Madrid Barajas Airport - Spotting Guide

Madrid Barajas Airport – Spotting Guide

January 5, 2013 - last modified on April 24, 2025

With almost 57.9 Mio passengers in 2018, Madrid is the busiest airport in spain and one of the biggest in Europe. Its a known gateway from Europe to South America, and carriers like Avianca, LATAM Group, BoA and Aeromexico are regular visitors. Iberia and Air Europa as well as the low cost carriers Vueling, Ryanair and Easyjet are the big players in Barajas. Ibera has their complete long haul fleet based there.

Cubana operates the unique IL-96 for their scheduled flights from Havana to MAD. Spanish Charter airlines like Privilege, Wamos Air, Evelop and Plus Ultra have ther operational base in Madrid. The spanish Cargo operators Cygnus Air and Swiftair have their base in MAD too. Latter also operates flights for Air Europa.

Due to the wide areal of MAD and the distance between the south and north approach, spotting can become a bit tricky. There is no favorite wind direction and they can switch the landing direction more than once a day. It will take at least 20 minutes by car to get from one end of the airport to the other. Also a high focal length is needed as most spots are very far away. 100-400mm is highly recommend!

Written by Julian Mittnacht, Edu Atienza, Jeremy and Paul Denton, Jozsef Soos, Sergio Cambronero Villa, Marcus, Gerrit Griem, Dieter Müller, Maximilian Kramer, Julián Rodriguez. Last Change: April 2025 (Spot 5 updated)

Rating
Movements
Airline Variety
Photo Locations
Weather
Airport Information
Runways
14R/32L	4.100 m (13.451 ft)
14L/32R	3.500 m (11.482 ft)
18L/36R	3.500 m (11.482 ft)
18R/36L	4.349 m (14.268 ft)
Terminals
Terminal 1	Air Europa, Easyjet, Ryanair, mixed Intercontinental Flights (widebodies)
Terminal 2	Air Europa, Star Alliance
Terminal 3	Air Europa, Air France, KLM
Terminal 4	mainly Iberia/oneworld members, Vueling
Terminal 4 – Satellite	mainly Iberia/oneworld members, Intercontinental and non-schengen flights
Spotting Information
Ladder	Not needed at any of the locations.
Car/Public Transport	Is needed for most spots. Also a GPS is useful as the street system is not the easiest. Only the southern spots and Barajas spotting hill are accessable by public tranpsort or a hotel shuttle bus. To reach the northern spots is almost impossible without a car.
Restrooms	Not next to all locations, closest facilities are tagged on the map.
Drinks/Food	Not next to all locations, closest facilities are tagged on the map.
Hotels	Many Hotels are located along the motorway A-2 and usually they have a free shuttle bus from the terminals. Locations in the south are also within walking distance from these hotels.
Season	There is no special season but its very hot in the summer and heat haze can be a problem at some positions. But we recommend May till October because you can visit the morning locations too which is almost impossible in winter. Otherwise you will miss a lot of interesting traffic that arrives only during the morning!
Runway Usage
General Info	The airport is splitted between the eastern runways 18L/36R-14L/32R and the western runways 18R/36L-14R/32L. Usuallay all flights that cross the Atlantic (from America) arrive on the western runways as well as flights from Western Spain, Canary Islands, UK, Ireland and Maroc. The eastern runways are used by all other flights from Europe, Asia and Arabia.
14R/32L	Southern Winds = 14R for departures only Nothern Winds = 32L for arrivals only
14L/32R	Southern Winds = 14L for departures only Nothern Winds = 32R for arrivals only
18L/36R	Southern Winds = 18L for arrivals only Nothern Winds = 36R for departures only
18R/36L	Southern Winds = 18R for arrivals only Nothern Winds = 36L for departures only

Pedestrian bridge Autovía A2 - 32L Arrivals + Heavy 14R Departures

WHERE	If you stay in one of the hotels along the road (Auditorium, Holiday Inn, SHS Aeropuerto) you can easily walk to this positions within 10-15 minutes. There are two footbridges crossing the “Autovía A2” which can nicely be used for spotting. Either use the eastern one, which can be found between the Hotel Marriot and the Holiday Inn, or the western one which just crosses the Autovía in front of the Mariott hotel. Stay on the top of the bridge next to the airport because you are much higher than you will be on the sidewalk.

WHAT	You get all 32L arrivals here plus you can also spot heavy 14R departures from here nicely.

TIME	From late noon until sunset.

MISC.	You will find only few facilities inside the hotels like restrooms, but we didn’t find a supermarket nearby. If you get hungry, you should also go into the hotel. The autovía is pretty loud and disturbing and can produce lot of heat haze. The eastern bridge may be hard to reach with your car, but you can easily park next to the western one/next to the Mariott hotel.

