However traffic is intersting between 12 to 2 pm |
| MISC. | Ladder is not required, however, it may help in some cases. Spot is also useable without if your lens is narrow enough – for example the 18-55mm Kit lense fits. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 70 to 300 mm |
Terminal 1 - Parking stands
| WHERE | Park your car at terminal 1. Go to arrival level and get out wherever you want. At terminal 1 the arrival level is above the departures which is pretty uncommon. Walk around the terminal in order to get different aircraft. Can be reached by train (CDG VAL) from terminal 3 and train station at terminal 2). |
| WHAT | Here you can take some great photos at the bigger bulge directly opposite the taxiway over the bridge. You can also see the parking area of the French Air Force fleet. On the way all around it is rather difficult to take nice photos at all other places. To photograph the taxiway bridge get out at the rental car desk and walk left for 80-100 meters. |
| TIME | All day as it depends on the postion where you are. Night shots are possible too from here. |
| MISC. | For safety reasons, it is forbidden to stay on the outer side of the road, as there are lots of cars on that road. However, you can stay on the inner sidewalk. Police may ask you to leave if they see you on the other side of the road. Parking costs €15 for 2 hours and €12 for an hour an a half. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 100 to 400 mm |
VIP Corner - Parking stands
| WHERE | Not really far away from spot#6. But it will be faster to go there by car. You can park you car there at the below GPS coordinates. Walk toward the trees until you reach the fence. 49° 0’38.31″N 2°32’0.11″E |
| WHAT | VIPs aircraft (mostly Russians) if any |
| TIME | When possible. |
| MISC. | Do not stay there too long. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 18 to 300 mm |
Meteo - 09R Departures & Taxiway
| WHERE | On the western side of terminal 1, next to the Meteo france (weather station) there is a car parking where you can stay at. GPS 49° 0’54.28″N 2°32’6.94″E |
| WHAT | The spot is best for aircraft using the outer taxiway A to their sattelite gate of terminal 1. Furthermore you can photograph aircraft using taxiway Bravo, Mike or Delta for a 09R depature but #7 is better for that. |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are good from noon till sunset for the taxiway A . Lots of heat distortion during summer time |
| MISC. | Heat distortion during summer time. The fence is too high for a ladder but there is a crash gate to shot over. With a small diameter lens you can shot through the mesh of the fence. There are also some fire stairs at the Meteo building which you can use to photograph over the fence but spotters were requested to leave that place. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 10mm for the outer taxiway A. |
Virage Météo - taxiway for 09R Departure, 09/27 movements
| WHERE | One of the most popular spotting locations at CDG which is in a corner next ot the Meteo. Park your car at “La Météo” spotting location #6 and walk 2 minutes from there along the road direction to the runway. GPS 49.016172, 2.532839
+++ UPDATE JULY 2019: this location is back in business! You can still take pictures from there with a three step ladder as it was before the constructions. (see second pic below) +++ |
| WHAT | Best for aircraft taxiing on Bravo, Delta or Mike when 09R is in use and aircraft moving to the hangars or cargo passing by. Furthermore all 27 arrivals will exit next to you or 27L heavy departures rotate infront of you. Heat haze is an issue for all runway photos! |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. |
| MISC. | Heat distortion during summer. A ladder is highly recommended, but spot is also useable without if your lens is narrow enough – for example the 18-55mm Kit lense fits. Best when westerly runways are in use. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 18mm for aircraft taxiing. 300mm for heavies / 400mm for narrow bodies/td> |
Shots also possible through the fence if your lens is narrow enough – example lens here was the 18-55mm Kit lense:
Fire Brigade - 27L Departures & Taxiway
| WHERE | Park your car at the bus stop (it’s allowed on that particular one) and walk on the other side of the road until you reach the fence. See below GPS coordinates for exact location. 49° 0’57.12″N 2°31’45.87″E |
| WHAT | This place is good for all planes vacating the runway and taking off when 27L is in use. |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. Best when westerly runways are in use. |
| MISC. | There is nothing particular at this spot. Ladder needed and stay at least 3 meters away from the fence. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 200 to 500 mm |
Gendarmerie - 27L Departures
| WHERE | Park your car on the parking lot and walk 100m until you reach the little hill in the field. See below GPS coordinates for exact location. 49° 0’52.32″N 2°31’36.76″E |
| WHAT | Aircraft taking off when 27 L is in use |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. Best when westerly runways are in use. |
| MISC. | There is nothing else here, except aproximatly 50 security dogs barking wich can be annoying.No ladder needed |
| FOCAL LENGTH | from 300 mm / 400mm for narrow bodies |
Cargo Area - 26R Departures - End of afternoon (Spring/Summer only)
| WHERE | This spot is located in the CARGO 2 Area but is difficult to find. See below GPS coordinates for exact location. 49° 0’5.41″N 2°32’13.17″E |
| WHAT | This spot is good for all aircraft taking off on RWY 26R |
| TIME | From beginning of may to the end of August only from 6pm to 9pm. Only for aircraft taking off RWY 26R |
