Planespotters – enthusiasts who wait at airports, cameras at the ready to photograph arriving and departing aircraft – form a large and diverse community in Luxembourg, spanning generations from the very young to the very experienced.
At Findel Airport, there are around six dedicated spots along the perimeter fence where planespotters can take pictures. However, for the past two years, lux-Airport has invited enthusiasts to a monthly gathering on the Skypark rooftop.
According to Alexander Flassak, CEO of lux-Airport, the idea was to allow spotters, who usually only see each other outside along the fence, to come together once a month in a more social setting for an afterwork get-together to exchange tips and experiences.
Flassak explains that the goal is to unite the broader airport community, not just passengers, airlines, or neighbours. He emphasises that it is important to provide a platform for those passionate about aviation and aircraft photography.
Regularly, guests from companies such as Luxair or Cargolux are invited to speak about their work and interact with the spotters, helping to foster a sense of community among all those interested in aviation.
At a recent meeting, around thirty spotters gathered on the Skypark roof, cameras in hand and eyes on the sky. Paul Link, a long-time Findel regular, has been photographing planes since 1986.
He describes the excitement as being about capturing as many planes as possible, not only at Findel but also at airports worldwide, with part of the appeal being the challenge of getting the aircraft in the best possible light.
Link’s dedication has led to a collection of about eighty thousand aircraft photos. His hobby has taken him to nearly five hundred different airports, and he points out that a high-quality camera is essential for achieving the best results.
On the Thursday RTL visited, Cargolux pilot Claude Zehren was among those on the rooftop. For pilots, being photographed by spotters is considered a source of pride.
Zehren admits he was surprised by just how many people in Luxembourg have taken up the hobby and finds it especially positive that the community includes all ages, from young to old, regardless of whether they are pilots or spotters.
Ultimately, both groups are united by their shared passion for aviation.
He also highlights the dedication of planespotters, who are willing to stand outside for hours in all kinds of weather to wait for the perfect shot.
Airlines appreciate seeing their aircraft captured in the best light, and it is not uncommon for pilots to wave to photographers from the cockpit or flash the aircraft lights as a friendly gesture.
Beyond the enjoyment and social connections, planespotters also play an extra role at the airport, acting as ever-watchful eyes on the ground.
For ninety minutes, the spotters stood on the Skypark roof, cameras at the ready, documenting the aircraft that crossed the Luxembourg sky.