FOCAL LENGTH	200-500mm depends on which bridge you use.

Western bridge:

Eastern bridge:

Seatingbench - 32L Arrivals

WHERE	Exit motorway A2 at exit 12 onto “Av. Sur del Aeropuerto de Barajas”/M22 Exiting the roundabbout at exit number one. Pass two more roundabouts and after Following the street for about 2 km, exit the roundabout at the 3rd exit (the one to the north), which is barricaded and on the other side is “Calle November”. Park the car on the dirt without blocking the street. Park next to spot 3 or 4. In the case the gates are closed, park in one of the roads at spot 1 (On weekends you can park directly at the barricades). Then walk down the dry path until you can see some benches on your left. This spot is rather the area again, depending on the angle you like most.

WHAT	You get arrivals on 32L only.

TIME	From late midday until sunset.

MISC.	Parking is very limited! There are just a few trees to get shade from, nothing else nearby! During almost all of the encounters with the police they didn’t care about us.

FOCAL LENGTH	70 – 300mm

Servair - 32L Arrivals

WHERE	It’s next to the catering company “Servair” on a mound just parallel to the runway. To get there by car you have to enter the airports cargo area from the M-14 or M-22. Pass all the cargo buildings on the main road (Ave. Central) and the Servair Building until you reached the last roundabout (the street ends here). Park at the roundabout and climb up the mound and walk along the path to reach the perimeter fence that you already see from the street. Keep in mind access from the south is only possible on weekdays. Otherwise use one of the two main entrances. (see map). Sometimes there is a security guard at the entrance of the cargo area. But don´t wonder just smile and pass through. If the gate is closed, especially on weekends, you can park in one of the roads at spot #1 and walk to the spots around here. By foot from the hotels at the A-2 to this position. You can walk on the blocked roads and don´t need to make the diversion to the official entrances.

WHAT	You get arrivals on 32L and some late 14R departures, so mainly heavies with background here (as you can see below in the examples). You can also see parts of the storage/parking area behind the runway.

TIME	From late noon until sunset.

MISC.	Nothing nearby but enough shade. Closest facilities are the hotels by foot. Its possible that you are requested to leave this place by the guardia civil or you don’t get into the cargo area then use the alternative spot #2.

FOCAL LENGTH	767 = 140mm; 738 = 200mm

Servair - 14R Departures

WHERE	See spot #3 how to get there. But don´t climb up the mound indeed follow the closed road a little bit southwards.

WHAT	All departures un RWY 14R as skyshots without background, but also arrivals onto runway 32L in a bit better angle in bigger distance due to the position.

TIME	From late noon until sunset.

MISC.	Nothing nearby but enough shade. Closest facilities are the hotels by foot. Heat haze is a problem here for arrivals! Its possible that you are requested to leave this place by the guardia civil or you don’t get into the cargo area. Then you can use the southern barricaded roundabout to stop for a short moment to hop off and on again (marked on the map) and then walk here by foot.

FOCAL LENGTH	A330 = 190mm; A319 = 300mm, A321 = 200mm

Ramp

WHERE	See spot #3 how to get there. But this time don´t drive until the end of the main cargo road. After you have passed a the ramp security check to your left and drive through two roundabouts, you can stop your car and park at one of the lots. You can already see the apron and the perimeter fence from the road. There is a path leading to the fence. ++April 2025 – Unfortunately the location is no longer accessible due to ongoing construction, most likely a new hangar will be built++

WHAT	You can photograph pretty different angles from here! Aircraft using the taxiway A6/A5 after landing and heading to an southern apron position or to Terminal 1´s southern A gates and parts of B. Or departures using the M5/M6 taxiway to head north. In addition one can also see parts of the cargo area and taxiways leading to/from it. There are many airlines passing by e.g. Wamos Air, Air Europa, Plus Ultra, United, Delta…Furthermore it use to be fine to walk along the perimeter fence and shot throw the fences.

TIME	~~Depends on what to photograph. Taxiway from sunrise till afternoon. Eastern cargo ramp from afternoon till sunset.~~

MISC.	~~Nothing nearby. Security passes by pretty often. No ladder recommend! Heat haze might be a big problem on “far shots” already in winter.~~ Its possible that you are requested to leave this place by the Guardia civil or you don’t get into the cargo area. Then you can use one of the southern barricaded roundabouts to stop for a short moment to hop off and on again and then walk here by foot.