| MISC. | No ladder but you will be surrounded by trucks.(be careful!)Do not park in the UPS parking |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 300mm for heavies 400mm for narrow bodies |
Aéroville Shopping Center - 08R Arrivals - Morning and afternoon only (Spring/Summer only)
| WHERE | Follow the Aeroville Shopping Center direction or use the following GPS coordinates to find the exact location. Park between the trees. 48°59’43.11″N 2°31’38.72″E |
| WHAT | Aircraft landing on 08R only |
| TIME | From 6am to 9am and from 6pm to sunset. From beginning of may to the end of August only |
| MISC. | No ladder needed, nothing around |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 70mm to 400mm |
Dog Park - 09L Arrivals
| WHERE | To catch the northernmost runway is pretty tricky in CDG if 09 is active as the cargo and hangars of restrict any closer access. So you have to drive a little bit more westwards. From the Meteo spots just continue along the AF hangars and FedEx Cargo area. After a few minutes you see a tower and a dog park on your right. After that just turn right into a bumpy dirt road (be careful) and continue straight until the end of the road to a white barrier. Park your car infront of the barrier or before it along the road. Now pass the barrier and walk for a few meters on the dirt road till you find a nice view over a huge field to see the arrivals pretty clear. GPS 49°00’44.9″N 2°29’10.4″E
An alternative is along the D317 on the shoulder: 49°01’13.1″N 2°29’46.6″E. Can be access shortly before the spot mentioned above. But it is a long a busy road and you will get attention sooner or later. |
| WHAT | This spot is good for 09L arrivals only. |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. Even if the distance is pretty huge not much heat occurs as the planes are above a field. During noon there is more coming up but still okay. Heavies are no problem even on 30 degree plus but single aisle are more blurry. |
| MISC. | Nothing nearby. The road has many potholes so be careful. You might feel uncomfortable at this location as there are a lot of rubbish and some abandoned buildings. If you park at the barrier and walk for 50 meters you can still see your car and feel better. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | The planes are very very far! 500mm for a full frame A320 or 737 or 300mm for a 748. |
Field Road - 08R Arrivals
| WHERE | Located after La Poste building. Keep driving toward west direction. Park your car on the little path on the right and try to leave some space for the others. You can position yourself all along this area. Use the following GPS coordinates to find the exact location. 48°59’24.88″N 2°33’0.06″E |
| WHAT | Aircraft landing on 08R (when in use) especially in the morning as traffic is more interesting. The angle is not the best here so if you don´t like it move to #14. |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. |
| MISC. | Mainly Air France and easy jet during day time. No ladder needed |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 100-400 mm |
Cemetery - 08R arrivals
| WHERE | In the village of Tremblay-en-France is a cemetery at the northern corner. It can be accessed from the road which bring you to spots #15-19. You can either stay outside of the cemetery (if the gate is closed) or enter it and park on the official parking lot. There is a small mound infront of the parking where you can climb up to get a better angel. GPS 48°59’16.9″N 2°33’17.4″E |
| WHAT | Landing on 08R only. There are some powerlines that you may find disturbing but there are enough opportunities to shot between them. |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. |
| MISC. | Nothing nearby. Be respectful as you are next to a cemetery! |
| FOCAL LENGTH | A320 = 220mm; 77W = 120mm |
TGV Bridge - Departures 26R
| WHERE | UPDATE 2019: this spot is no longer available due to a second fence that has been installed. Move to #16 instead. |
| WHAT | |
| TIME | |
| MISC. | |
| FOCAL LENGTH | |
TGV Bridge - Arrivals 08R
| WHERE | Continue from spot 13 eastwards along the perimeter fence. After you have passed the TGV bridge turn left or right to park your car on the side of the road. There is a small grassy strip where you can stay. A ladder is mandatory becazse there are two fences now. For the one next to you you need the ladder to get over it. The second one is lowered and isn`t a problem. You can see that pretty good at the end of the video. |
| WHAT | Best for arrivals on RWY 08R and some on 26L. |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. Heat distortions during summer time! |
| MISC. | Ladder needed! Don´t block the bike path. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 70mm – 400 mm |
Concorde Memorial - Arrivals 08R / Arrival 26L
| WHERE | Continue on the Route Périphérique and drive till you reach the Concorde Memorial to park the car. Don´t park in front of the portal as it is an emergency entrance for the fire services! Cross the road and start spotting. No ladder needed as the runway is on an elevated position and clears the fence. |
| WHAT | Aircrafts landing on 26L and a few take off if aircraft are light enough to rotate in front of you from 08L(R). |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. |
| MISC. | There is a pond next to the position which can smell pretty bad during hot sommer days. . Maybe parts of aircraft cut off if the grass was not mowed. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 70mm to 400 mm |
Poplars - Departures 08L
| WHERE | Just continue from the previous locations eastwards, pass the next junction until you see a la-by to your right. |
| WHAT | Aircraft taking off RWY 08L (facing East) |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. Great for mid day departures on RWY 08L |
| MISC. | No ladder needed |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 200mm for a B773 and 400mm for an A320. |
