Aircraft Viewing Area — Attraction in Melbourne

This is going to show my age but here goes...

For nearly a half a century I have dreamed to become a commercial pilot, unfortunately due to an number of financial and other issues, I wasn't able to fulfil that dream however I have a GLW that worked for Qantas and I still got to kick the tyres of an A380.

Also I am an avid plane spotter and for over a quarter of a century I have came to this very spot and watch the planes come down and land. I saw the final Ansett flight landing here in Melbourne from Sydney. From the other side of the Runway I saw the A380 prototype and the Nancy Bird-Walton first touched the tarmac so this place has plenty of memories.

I got my first taste of the area in the late eighties where I was coming home from Sunbury and when passed the area in the middle of the rain and dark completely inexperienced as a driver this roaring sound of a large plane came across me. I held my nerve and drove on but at the same time I was totally filled with adrenalin for me to return back.

Towards a couple of decades ago, the only way to know more about the planes were to listen to the airport frequencies of the tower, ground and the airplane through a portable scanner. You knew which was coming within a few minutes and back then quite often I was alone in the car park watching or just a few cars whom were notable plane spotters.

Today it has a take away coffee, ice cream and kebab van which certainly help when you have that hungry feeling and cannot leave the place because there are so many people now parking there and the biggest problem is that there are no toilets available.

My theory for the massive increase of patronage is that the airport has the monopoly of the parking and even for short term it is so expensive and parking is an absolute mess so people are now parking there to avoid the costs and still be close enough to pick up these people.

While a great place to watch planes go overhead of you , it appears to have become a Frankenstein's monster and some maintenance in the area would help so unfortunately a three star has...

I had an absolutely stunning experience at the Melbourne Aircraft View Point during the evening. The view was nothing short of breathtaking, with the aircraft taking off and landing against the backdrop of the setting sun. Sharing this moment with my wife made it even more special. The sight was truly spectacular, and we were captivated by the charm of the scene. The added bonus of a food court allowed us to indulge in delicious evening treats and ice cream while enjoying the sights. The comfortable seating area provided the perfect spot to relax and immerse ourselves in the world of aviation. A must-visit for anyone looking to witness the beauty of aircraft and enjoy a memorable evening with...

If your a plane spotter or have kids who would like to see planes taking off or landing from close up, this is one of the easiest, most accessible spots for Melbourne Airport. Dirt parking which can be a bit muddy in rainy weather. Plane spotting is weather dependant, which way the wind is blowing can mean you are watching planes landing, or taking off. It's very close to the highway, and unfenced, so beware with kids or pets. This is a very popular spot and the carpark can be very full. There is generally a food Van here so refreshments and even hot meals can also be available. Bins and metal seating benches are available. NO toilets or other...