FOCAL LENGTH	~~Depends on motive. Taxiway 747 = 60mm. Parked aircraft 50 – 200mm~~

Taken from the fence:

Terminal 2 Café Mahoe - 14R/32L Movements + Taxiway

WHERE	This spot is located on the public side, inside Terminal 2 on the second floor. Use the stairs in the middle of the terminal to the top. Turn left and you will see a small passageway with a café named Mahoe which offers a direct view on the apron throw the windows. Its not the best place as you are behind glass. But its okay if you don’t have much time to visit the other spots. If you are airside (after security) near gate D66 are a few single-glazed non-tinted windows, which could be a good alternative when flying out of Madrid. View is similar but with a bit more aircraft sometimes blocking part of the view.

WHAT	You will get the all movements on runway14R/32L at this place as well as some taxiway movements. The runway is in the distance so there will be a lot of heat distortion. Widebodies can be okay but its difficult for single aisle aircraft. There shouldn’t be any aircraft parked in front of you that can restrict your view.

TIME	Light is perfect from late noon until evening for 32L arrivals. The taxiway is a North/South direction so light starts to be good later at afternoon.

MISC.	Restrooms and restaurants are just next to you. TERMINAL MAP

FOCAL LENGTH	80-400mm

Landside:

Airside Gate D66:

Barajas Hill - Taxiway movements + 14R Line-Up

WHERE	By foot: If you arrive at Madrid Airport, use the Madrid Metro Line 8 to Barajas and exit here. Its a little bit difficult to get to the hill. Exit the station to the left and follow the Av. Logrono until you reach a restaurant on the left side. Than you have to cross the bridge. Hold on that side until you reach the roundabout. You can see infront of you the hill with a transmission tower on the top and a small footpath that leads to the spot. I wouldn’t cross the roundabout, as the cars a pretty fast. Just keep on walking and cross the two exit roads instead, until you reach the footpath (is tagged on the map). Climb up the hill to the tower and follow the footpath until it ends. There you are! If you arrive by car park at Barajas and use the same way as described above. Furthermore you an park at #8 and walk down the (steep) hill to the spot.

WHAT	Its good for taxiway pictures and you get all aircraft that are located in Terminal 1,2 & 3 and passing by for departure on 36L/R. Airlines which are located in the Terminal 4 (not the satellite!) and arrive on 32L will pass you as well. All arrivals on 18L/R heading to Terminal 1&2,3 will pass by too. Departures on 14R are possible but there can be much heat haze on the runway on hot summer days.

TIME	From late noon until sunset.

MISC.	You are in the middle of nowhere! Its pretty hot in the summer and no shade. Buy enough to drink in the supermarkets in Barajas! Heat haze is a big problem on the runway, not only on hot days. Be aware of high vegetation along the fence that interrupt the sight.

FOCAL LENGTH	50-300mm (heavies on the taxiways are pretty close)

Cementery - Taxiway movements + 14R Line-Up

WHERE	This is an alternative to the Barrajas Hill as its directly and easily accessable by car. Its situated at a dead end road, next to a cementery and some rental car companies. If you are coming from the city on the M-14, pass the terminal 1,2&3 facilities and after a small tunnel exit the road and follow signs to “service Zone”. At the next roundabout use the first exit to the cementery and turn right at the next crossing. Drive along this road until it ends and park at the roundabout. By foot you can even walk from Barajas as there is a foot bridge crossing the M-14. Should be the same distance if you walk from the metro to spot #7.

WHAT	Its similar to spot #7 but furthermore you a better view of the taxiways J/H that are connecting the Terminal 4 with the rest of the airport. Disadvantage is the bigger distance and the result is more heat haze in your pictures.

TIME	From late noon until sunset. Taxiway J/H almost the whole day. Recommend during winter only due to the heat distortion.

MISC.	Once again you are in the middle of nowhere! It’s pretty hot in the summer and no shade. Buy enough to drink in the supermarkets in Barajas! Be aware of high vegetation along the fence that interrupt the sight.

FOCAL LENGTH	150-400mm IB Express A320 = 200mm

The spot itsself looks like this:

The mentioned pedestrian bridge when coming from Barajas like this:

Bus stop - Taxiway movements + Parking spots

WHERE	This spot can be found close to the bus stop which is located just next to T4 paking “Bajo Coste”. Just get rid of your car somewhere here (on the way towards the cementery are plenty parking spaces along the roadside) and search your favourite position on the other side of “Carretera de Alcobendas a Barajas” – the main road running below the cementery as well. Quite easy to cross here and to reach the elevated area between this road and the fence. Parking is available next to the cemetery.

WHAT	Parking positions and taxiway infront of terminal 4 shorthaul.

TIME	Parking postions: From late morning till late afternoon. /// Taxiway: also useable in the late/early times of a day depending on the angle.