Retention Pond - Departures 08L / Arrival 26L
| WHERE | From #18 continue eastwards for approximate 200-300 meters until the next lay-by. |
| WHAT | Best for landings on RWY 26L. 08L departures only for the slow climbing ones like A340 or A380. Better to use #18 for departures. |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. |
| MISC. | No ladder needed |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 200 mm to 400 mm |
Terminal 2G - Departures 08L
| WHERE | This spot is located far away from everything. Park your car at the parking (€15 for two hours) and the walk to the bus stop. Once you are there, walk in the field. The exact GPS coordinates of the spot are showed below. 49° 0’25.68″N 2°36’41.20″E |
| WHAT | Aircraft taking off 08L (facing East) and landing on RWY 26L |
| TIME | From 6pm from may to end of august only (traffic is quiet) |
| MISC. | No ladder needed. Best when Aircraft are taking off from RWY 08L |
| FOCAL LENGTH | At least 300mm, 400mm is more than welcome |
2G Control tower - Taxiway (Westerly)
| WHERE | This spot is located in the middle of nowhere. The exact GPS coordinates of the spot are showned below. It will offer you a different point of view. Can be accessed from a gate, north of terminal G and west of Parking PW. The road leads along the perimeter and tower. The portal at the entrance on the road may be closed during weekends and there is no other way at the moment to get in there. You do not have to walk. 49° 0’32.24″N 2°35’47.10 E |
| WHAT | Aircaft taxiing in front of you.Best when aircraft are taking off/ landing facing West |
| TIME | Light conditions are perfect from sunrise till 09:00 and at sunset if you are not only intersted by plane spotting. |
| MISC. | ladder needed |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 70 mm to 400 mm |
Terminal 2F Hill - Taxiway (Easterly)
| WHERE | This one is a bit complicated to find as it is hidden. Follow the Parking PX signs until you reach the Rue de New York. In order to avoid to pay for it, park your car on the grass in the street as marked on the map and walk eastwards till the fence (north). An other possibility is to cross the Rue de New York from the parking and pass the PX Parking. Then walk on the path between the two buildings and you will find anoher view (south). You can easily switch between the two marked positions. |
| WHAT | Taxiing aircraft on the bridge B/Q and taxiway E/G at the terminals. First two sample photos (AF 77W) were taken from the northern postion. The other from the southern point. |
| TIME | From April to september, not before 6pm.You can also do night shots from there |
| MISC. | No ladder needed as you on an elevated position. Do not leave any visible items in it and bring all your important belongings with you. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 70mm to 400 mm (depends on what you are photographing) |
Taxi hill - Departures 09R
| WHERE | Another spot located in the middle of nowhere. You will find the exact GPS coordinates below. Park on the grass and climb up the hill. From time to time, there is a “no entry” sign as they are constantly adding soil to the hill and taxis only will be allowed to drive in this area. Give it a try as it may be opened during the week. However, the “no entry” sign is removed during the weekends. 49° 0’54.80″N 2°34’6.75″E |
| WHAT | Aircaft taking off (facing east) and taking off on RWY 09R. It offers an interesting point of view as you are above the taxiway and high enough to avoid heat distortions |
| TIME | Light conditions are perfect from sunrise till 08:00 and 19:00 till sunset. |
| MISC. | No ladder needed |
| FOCAL LENGTH | 250 mm for heavies 400 mmm for narrow bodies |
Dégagement EST - Taxiway
| WHERE | Once again, another spot in the middle of nothing that will offer you great pictures opportunities. See below for exact GPS coordinates. Park on the roadside and try to leave space for the others. 49° 1’5.51″N 2°34’56.53″E |
| WHAT | Aircraft facing you while taxiing. Good in the morning as many heavies going to use it. |
| TIME | Light conditions are perfect from sunrise till 11am |
| MISC. | Ladder needed and only a few parking spaces available. Only when easterly runways are in use. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 70mm to 400mm |
Mesnil Amelot - Arrival 27L
| WHERE | This spot is located north east at the small village called Le Mesnil Amelot which is reachable from the N1104. The spot itself is along a road called D2212/Rue du Chateau d’Eau so find your prefered photo postion. Park your car on the side of the road. 49°01’18.1″N 2°35’13.1″E +++JAN 2020: Hard to use right now. There are roadworks preventing parking and there is not much room on the road shoulders anymore to find a place to stand safely.+++ |
| WHAT | Landings (facing east) when RWY 27 R is in use for landings. Fedex and all the airlines using Terminal 1 always use this runway.You will also see most of the charters using Terminal 3. Don´t hesitate to move around in order to get different angles. |
| TIME | Light conditions in the summer are perfect from 10:00 till 16:00 and all day long during winter time. |
| MISC. | There are plenty of restaurants and airport hotels in the village. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 100mm to 300 mm |
Round About - Arrival 27L, Departures 09R
| WHERE | This spot is located alongside the road. Even if parking spaces are not missing, the side of the road is not really car friendly and unfortunatly, this is where you will have to park. Use the small bank to stand above the runway. GPS coordinates below. 49° 1’43.47″N 2°33’34.80″E. |
| WHAT | Aircraft landings when 27R is in use and taking off when 09R is in use. |
