NI should follow plane spotter plan, says enthusiast
Northern Ireland's airports should introduce dedicated plane spotting areas, an enthusiast has told BBC News NI.
Earlier this week, Dublin Airport submitted an application to build a new viewing area for the public to watch take offs and landings.
Luke Wilson said he spends about 40 hours a week watching planes.
"When I found out that Dublin has applied for an application for a plane spotting facility I was delighted," he said.
Dublin's proposal on Old Airport Road would "provide a comfortable and safe space for the community to view aircraft movements", a statement outlined.
It will allow clear views of the south runway and the cross-wind runway.
The airport said it wanted to build an elevated covered platform with seating and car parking spaces.
Mr Wilson, who is 20 and from Newtownabbey, said: "If this was approved it would encourage me to travel to Dublin at least one day over the weekend.
"My hobby is my passion. I first started when I was only five or six going on family holidays.
"Then it would have been unusual but over the last few years I have seen the numbers grow."
There are no dedicated plane spotting areas at Northern Ireland airports, however, some informal positions are popular outside the boundaries.
Mr Wilson said it was hard to describe the joy he gets from plane spotting.
"It would actually surprise you how many people find it enjoyable," he explained.
"I am in a Facebook group where I post my photos from spotting and I will have thousands of people reacting, the satisfaction is unbelievable."
'Footfall for plane spotting'
Mr Wilson continued that he would like to see Belfast International Airport in particular follow Dublin's plan.
A note on Belfast International Airport's website states it had a viewing gallery which is now closed.
It had been "unique" in Northern Ireland, the website stated, in terms of having a land-side viewing area, while visitors could also listen in on air traffic control communications.
"I would love them to consider designating a café or car park for plane spotting," Mr Wilson said.
"This would attract more people. I know there would be the footfall for it.
Northern Ireland-born pilot James Rodgers told BBC News NI "very few" airports had plane spotting facilities, however, he felt Dublin Airport connected well with its passengers and social media followers.
"I know lots of young aviation enthusiasts that have been hosted by Dublin Airport for a day and were able to access the traffic control tower," he continued.
"They are the best airport in my opinion."
The airport's proposal was "brilliant", he added.
"I know it is an application but it's looking positive."
Gary McLean, managing director of Dublin Airport, said observation facilities are a feature of airports around the world.
"As well as providing a plane-spotting platform, the facilities also create an interface between the airport and the local community, helping aviation enthusiasts to engage with the airport by observing aircraft movements and airport operations.
"This location has been an informal 'plane spotting' area over the past 40 years and we think it's time to put a more formal facility in place."
BBC News NI contacted Northern Ireland's three main airports to ask if they had plans for public viewing areas.
Belfast International and City of Derry airports said they had no such plans, while Belfast City Airport said given its location there are "multiple opportunities for plane spotters to enjoy great views".
“Whilst we have no plans to develop a specific area at this time, we are always grateful for the suggestions and feedback received from the local community," a spokesperson added.