MISC.	Once again you are in the middle of nowhere! It’s pretty hot in the summer and only a bit shade. Buy enough to drink and bring here, no ladder needed (one is a b it elevated and can clear the fence)

FOCAL LENGTH	100-400mm A333 on parking position = 150mm

Purification Plant - 18R/L Arrivals + 36L Departures

WHERE	The spot is pretty far away from the terminals and it takes a long ride if coming from the south. Drive from the M-12 northwards and use the exit to the city of Alcobendas. Once there take the first exit at the roundabout (next to a BP station) and drive northwards. At the third roundabout take the first exit. Drive along the smaller road until you reach the purification plant. No its up to you if you park here or continue on a pretty bumpy dirt road. Access is forbidden for motorized vehicles apart from residents, so it is up to you if you continue by car or foot! Pass the bridge under the R-2 and turn left until you can see a big hill. Walk up the hill a few meter to get a better angle. Foot walk from the plant is approximate 5 minutes

WHAT	Best for arrivals on 18R. 18L is visible in the far distance, too – in the winter you are be able to photograph heavies with a 500mm lense. In the summer there is just too much heat. Its also nice for very heavy 36L departures.

TIME	From afternoon until sunset.

MISC.	No shade and nothing else at this spot. Everything you need is at a big shopping plaza which you have passed minutes before (tagged on the map).

FOCAL LENGTH	100-500mm 18R: 767 = 170mm / 734 = 250mm / 18L: 777 = ~500mm

Fenceside - 18r/L Arrivals

WHERE	Use the same direction as you used for the spot before. Just continue on the farm track parallel to the motorway. The conditions of the path are much better once you have drive under the bridge. Just the first part is very bumpy. Drive as long as you reach the marked spot on the map. Access is forbidden for motorized vehicles apart from residents, so it is up to you if you continue by car or foot!

WHAT	Best for 18L arrivals. Find your prefered position on the road for perfect angle and focal length. 18R arrivals should be possible if you drive back a few meters but we did not checked this.

TIME	From afternoon until sunset for 18L. 18R in the summer only from sunrise until noon. In the winter the sun is not really long on this side.

MISC.	No shade and nothing else at this spot. Everything you need is at the big shopping plaza which you have passed minutes before.

FOCAL LENGTH	737 = 300mm; 788 = 250mm

Roundabout - 18L Arrivals

WHERE	The position is located north of position 12 following the street M-111 to cross the highway M-50. Close to the followig roundabout on the left hand side is a sandy parking place close to the roundabout at the “Calle de Romeral” with space for a few cars. A car is recommended due to the distances to be travelled although a busstop (line 210) is located close to the location. You can walk further down the little way from the roundabout towards the appraoch line with the effect to decrease the quality of the angle to take the pictures.

WHAT	Photos can be taken of aircraft arriving to runway 18L.

TIME	In the summer only from sunrise until noon. In the winter the sun is not really long on this side.

MISC.	The is no infrastructure at the position, but fuel stations at a tapas bar are available a bit away from this area in the villages around here.

FOCAL LENGTH	260mm (A330-200) to 400mm (A320

Gravel Factory - 36R Departures

WHERE	The spot is on the opposite site of the terminals, next to a gravel factory. If you are come from the city/terminal 1,2&3 on the M-14 take the exit to Paracuellos after you have drove through the tunnel. Just follow the signs to Paracuellos, pass the Barjas Hill Spot, drive trough the tunnel below the airport and continue on the M-111 after the next roundabout. Always follow the road that runs parallel to the ruwnay for 5 minutes. Once you have left the city there is a gas station at the end to your left hand side. At the roundabout use the last exit into a gravel road and drive till the end and park there. The spot is on a field next to the entrance of the factory.

WHAT	Best for departures on 36R. You can hear the planes soon enough so you won´t miss them. 36L departures may possible too but you need at least 500mm for a heavy. There is not much heat distortion as this is a morning spot only.

TIME	In the summer only from sunrise until noon. In the winter the sun stays not really long on this side.

MISC.	No shade and nothing else at this spot. Toilets and snacks available at the gas station (tagged on the map). On weekdays trucks passing by to and from the factory, causing a lot of dust.

FOCAL LENGTH	738 = 250mm; 772 = 180mm

Calle Arce - 18L Arrivals + 36R Departures

WHERE	Located next to a nice villa and a field, this spot is quite easy to find as it is literally just up the hill once standing on the east-west part of the “Calle Arce” street. Take care when getting rid of your car due to the steepness, but then walk up left of the wall the hill in order to get a better view (way marked on map). You could also drive further on street C. de Valti, park there and go to the hills to the north. You need more time to get there, but you have more options for pictures (especially to avoid powerlines in the shot). You get pretty much same pictures, but parking is definitely easier.

WHAT	Arrivals onto runway 18L as well as 36R departures – mainly heavies as narrow bodies are far away and hazy.

TIME	From sunrise until early midday, however in the winter the sun is not really long on this side.