| TIME | Spring Summer only. From sunrise during spring / summer to 8am.From 6pm during sring/summer to sunset |
| MISC. | Great for take off and landings |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 70mm to 400 mm |
North Approach - Arrival 27L
| WHERE | This spot is located alongside RWY 27R. Park on roadsides, before the trees. 49° 1’39.44″N 2°32’57.29″E |
| WHAT | Great for landings during summer when 27R is in use (Facing West) |
| TIME | Light conditions are perfect from 6PM to sunset during summer time (From may to end of August) |
| MISC. | Ladder needed and may be muddy sometime.Mind the trucks in your back.Great for landings on RWY 27R. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 70mm to 400 mm |
A1 Motorway bridge I - Arrival 09L and 27R, Departures 27L
| WHERE | This spot is located alongside the 09L/27R runway. Easy to park but difficult to find, however, you fill find the exact GPS coordinates below. Ignore the two “no entry” signs”. Climb the small bank in order to be above the runway. 49° 1’37.17″N 2°32’18.84″E |
| WHAT | Aircraft landings when 09L or 27R is in use and taking off when 27L is in use. Bigger aircraft may use the full lenght of the runway so don’t hesitate to walk a little bit to go on the bridge. |
| TIME | From 6AM during spring/summer to 9am. From 6pm during spring / summer to Sunset during winter time, if wheather is not on your side, you can give it a try as there will be no back light. |
| MISC. | No ladder needed |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 100mm to 400 mm |
A1 Motorway bridge II - Arrival 09L and 27R, Departures 27L
| WHERE | This spot is located alongside the 09L/27R runway. Easy to park but difficult to find. Ignore the “no entry” signs”. Same as spot #28 I but this time, you will have to walk a little bit more untill you reach the bridge. The bridge is a little bit higher and offers a best point of view when aircraft are landing facing East in the morning and taking off facing ouest in the evening (especially for heavies). On top of that, it’s also a great opportunity for you to take pictures standing above a motorway, however, try to stay on the good side of the bridge if you stand on a ladder … and mind the trucks in your back (ladder is not necessary but may help if the grass has not been cutted) 49° 1’37.17″N 2°32’18.84″E |
| WHAT | Long haul aircraft landing in the morning during spring/summer time when facing west. Aircraft landing on 27R and taking off 27L in the end of afternoon during spring/summer time when facin east. |
| TIME | Light conditions are perfect from 6pm to Sunset from may to end of august when aircraft are landig facing east in the morning (RWY 09L) andfacing ouest in the evening (RWY 27R) |
| MISC. | The footpath is narrow so mind the truck in your back. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 70mm to 400mm |
Raquette Nord - Arrivals 09L / Departures 27L
| WHERE | This spot is located on the north side of the road and is far away from everything. As they are doing road maintenance at the moment, I do not know if it will be possible to reach this spot in 2015. Once you are in a village called Epiais-lès-Louvre, turn left at the round about and then, follow the path until you reach a cul de sac. Walk through the fence and climb the little hill.Think twice before going there as it takes ages to reach this point as the road is not easy to ride. The exact GPS coordinates can be found below. 49° 1’41.93″N 2°31’12.27″E |
| WHAT | Aircraft taking off Rwy 27L or landing 09L |
| TIME | Light conditions are perfect from 6pm to Sunset from may to end of august. You can also go there in the moring if you wish so but the spot #25 is more interesting for morning arrivals |
| MISC. | No ladder, not for sport cars. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | From 200mm to 400 mm |
Servair Hill - Taxiway
| WHERE | Its located on a hill on the opposite of the Servair building, north of terminal 2. Park your car on the shoulder of the Rue de la Fossette and climb up the hill where you have a nice view over the fence on the bridge and taxiway. |
| WHAT | All movements on taxiway B and Q and movements in and out of apron Hotel. |
| TIME | From sunrise to 11/12am. |
| MISC. | Keep an eye on your car as the tend to tow them away. Nothing nearby but at least some shadow. |
| FOCAL LENGTH | A380 = 60mm; 763 = 200mm |
101 Comments
Hello everyone,
is it normal procedure for the permit to wait for 8 to 10 weeks ? do NOt want to take the risk to go CDG without the permit. But now more than 8 weeks waiting
Could you suggest first time how to spend a day at CDG ?
maybe some hours spot 11 and then some hours spot 7 ?
kind regards,
Douwe
I was at CDG 5 months ago without a permit at the spot #28 and there was military vehicles, police but they don’t control my ID piece or documents
Location 25 is not as easy anymore. There are roadworks preventing parking and there is not much room on the road shoulders anymore to find a place to stand safely.
For 27L landing shots in the (late) afternoon (or heavily clouded days) you can also go to Mauregard where there is a small park with parking spaces available. From there you have a clear sight on the landings. Airbus A320 takes like 150mm on APS-C camera.
Hi Anton!
Thanks, info added.
Can you please send some examples from the new spot thru to suport@spotterguide.net so we can add it?
-Severin
Hi all. Any info about parking for spot 1? Parking at the hotels is an option but can be costly enough. How about the huge parking behind Citizen M? Is it accesible or is it only for the car rental company?
Hi Julian, I am interested in Spot 4 for night shots but can you tell me if there are opening hours or it is open 24/24h? And… is it possible to put my tripod there and take some videos of the bridge taxiway? Thanks!
