Plane spotting is a hobby which you literally sit in a spot for long hours holding a camera and taking pictures of planes. In KLIA, there are a few good spotting locations. How to get to them? Firstly, search on google maps for a road named Jalan Pekeliling Klia Selangor. Easiest way in from the highway is to turn into KLIA 2 but not into terminal but to Tune Hotel. After passing the hotel a junction will be ahead and there you turn left, now you are on the road! This first is section is great for spotting at KLIA 2, from almost every angle. If you continue driving, you will end up in KLIA's section, the runway you see is 32L/14R. Depending on runway flow, you will want to choose a good spot where the fence is a little lowered so your photos would be fence free! Also, always have an umbrella with you as there is no shade at all unless you are planning to take shelter under a palm tree that is but if your car has sunroof, USE IT! Pop your head and camera out and start taking photos!
EQUIPMENT-
Here, a lens with at least 200mm zoom would be required as the distance between you and the runway is pretty far from all angles. Camera wise, DSLR would be recommended. I use my Canon 700D with a Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-f/6.3 and as a video and wide angle camera, I use the Canon G15. For video, a tall tripod and HD/4K Camcorder with high zoom capability is recommended. Spotters should use Flight Radar 24 app on their devices, it gives real time flight information which alerts us about what flights are flying in and out, it's worth the price! If you don't have internet data connection subscription, just head over to 7-Eleven and buy a pre-paid sim card with data. One last important equipment, WATER. Bring lots of water as it is very hot and the hours spent there without sufficient water would be unhealthy.
SKILL-
Nothing much to say here other than practice makes perfect! Look up on the internet for other people's shots of planes and get ideas and inspiration, be creative with your shots.
SAFETY & RULES-
Stay away from the fence. Don't throw anything into the airport or at planes. Do not litter. Do not use lasers. If security approaches you, listen and obey their orders. If you feel lost, do not venture on your own as you may accidentally enter restricted grounds. Do not use flares. Lastly, go over to Malaysia Airports social media sites and give them a follow!
Here are some of my shots:
