Tuesday 20 March 2018 was the big day. We parked just outside the main gate and boarded the coaches which were already waiting. Then we, unfortunately, had to wait some considerable time before we could go to the aircraft as some officials were expected to land. We were taken to the south-eastern side of the active runway. Aircraft were taking of to the south, so several were way to high to take a decent shot. Also, the sun was about the swing around the southern runway and the light was almost on the nose of the aircraft. Not the best situation, but several decent shots could be taken. The big wave of aircraft landed to the north, so touch down was right in front of us. Again, not the best time to be here, but with some little creativity good shots could be taken.
After the final aircraft of that wave landed we were taken to the control tower, situated on the west side of the runway. Here we waited for the second wave to hit the skies. And this was excellent! One could stand close to the taxiway but also, after some negotiating at two floors of the control tower. Aircraft were taxiing by at close distance and take offs were also within easy range of our lenses. Another massive wave of aircraft departed and this continued until it became dark. Everybody packed their camera bags with big smiles as the opportunities in the afternoon were beyond our expectation and the weather also had cooperated.
We left the base at 20.00hr and celebrated this great day in the restaurant we were yesterday. One of the group had turned 65 that week so we surprised him with a delicious cake and a song.