Open all the day long but go to the wall to put your tripod only to shoot for a few sec/minutes. Police can come and spray you out ! Stay in the terminal to wait.
I applied on October 21st. But they didn’t react.
So I sent the email again on November 28th.
As a result, a permit was obtained on December 20.
It took about 60 days to get this.
By the way, I applied from Japan.
Everyone comments were very helpful.
Thank you very much.
Great locations and info for photos , is there a spot which is good for seeing departures on all runways. We will be in a car and not taking pictures.We are tail number collectors
Hi guys, does any of you received the photo permit recently? I’ve sent the email and no reply from their part.
Any answer is welcome!
Thanks much!
Hi, I sent an email on July 22, no response yet…
Today a permit was in my email… It took nearly six weeks.
Hi Michael, I got my permit in the same day as you lol. Thanks!
I got it on the same day as well. 😂
My husband got it too in that same day. This makes 4 in the same day lol
Hey man, what documents exactly did you send? Was your email in English? Can you send a template for the email here please?
Hi, you need to send exactly the documents that listed above. The mail should be in french and google translate is good enough for that.
-Julian
This is the e-mail I sent early August: got a response by end of August. So French not really needed I guess…
To:
Service du préfet délégué pour la sécurité et la sûreté des plates-formes aéroportuaires
de Paris Charles de Gaulle et Paris Le Bourget
A l’attention du Commandant de police Xavier HUBY
1, rue de la Haye CS 10977- 95733 Roissy-Charles-De-Gaulle
Dear Mr HUBY,
I would like to apply for a new spotting permit for the airports of CDG and LBG.
The existing one is about to expire on Sept 2, 2019.
Attached I have sent you:
– Copy of my passport
– Picture of myself
– Current permit, valid until Sept 2, 2019
– My address: xxxxx
I think this is all the information you need from me.
If something is still missing, please let me know and I will send it to you as requested.
Thanks & regards,
Robert
Thanks for your help guys. Finally got the permit after 36 days.
First of all many thanks for the detailed guide and the related work.
I was in CDG from June 17th to 21st and hereby give a current feedback on the used positions:
It was started and landed both to the east and to the west.
Pos. 4, okay
Here you can take some great photos at the bigger bulge directly opposite the taxiway over the bridge. You can also see the parking area of the French Air Force fleet. On the way all around it is rather difficult to take nice photos at all other places.
Pos. 6, okay
It’s perfect on the stairs to the building because you’re nice in the shade. We were once checked by the police and sent away from the stairs. But the parking lot is free. After a while we just went up again.
Pos. 7
Here the second, higher fence was left, but the road was renewed and directly at the lane a second high fence was built this week. This position is no longer usable.
Pos. 8, okay
The police once checked and demanded that the ladders be about three meters from the fence.
Pos. 16
Here I suspect that the fence on the runway above was raised. Without a ladder it is no longer possible to take good photos. But the fence is still easy to see.
Pos. 17
Same as 16. It’s not possible without a ladder. The stench at this position is extremely unpleasant, so that we were only there for a short time.
Pos. 18, okay
pos. 20, okay
Pos. 28, okay
Hi, thanks for your feedback! Seems like you had some great days anyway.
#4: Text updated. Do you have some pics for us from the taxiway?
#6: we are aware of that location but don`t mention it because its private property and as you should know the police don´t like to see spotters there.
#7: Sad do hear. This was the best location at CDG!
#8: line added.
#16: updated
#17: sure about the ladder? The runway is much higher than the postion. Or is there a second one now?
Thanks again for your feedback!
-Julian
Hello !
Many thanks for all spotting guides on this website !
I’m a planespotter at Paris CDG and I wish to add a piece of information about the location 7.
From the end of February 2019 to the end of last week, there were heavy road works at this location. It’s still the case but the double fence has been removed since yesterday. So, except the road works, this position is now usable like it was before.
The end of the road works is expected in September but from now, we can take photos like before the works.
Enjoy planespotting in CDG,
Rémi
Hi to all,
In 2012 on a trip to Madrid, I had about 6 hours to spend on spotting. So I went to Terminal 2 and I stepped out, having in front of me the RWYs 26L & 26R. So I photographed both the taxiways and the departures without disturbing anyone. Was I lucky or is it visible until today?
Alex
Hey guys, it seems that obtaining the CDG Permit is not going to happen for me. Last year I sent my documents through DHL to the address stated in their website. After not receiving a permit I decided to send a request through email (in English) and this didn’t help either. About 40 days ago I sent another email in French by using Google Translate and this didn’t help either.
Do you have any other suggestions for me? I don’t know what to do next.
Give them a call: 01 74 37 77 16
Otherwise you can try it without the permit…
-Julian
Same for me. I did send the request once in 2012 without an answer. Since I‘ll be in Paris for the AirShow I send another Email on 27th May. Have not heared anything so far. Does calling them help? Taking photos without permit, you risk being fined, right? If I don‘t get the permit, I think I will go to Orly. As far as I know, you still do not need anything there.
Hi, Do you have any guides for Nice Côte d’Azur airport? Thanks much!
Hi Emmi!
We are currently working on a guide for Nice and spot-additions are welcomed as always, if you have some 😀
Regards, Severin
Interesting site here! Helped me find a couple of good spots for when I’ll be spotting near YYZ in two months while I’ll be in Toronto for the CUTA Trans-Expo (yes, I’m also a bus, subway and train fan).
I just have a simple question, thinking outside the box for a minute for CDG. Has any of you guys thought of setting up on the roof of the Aéroville shopping centre? I noticed on Google Maps that there’s a rooftop parking lot, without having ever been there, I have a feeling this might be a good spot for landings on 08R.
One other thing I want to know, when you have passed security in the airport and you’re waiting for your flight, can you walk around and photograph the planes through the windows? Here at Montréal-Trudeau (YUL) it is possible to do so and I also did it at Orlando International (MCO) while we were waiting for our return flight to YUL in July. Never got asked what I was doing except by my 10 year old daughter!!
Hi Martin,
don´t think the Aéroville Centre is a good choice as 08R is used for landings only (not 08L) and you will see just the belly of the arriving aircraft. Furthermore you will attract a bit of attention on the roof… For the terminal I know that you can photograph planes from terminal 2 E and F from the northernmost corner. But don´t know hot it is from the other concourses. Have a nice trip!
-Julian
I’ve created a CDG Spotting OV2 file for TomTom with most spotting places from this site.
Who can put it online on this site
Hi Arno, thats cool. Just send us the file to support@spotterguide.net and we will add it to the guide.
Thanks, Julian
Hi Julian, is the TomTom file here somewhere and I wasn’t able to find it? It would be very helpful… Thanks!
Hi Emmi, unfortunately we don’t offer such a file. But you can easily find the GPS coordinates on google maps.
-Julian
Hello,
one question for the permit. Unfortunately I can not open the site and do not speak french.
Is okay to write the email in English and attach all documents via EMail? Or do they need them by normal mail?
What do you mean with “1 legal format photograph for administrative documents“ is it a photo like for a passport or what?
I’m a bit confused to be honest 😮
Hi Stefan, it seems there is an issues with there website for a few weeks now.
Write it in french is better. Just use google translate. And yes a “pass photo” is mandatory.
Hope I was able to help you 🙂
-Julian
Perfect Julian 🙂
I found that letter from another site. Do you think that is the correct one? Maybe editing the adress of police?
And adding in the mail the rest of details like personal data
https://www.airportspotting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/CDGPermitletter.docx
Hi Stefan, I know about this letter but its not necessary to use it. Its important that you send the documents and just write that you need a permit. Should be fine…
Hi Julian, I wrote to the mail adress “spotters@interieur.gouv.fr” about 8 days ago. They never answered to me, is this normal? because I will be in paris on 15th of september and I want to take some pics at CDG. Is there any other possibility to go on touch with them?
Thank You so much!
Hi, this is the official email address. That is all I can say. But there are people who waited 1-2 months for their permit so this is some kind of “normal”.
https://www.prefecturedepolice.interieur.gouv.fr/Demarches/Professionnel/Transports/Aeroports-Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle-Paris-Orly-et-Paris-Le-Bourget/Spotters
Otherwise try it withouth one. I have never been checked…
-Julian
I just want to warn people about spot # 14. Don’t leave your car out of your sight because last weekend a friend and i went spotting there and someone smashed a window of the car and stole everything, all in about 5 minutes.
Hi, thats indeed a bad info! We had absolutely no problems when we stayed there for almost two mornings. Did you stayed at the parking lot of the cemetery or outside?
-Julian
Yes, the car was parked at the parking lot of the cemetery.
Update on the process of achieving the spotter permit has changed this year;
While according to locals, you will also need it for Orly (ORY) as well, the E-Mail address to write to has changed as well.
The old website with Mr Huby`s address is still operational unfortunately. The new E-Mail address is “spotters@interieur.gouv.fr” and you will receive your permit within the betold 30 days.
Unfortunately i can`t provide a new URL. There is one, but as the official website is putting out a lot of Errors, i am not able to provide just that.
Can anyone help?
I wrote in January a mail to mr. Xavier Huby to get an permit for taking pictures at Paris airports.
I still don’t have any reaction on my request.
Last week I mailed the webmaster of https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/ and I also didn’t got an answer.
Want to go this summer to Paris, how do I get a permission?
Maybe your mails went directly into the spam folder? You never know! Try the old way and send him a letter.
-Julian
Hey, I really want to get to spots 26-28 but I will not be with a car.. Is there any way to get close to that area by bus or metro and then walk a few KM in order to get to these locations?
Thanks for the help!
Unfortunately not :-/
Is taxi/uber from the airport an option?
I Have no idea
Bonjour , j’aimerai savoir jusqu’à quelle distance de l’aéroport , l’autorisation est demander , car moi j’ai été dans les coins de Thieux , et pas de problèmes pour faire des photos , je les voit en approche d’ atterrissage
Translation: where is the georgraohical limit for the photo permit.
I don’t really know to be honest we here the limit is.
The best thing to do in order to avoid issues, is to have your permit in your bag.