MISC.	Nothing around here. Keep a low profile and mind the traffic when parking your car roadside. Lots of insects around here! Heat haze is a huge problem on hot days due to the distance. Keep a low profile next to the fenced while stuffed with CCTV partly in order to avoid attention and inconviniences!

FOCAL LENGTH	350-500mm A332 = 390mm

Thanks to Edu Atienza, for providing following example pictures:

Roadside - 18L Arrivals + 36R Departures

WHERE	This spot can be found by the roadside of “Calle de las Higueras de Valtibanez” on the mountain which is east of the runway’s northern end next to the main road. The position is literally just by the roadside next to a nice villa with pool, which can be seen on Gmaps and is a good landmark. Just come here and stop your car by the roadside – the spot can be reached via many different ways and streets in this village.

WHAT	18L Arrivals and 36R departures – mainly heavies as narrow bodies are small and thereby probably hazy.

TIME	From sunrise until early midday, however in the winter the sun is not really long on this side.

MISC.	Nothing around here. Keep a low profile and mind the traffic when parking your car roadside. Heat haze is a huge problem on hot days due to the distance. Keep a low profile next to the fenced while stuffed with CCTV partly in order to avoid attention and inconviniences!

FOCAL LENGTH	350-550mm A332 = 415mm

Bunker mirador - 32R Arrivals + heavy 14L Departures

WHERE	This spot is located in/around/next to (whatever) the former Bunker, which is kind of a sight. Thereby, you may see others coming here and it is also not as hard to reach by car as other spots around here. Turn off “Camino del Puente” to the west just before entering the village of “Los Berrocales del Jarama” from the north. Turn onto the dirty and bumpy road there (marked on the map) and drive to this bunker, which is also known as “Mirador Paracuellos del Jarama”. We recommend to park the car a bit to the north by the roadside and walk there by foot as this road there is not permitted to be used by cars, because it is marked as “Via Pecuaria”. However you get here, in the end then just search your favourite position around/in the bunker.

WHAT	You get arrivals on 32R and haevy 14L departures, which departe late, from here.

TIME	In the summer only from sunrise until noon. In the winter the sun is not really long on this side.

MISC.	Absolutely nothing nearby! The road may be very bumpy and hard to use on wet days. Heat haze might be a problem on hot days! Shadow in the bunker available. Take care of the cliffs and rocks not to fall down! Also take care not to pass “Via Pecuaria” signs as it is actually forbidden to enter these roads and you may face fines then.

FOCAL LENGTH	200-500mm

Example pictures taken from here look like the ones below taken by EduAtienza and the spot itsself looks like THIS:

Mountain - 32R arrivals

WHERE	Exit from the motorway M-50 and drive into the town of Los Berrocales del Jarama. Take the second exit at the roundabout and then take the next left. Parking in the blind alley, on the edge of the road, in front of a barrier. The spot is approximate 500-600m from the parking place and you have to walk through the forrest on a dirt road.

WHAT	You get arrivals on 32R only.

TIME	In the summer only from sunrise until early noon. In the winter the sun stays not really long on this side approxiamte 1-2 hours.

MISC.	No shade and nothing else at this spot. Be aware of the gypsies and thieves who are supposed to live around here locals told us. So rather keep a low profile with your equipment.

FOCAL LENGTH	A330 = 300mm: 737 = 380mm

Fieldpath - 32R Arrivals

WHERE	Exit motorway A2 onto M115 which ends into Via de Servicio. Exit into Pje. las Castellanas and after 200m turn right into an unnamed road. Park on the roundabout south-west from the position, as the road is blocked, exit at the roundabout and walk onto the field. Once on the field choose your favourite position, this depends on the angle you like the most!

WHAT	You get arrivals on 32R only.

TIME	From morning till around midday.

MISC.	No shade and nothing else at this spot. The carrefour supermarket is just 1km away. The angle isn’t as good as at spot #17, but here you’ll have the planes infront of some clutter some spotters may find ugly. But the biggest advantage is that you can change spots to arrival 32L very quickly – just up to 3 minutes! Field is unatended at summer and medium size spiky plants grow there. Bring adecuate footwear for it. Rest of the year the field might be used for agriculture use so beware of soft terrain and possible people working there.

FOCAL LENGTH	70 – 300mm

Gravel Road - 32R Arrivals

WHERE	This location is an alternative to Spot #20 (better angle and closer), but completely different to access. If you are coming from the Avenida de Aragon follow the road eastwards and cross above the highway. Turn right towards the airport. Follow the road until you will see a manned gate with restricted access, however there is a gravel road to your right. Follow this along the small Jarama river by foot until the marked locations. There are two options with gaps in between the tree lines. Please leave the car at the start of the gravel road where the entry to the La Muñoza complex is located, this is an agricultural road and it’s forbidden for motor vehicles except for those that go to the mining area in between runways. It’s quite usual to find police or Guardia Civil patrolling this road, they’re friendly with spotters but if you’ve a car with you then you’ll leave with a 150 euro slip as a souvenir.

