Top 5 U.S. Airports for Plane Spotting: Best Views, Runways, and Locations

The 5 Best Airports in the U.S. for Plane Spotting: Where to Go and What to Watch

If you’re like me, there’s nothing better than watching an airplane come in to land, hearing the engines spool down, and seeing the landing gear touch the runway. Whether it’s a 737 coming in from a short hop or a massive A380 arriving from overseas, plane spotting never gets old. But not all airports are great for watching. Some have dedicated areas, while others require a little creativity to find the right spot.

If you’re looking for the best airports in the U.S. for spotting—ones with great views, lots of traffic, and interesting planes—here are my top five picks, with the best runways to watch and the best spots to see the action.

1. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – Runways 24L/24R

My personal favorite since it's my hometown. LAX is one of the best places in the country for plane spotting. You’ll see everything from domestic flights to international heavies like the A380 and 747. The Pacific Ocean and palm trees make for a solid backdrop, and there’s always something happening. Don't forget the park at In & Out off Sepulveda to have these birds fly right over your head with a mouthwatering burger in your hands.

Best Spot: Clutter’s Park (Imperial Hill) on the south side of the airport gives a clear view of runways 24L and 24R, where most international flights land. There are benches and parking, so it’s an easy spot to hang out for a while. The lighting is best in the afternoon, especially in winter.

2. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – Runways 28L/28R

SFO is a great place to catch parallel landings, with aircraft coming in over the bay. It’s also a busy international hub, so you’ll see a mix of domestic flights and long-haul international arrivals.

Best Spot: Bayfront Park, just south of the airport, has an open view of runways 28L and 28R. The best time to go is in the morning when the light is good and there’s a steady stream of arrivals. You’ll see everything from short-haul flights to 777s and A350s coming in from Asia and Europe.

3. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) – Runway 4R

Logan’s waterfront approach makes it a cool place to watch planes. If you’ve ever flown into BOS, you know the feeling of seeing nothing but water before the runway suddenly appears. That same effect makes it a great airport for spotting.

Best Spot: Constitution Beach is the best place to watch landings on Runway 4R. Planes come in low over the water before touching down, making for great photos and a good overall viewing experience. It’s an easy place to hang out for a while and has a clear, unobstructed view.

4. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – Runways 7L/7R

Phoenix might not have as much international traffic as LAX or SFO, but the desert backdrop and constant flow of Southwest Airlines jets make it a solid place to watch planes. The lighting conditions here are also great, especially at sunset.

Best Spot: The Terminal 4 Parking Garage (top level) is the best spot at PHX. You’ll get a clear view of runways 7L and 7R, with mountains in the background. It’s one of the few airports where you can get a good view without leaving airport property.

5. Miami International Airport (MIA) – Runway 9

Miami is one of the busiest international airports in the U.S., especially for flights to and from Latin America. You’ll see airlines that don’t fly anywhere else in the country, plus a good amount of cargo traffic.

Best Spot: El Dorado Furniture Parking Lot off NW 72nd Ave gives a great view of Runway 9. It’s a good morning spot, and since MIA sees a lot of cargo flights, you’ll catch some rare freighters along with the usual passenger planes.

Every plane spotter has their favorite airport, and these are just a few of the best ones out there. If you’re looking for variety, good scenery, and plenty of aircraft action, these five airports are a great place to start.

Got a favorite spotting location? Let me know—I’m always looking for new spots to check out!

- TBP