Je ne sais pas où se trouve la limite.
La meilleure chose à faire est d’avoir son autorisation dans le sac afin d’éviter tous problèmes.
they have ruined the parking on spot 26 today! roadbarriers have been put up on both sides of the road.
I’ll check that and will try to find an alternative parking option asap 🙂
Hey, I have a few questions about the permit card, Do I have to send this letter by post or can I just send it by Email? When accepted by Email how do I attached a picture in the mail? just scan it and send it together with the passport scan as an attachment? And I’m a Dutch citizens does it seriously take 1 month to get approved?
waiting for a soon reply
with kindness, Halil
Email the request. The photo you attach should be the standard size of a passport photo. Also of course a scan of your passport details page. I got my permit in about 3 weeks.
Hi guys,
Any suggestions for runway 26L arrival before 9am, in summer?
I appreciate due to the sun position, it is not recommended by 9am (back lit). However, there seem to be a lot of traffic arriving before 9am, so you would miss a lot of action.
Thanks in advance.
Cheers,
Hendra
Hi,
Firstly great guide, many thanks.
I have a simple question. About the focal length… What camera did you use? Full frame or aps-c? There’sa big difference.
Many thanks
Hi, all our focal length are fOr APS-C cameras. You can find it in the FAQs 🙂
Regards
Julian
despite all the terrorist stacks and treats do they still give u new permissions?
mine is expired and need a new one, where do i get a new one?
Hi Jan, they still deliver permissions.
In order to get a new one, send the letter to the following email address:
xavier.huby@seine-saint-denis.gouv.fr
Don’t know how long it takes before they send you the new one.
You will receive it back by email and you will have to print it out.
Does anyone have experience of CDG spotting without a car ? Many of the spots need a car but are there any where you can go by public transport then walk about 2km ?
Are the spots nearer the terminals easy to get to by foot ? I see that for spot 3 it says you can park at the Pullman. From there it looks like you would have to walk through the tunnels under the taxiways. Is this possible on foot ? Also can spot 4 be reached easily on foot from spot 3 ? Similarly can spot 5 be reached ?
There used to be a grass embankment on the corner of the ramp at T3 but I see it is not in the guide. Is it still there and can be reached ?
Any info or hints at all on CDG spots reachable without a car would be much appreciated so that I can go from place to place as quickly as possible.
Thanks
The spots 2 and 3 are all accessable by foot if you exit at the train station CDG3 between terminal 1 and 2 (see map icon). You can walk trough the tunnel.
Also spots 5-9 should be reachable by public as you can see bus stations on google maps. But we didn´t checked it.
Hi Ian, to be honest, CDG is not the easiest aiport for spotting without a car and walking on the roads is prohibited.
The grass embankment on the corner of the ramp at T3 doesnt exist any more.
Spot 4 can be reached from spot 3.
It probably takes around 15 minutes but you will have to walk on one of those forbiden roads and you will nedd a lader .. at your own risk … 😉
Same problem for spot 5 😉
You can reach spot number 6,7,8 and 9 by public transportation but I have no idea which bus you have to take. I’ll try to ask. However, keep in mind that Public Transportation aren’t really effiscient around the airport and that you will waist bags ot time 😉
The spots 6,7,8,9 should be reachable by bus 349. The 350 also goes there but not until the evening. I didn’t go to these spots. I went to spot 3 then walked along the grass verge and along by the road side for a very short time to T1. I missed shots of a LOT of stuff including the Air France heavies. It would be good to be there with someone who has a car but I do not drive.
Hello,
Great spotter guide! Does anyone know what the current situation at Spot 1 is? Is it in any way possible to make pictures there, or not anymore?
Kind regards,
Matthijs
Hi there. Construction works are still under way at the moment. Don’t know yet if it will be possible to go there again once the building will be completed 🙂
Update: this spotting point is definitely closed.
Hi there,
I am going to CDG for spotting in Aug 2019. Just want to confirm if Spot 1 is still closed? And what is the current situation for Spot 7?
The spot is available. Constructions are finished. Matthieus post is two years old 😉
For 7 we have no info that the fence has been removed.
-Julian
do need a permit for all the spots. I am taking a trian form amsterdam to pairs and spend 4 days.i plan on leving next week i guise it to late to get a permit
Yes you need a permit for all locations and yes its too late for it. If you get checked by security the asked you to leave.
-Julian
Have you herd what citizen M is like or do people still use the mound which is close to this hotel .looking to go next spting
Hi. Just curious as to why thee is no spotting guide for ORY.
Hi Chinaphong Kowong!
There is no guide of Orly Airport yet. We are operating at full stretch to get one for you as soon as possible. Our members have been there already so we will start writing one soon.
Are you in need of one very soon?
Have a lovely day
Marlin
HI thanks for the great guide! Will be doing a work experience in Paris for the next 3 months so this is definitely very useful! Should be able to contribute a bit afterwards and add how to get around without a car (should be fun and tricky as usual). I know you don’t have a guide for ORY, but I wanted to ask anyway: Do you need a permission for spotting there as well or is it only CDG and ORY?
Hi, the current permission is for CDG and LBG. In Orly you can spot without one!