WHAT	You will get all arrivals on RWY 32R. The Qatar is was taken from the first point (19A), the other two from the second point (19B).

TIME	From afternoon until sunset.

MISC.	No shade and nothing else at this spot, however you are close to your car. The road is not so bumpy and you can drive at least with 30km/h. Be aware of the gypsies and thieves who are supposed to live around here locals told us. So rather keep a low profile with your equipment.

FOCAL LENGTH	Approx. 220mm for a B738.

Closed Road - 32L/R Arrivals

WHERE	Use the same direction as descriped in Spot #21. Park your car in the east corner of the carrefour, next to the Burger King. There is a fence to prevent you from reach the closed/unfinished road but there is a huge gap exactly in the north/east corner of the areal. From the first roundabout you can photograph arrivals on 32L (better angel then spot 21) or continue to the next roundabout for 32R arrivals in the afternoon.

WHAT	You get arrivals on 32L/R only.

TIME	32L arrvials: in the summer only from sunrise until noon. In the winter the sun is not really long on this side. 32R arrivals: from afternoon until sunset.

MISC.	No shade and nothing else at this spot. The carrefour supermarket is just next to you with free WiFi, restrooms and a Burger King. Be aware of the gypsies and thieves who are supposed to live around here locals told us. So rather keep a low profile with your equipment. Beware of the sewer ducts missing their covers. Could be a nasty fall.

FOCAL LENGTH	A330 = 300mm: 737 = 380mm

Runway 32L arrivals:

Runway 32R arrivals:

Carrefour - 32L Arrivals

WHERE	The spot is located on the parking of the Carrefour supermarket, choose your favourite position on here. It’s an alternative to spot #22 as you have a better angle and easier access. The disadvantage is the higher focal length. The access to this market is only from the A-2 heading to Madrid or Saragossa so be sure you get on this road.

WHAT	You get arrivals on 32L. There are some huge power lines along the access road but the aircraft are above those.

TIME	In the summer only from sunrise until noon. In the winter the sun is not really long on this side.

MISC.	The carrefour supermarket is just next to you with free WiFi, restrooms and a Burger King.

FOCAL LENGTH	100-400mm 747 = 250mm, A346 = 190mm, A320 = 350mm

32L morning:

Purification Plant - 32L Arrivals

WHERE	This is an alternative to spot #21 as you are closer to the action. Disadvantage is the bad access and angle. From the Holiday Inn Hotel, take the road Calle Lola Flores, turn on the roundabout on the left, continue strait to the next one, turn on the right then directly on the right and before the highway start take the road on your right. Follow this road until the end you’ll take on the right to be on Acceso Diecinueve, continue strait then exit, to Av. Barcelona, take the road on the left Av. Aragon (the road cross the highway above. The road becomes pretty bumpy at one point so it is better to park there and walk all the way until the hill, next to the purification plant.

WHAT	Arrivals rwy 32L.

TIME	In the summer only from sunrise until noon. In the winter the sun stays not really long on this side approxiamte 1-2 hours..

MISC.	There is nothing close to this spot. So bring what you need with you. No ladder needed as you are on a hill. As of September 2024 there are some construction works going on here, so be aware of big trucks driving in/around here. Park clear of the road and take care!

FOCAL LENGTH	150-300mm

Field - 36L Bankings

WHERE	This spot is located a bit away from the airport to the northwest just somewhere on a field. In order to get here, leave the A1/E5 at exit 19 called “San Sebastián – De los Reyes” and leave the big roundabout into eastern direction as you’d go to the Repsol gas station. But then, before reaching the gas station, leave the roundabout directly next/north of it to the east again and just afterwards take the middle road of the three bumby roads at the W-junction. Follow this road for a while and once you’d pass the end of a green area/fence on your right and the road gets wider for a small part, park your car here rather as you’d just block the road with it if you continue by car. Continue by foot a bit on this path and you’ll arrive at this spotarea (whole way is marked on the map), where you can search your favourite position around here as this spot is no exact position…

WHAT	Heavy departures taking off from runway 36L and then bank to the west as they head towards America for example.

TIME	All year from afternoon till sunset.

MISC.	There is nothing close to this spot except the gas statoin to the west. So bring what you need with you here. Take care where you park your car, so you don’t block the street. Heat haze and similar stuff affecting the air’s clearness and quality are a very big issue in summer, so this spot is better to be used in winter.

FOCAL LENGTH	400-600mm

Thanks to Edu Atienza, for providing following example pictures:

Arroyo de las Zorreras - 18R Arrivals + 36L Departures

WHERE	This spot is literally in the middle of a field west of MAD’s northwestern runway. Park your car at the restaurant “Restaurante el Estudiante” (marked on the map) a bit west along “Calle del Alto” and then start walking onto the field towards the airport fence in the east. This way takes roughly 20 Minutes as it is 1km long. UPDATE September 2023: There are reports of ongoing construction works in this area and the entrance to the trail is blocked.

WHAT	Here you can only see aircraft arriving runway 18R plus the ones leaving via 36L.

TIME	All year in the afternoon till sunset.

MISC.	Heat haze and similar stuff affecting the air’s clearness and quality are a very big issue in summer, so this spot is better to be used in winter. Plus you are far away from anything here. Bring enough water, maybe something to create shadow and be very careful with the animals and wildlife while coming here by foot!

FOCAL LENGTH	100-400mm A333 touchdown = 220mm / A332 front = 315mm

Thanks to Edu Atienza, for providing following example pictures:

Arryo de Vaidebebas - 36L departures and 18R arrivals

WHERE	The location is similiar to the previous spot but just further south and perfect to photograph the 36L departures. To get there head for Parking Larga Estancia T4 with your car and then park your car by the roadside on the dirt a bit northeast of the huge parking complex in an unnamed street next to a company property. Continue by foot and use the bridge to the left cross the creek or go down straight to the creek and jump over it (it is not the biggest one). Find your way along the creek on the small foot path as marked on the map to reach the location, close to the airport perimeter fence. The spot is elevated so you can easily photograph over the fence. The journey from the parking takes approximate 30 minutes!

WHAT	Departures on 36L and arrivals on 18R.

TIME	All year in the afternoon till sunset. Be aware of the heat haze at this point!

MISC.	There is absolutley nothing around except some trees and bushes. Be prepared with food and enough water! The place that isn’t supposed to be accessed by the general public so a low profile should be advised. Before crossing the abandoned bridge there is a sign stating that you shouldn’t go beyond

FOCAL LENGTH	Fedex = 185mm; TAP = 290mm

Parking Larga Estancia T4 - T4 Apron

WHERE	This spot can be found on the backside of T4, head for Parking Larga Estancia T4 with your car and then park your car by the roadside on the dirt a bit northeast of the huge parking complex in an unnamed street next to a company property. Then walk back to the fence along the T4 apron a bit southeast and search your favourite position along the fence on the field there.

WHAT	From here you can only spot movements and some parked aircraft on the northeastern apron “on the backside” of Terminal T4.

TIME	All year in the afternoon till sunset.

MISC.	There is nothing around here. Take care not to block the road when you park your car. Haze produced by other APUs may be an issue here, but the distance is normally okay.

FOCAL LENGTH	18-300mm A319 turning on the apron = 150mm

Thanks to Edu Atienza, for providing following example pictures:

Observation Terrace - Taxiway

WHERE	The official observation terrace, available to fans of aeronautical photography, is located on the Iberia Ring Road, next to the security control of the Alamán school. It is a very good alternative to the well known “Barajas Hills” as there are no disturbing objects in front of you. Five parking spaces have been set up and reserved at the lot as marked on the map exclusive for visitors of the terrace. The spot can be reached by public transport and a short walk from the Barajas Metro Station (Line 8).

WHAT	Its good for taxiway pictures and you get all aircraft that are located in Terminal 1,2 & 3 passing by for departure on 36L/R. Furthermore all arriving aircraft vacating 32L through the last exit as well as heading to the main terminal 4 (not the satellite). All arrivals on 18L/R heading to Terminal 1&2,3 will pass by too. Departures on 14R are possible but there is much heat haze on the runway on hot summer days. A small ladder is needed if you would like to avoid barbed wire / fence in the bottom of the picture for aircraft on the first taxiway, in the second taxiway the fence isn’t really a problem and you’ve more options for different angles.

TIME	All year in the afternoon till sunset.

MISC.	Those interested in accessing this vantage point for spotters must be previously accredited by going to the accreditation booth (valid passport needed!), located before the security control. No one can be inside the enclosure who does not have an access card. The interested party will be identified and given a card (one per person) that will be necessary to enter and exit. of the enclosure. It is essential to follow the instructions of the security personnel at all times. When leaving, the same process will be repeated. The card must be returned to the accreditation booth where it was delivered. If any incident or anomaly is detected, it is necessary to inform the security personnel of that control. The opening hours of this new space are from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. between early May and September 15 and from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. the rest of the year. They’ve installed 2 picnic tables and it’s forbidden to stand in them There is a wood and metal stand with 3 step for spotters so ladder is not necessary. There is a training area for ramp workers e.g. learning to drive baggage loaders between the area and the taxiways, which sometimes can get in your photographs, but this is only a minor point. Please visit the AENAS Website for more infos

