Plane Spotting in Phuket
Plane spotting at Phuket Airport has become one of the island’s most popular free activities. The runway sits right next to Mai Khao Beach and Nai Yang Beach on Phuket’s northwest coast, which means planes fly incredibly low over the beach on approach.
The most popular spot is at the southern end of the runway near Mai Khao Beach, where aircraft pass just 20 to 30 metres overhead. The noise and the size of the planes at that distance make it an exciting experience, especially for children. A few small restaurants and cafes have set up nearby, catering to the growing number of visitors who come specifically to watch.
The best time for photos depends on the wind direction, which determines whether planes land from the north or south. During the northeast monsoon season (November to April), planes usually approach from the south, putting Mai Khao Beach directly under the flight path.
The area gets busy around sunset, when the combination of planes, beach, and golden light makes for dramatic photos. For more about the area, see Mai Khao Beach and Phuket Airport.
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