Dublin Airport hints at introduction of new facilities for plane-spotting

By Simon Kelly

Her

A mock-up was provided of the facility.

Dublin Airport have announced that they are “exploring potential options” around a beloved area next to the airport, specifically aimed at plane-spotters.

Taking to X / Twitter, the airport provided a mock up image of what the facility could potentially look like, saying: “Dublin Airport is currently exploring potential options to improve viewing options for plane spotters around the airport. Here’s one mock-up of what such a facility could look like. Would you use it?”

The mock up shows what looks like a small building, which may possibly be set aside for a small café or refreshments area, as well as picnic benches off the roadside.

Dublin Airport is currently exploring potential options to improve viewing options for plane spotters around the airport. Here's one mock-up of what such a facility could look like. Would you use it?✈️ pic.twitter.com/RGqmbCB7Yc
— Dublin Airport (@DublinAirport) November 22, 2023

Dublin Airport exploring options for plane-spotting area

The airport’s mock up for their potential new plane-spotting facility has gone down very well amongst the general public.

In reply to their tweet, one user said: “Absolutely would bring the kids here for a few hours on a Sunday afternoon.”

Another said: “Yes please! We visit the mound regularly (from Cork!). But it is very dangerous to clamber down from back onto the road as the cars, trucks & buses zoom past. If someone lost their footing & stumbled, there would be a serious accident. It would be super to have a safer area.”

The current spot for viewing flights coming in and out of the airport is on the R108, which is close to the southern end of runway 10/28. It features a small shoulder off the road for cars to park, as well as a dirt mound for those looking for a better view.

Others took to social media to make suggestions for how to improve the facility, with some going slightly overboard.

One user said: “Need to put some creature comforts in there like free Wi-Fi, a decent cafe, arrival/ departure screens, wind break/ sun screens, comfortable seating, toilets, free parking up to 4 hours, return prohibited within 12 hours, elevated viewing above the passing vehicles, for starters”, to which Dublin Airport replied, “Don’t forget the spa treatments.”