FOCAL LENGTH	You are very close and a range from 20-100 should be enough

Hill - 32R arrivals and 14L departures

WHERE	This spot is similar to the one called “Bunker Mirador”, but it is closer to the runway and perpendicular to where the planes touchdown. While walking the trail you will find a gap in the trees where you have the visual to the runway, where the electricity pole is right behind you when looking at the runway. You can park on top of the trail “Camino de los Valles”. There is a big gap so you don’t get in the way of other traffic and start the journey from there. It shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes as it is downhill (longer going back up). The trail is drivable but because of the agricultural nature of the surroundings we wouldn’t recommend unless going in a 4×4 as the tractors leave deep tyre trails behind them.

WHAT	You get arrivals from 32R and takeoffs from 14L. Occasionally you can also see heavy landings from 32L as they cross past another gap in the trees

TIME	In the summer only from sunrise until early noon. In the winter the sun stays not really long on this side approxiamte 1-2 hours.

MISC.	Nothing close by, road is bumpy and hard to use in wet days. No place to hide from the sun so wear adecuate protection. No place to sit either

FOCAL LENGTH	200-300mm

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Alexander Lebedev

1 month ago

For information regarding the ‘Observation Deck’(#27).
As of April 2025 the M12 taxiway (the nearest one) is under reconstruction. So, firstly, a slightly longer focal length is required (about 80-200 mm), and secondly, there is now a lot of construction vehicles in the picture.
However, the location is still absolutely beautiful for spotting in Barajas.

Last edited 1 month ago by Alexander Lebedev

Patrick Weis

Editor

Reply to Alexander Lebedev

28 days ago

Hi Alexander,

thank you for the update. That is hopefully only a temporary one.

Best Regards,
Patrick

skylinepigeon

1 month ago

I used Spot 27 last week, and found it to be great for viewing. There were few other people there, perhaps due to the cool & rainy weather, and for several hours I had the place to myself!

In the description, to say that the “security personnel will accompany” is no longer the case. After obtaining the pass from the Caseta de Acreditaciones you walk by yourself using the marked path to the right hand side of the vehicle access points. A security person in the nearest vehicle checkpoint will see you and come over to open the gate to the enclosure. The same happens when you wish to leave, as the gate must be unlocked again.

The airport was on southerly operations throughout my visit (i.e. landing on 18L/R, departing on 14L/R) and I believe all movements will be seen. There is a training area for ramp workers e.g. learning to drive baggage loaders between the area and the taxiways, which sometimes can get in your photographs, but this is only a minor point.

Julian Mittnacht

Admin

Reply to skylinepigeon

1 month ago

I have updated the guide, thanks for the hints.
-Julian

Joao Santos

8 months ago

Can I use my Sigma 50-500 whit D750 on this spot.
Thanks

Marco

9 months ago

I have a question about spot nr. 27. Is it possible to get closer? The distance looks too high from the position listed in the guide.
Moreover, must be a way to cross the Jarama. Several cyclists have been using the path that runs along the 18L/36R. I`ve been there once by car but I guess if forbidden as it is and agricultural area and a park-protected zone. There is a legal way to get in a position to shoot aircraft landing on 18L (that happen quite often)?
Consider renting a bike. The issue is from where to cross the Jarama.

Julian Mittnacht

Admin

Reply to Marco

9 months ago

I think you are talking about spot 17 and not spot 27. The marker on the guide is correct, you can`t get closer, otherwise you will fall down the hill 😀
The problem with the path along this runway is that its lowered and you can`t photograph the arrivals with having the fence in your pics. https://maps.app.goo.gl/qfJXDjjhc2SVnYQE9
Of course you can drive up there but its forbidden. So its up to you.
-Julian

Julian Rodriguez

Reply to Marco

9 months ago

There’s no bridge that crosses the Jarama anymore as last year a dam in the area that served as footbridge was removed so you can either enter that path via spot 11 or next to the M-115 tunnels that cross the airport.

Jova Gonzales

1 year ago

Buenas, pronto estaré viajando a MAD en junio la primera semana ¿Alguien sabrá de un lugar para tomas nocturnas? De antemano muchas gracias por sus respuestas.

brandon Cross

1 year ago

Good afternoon! ill be going to MAD this summer and i would like to know where the access for the observation ramp is. Inside the airport? “passed security control’ where is the accredidation within the airport?

Julian Mittnacht

Admin

Reply to brandon Cross

1 year ago

Please read through spot 27 in the guide above.
-Julian

Nicolas

1 year ago

Hellow,
I visited aena’s Web site to get more info about spot 27. I wanted to know if I must have an ID, a valid passeport and the “NIE” as written on the Web site or only one of these 3 documents.
Thanks👍