Regards
Julian
Hi there, in what period of time we need to send the letter to the authorities? we need to wait for an answer before we can go there?
Hi Fabinho,
you have to request the permission up to one month before your trip. Carry it with you during your stay.
Regards
Julian
Julian. Hello. I’m Simon. Are you going to spot in LFPG 14.01.17? Is it possible to take a photo of my aircraft?
Hi Simon, I am not from Paris so I am not going for spotting there. Maybe someone other read your comment and will take your aircraft.
Can you watch them with binoculars without a permit if you don´t take fotos?
Do you plan to watch the planes from the perimeter fence? If yes its highly recommend to get a permit.
If you are just within or next to the terminals it should be okay to try it without a permit.
Regards
Julian
The permit doesn’t mention the use of binocualars.
However, as the the autorities are under pressure at the moment because of the attacks, they may consider you as a spy as a safety precaution if you don’t have a permit.
Don’t hesitate to request it, it’s totally free.
I will be there next week, but ceirtanly dont know exactly wich day i will be spotting, can i get an appoinmet to take photos with someone there?
Vraiment , un grand bravo pour ce site, je vois la somme de travail que cela représente , merci beaucoup
😉
Good morning,
there is another very good spot, but this one is a little tricky to get to. It only works for aircrafts approaching from the west.
Start at point 28 and walk across the first motorway bridge and head towards the second smaller bridge, which you have to cross too. Walk further on following the road towards the roundabout. About 50 metres further a little stretch of tarmac appears on the right. Use a ladder to get level with the runway. This spot is great for approaching aircrafts and to get different images. BUT this spot depends how early planes touch down. Just give it a try.
Kind regards
Markus
I’m just curious, looking at the Google map, it appears CDG is surrounded by a lot of open countryside. Is there anywhere further out on the arrival path where you can spot without having a police officer stopping you for a permit? If I was ever going to go to Paris specifically for spotting I would apply for said photo permit but just in case I’m ever transiting the area and didn’t have one, no parks or anything like that? (I am mindful of trying not to give spotters any bad reputation by the way).
Also, does the permit apply to Orly airport or just CDG?
Hi, I have no infos if there are spots where you don´t get controlled by the police. Sometimes you can spot for many days without beeing check, sometimes you get asked within a few hours. The permit is valid for CDG and LBG. AFAIK there is no need for a permit at ORY.
Julian
Hi, some spots aren’t controled.
As everybody can read this post, I won’t tell you where tey are 😉
Ask the permit, it’easy and free 😉
Wow, what an awesome resource you’ve created….thank you so much!
I will be in Paris during August and hoping to spot at CDG, Nice, etc. Are any of the spots around CDG easily accessible via public transport & walking?
Again, thanks….merci!
Hi, there are some locations between the terminals which are accessible by public transport. But at some you need a ladder. The spots outside the airports perimeter are just reachable by car. Check our map to see which spots are within walking distance to the terminal.
Regards
Julian
Hello Julian,
Thanks for this great guide! I visited CDG a couple of years ago but didn’t know all the spots. Thanks to your guide I now know some new spots which are great!
We used spot 28 in the morning (till 09:00), but we didn’t know any spot on the other side. Do you know if there is a spot on the south side of the northern runway?
Regards,
Ruud
Hi there,
Great guide, this is exactly what I was looking for. I’m due to visit Paris airports in June this year so this comes very handy.
A lot more spots (some very exclusive ones) then the average guide you find, with eye for detail but also with a clear eye for the enviroment (tips to make sure you stay out troubles and to keep ‘friends’ with the neighbours and the airport authority).
Very good work you’ve done and by the way some really great pics to show as well.
I’m not the best navigator at all but I’m confident that I’ll manage my way around the runways with this guide on my glareshield within handreach, should my CDG locals not be able to meet up.
Will keep you up to date should I notice changed situation in what is described here during my visit
Thanks & Greetings,
Yannick
Hi Yannick,
Thank you for your very kind words. Its a pleasure to help you out with all the necessary informations. Hope you have a nice trip!
Best regards
Julian
I can say that this airport is great to do some spotting though. i didnt write the letter or what so ever as it told me. But was in the hotel at Novotel hotel. and request for a plane seeing view room. So i got many planes photo but mainly it is the airfrance that you will see. 😉
Yes, totally agree with the other comments on the amount of valuable work you have contributed to the ‘spotter community’. Grateful thanks for not only the information on Paris but all the other places covered in the website. This is, in my opinion, the best aviation photographer site on the web for information. (My only comment would be to have a date for the information displayed). Well done and thank you.
Hello David,
thank you for your very kind words!
We usually post the date of our visit or when we made an update for the guide at the end of the introduction text.
Kind Regards
Julian
Thanks heaps Mathieu, incredible site. You must have spent hours bringing this marvel together. Wow. So many valuable informations. Great, I wish there were more people to share so unselfishly ! Good on you!
Have a great evening and many thanks again!
Hi Mathieu,
thanks for this unbelievably, exhaustive explained and detailed spotter guide!
The entire spotter community will be so grateful for this humongous spotting guide being studded with astonishing pictures!
Great work!