Germany Trip: Hamburg-Finkenwerder
The first stop on our epic aviation photo trip to Germany was Hamburg-Finkenwerder (EDHI). On route to the hotel in Hamburg, it was a chance to get photographs of Airbus’ unique fleet of transport jets and too good to pass up. We set off early from Amsterdam for the 5-hour drive, aiming to arrive at our destination ahead of any flying activity.
The Airbus A300-608ST Beluga and A330-743L Beluga XL are impressive to watch. We were fortunate that several of the fleet flew to and from EDHI throughout our time there. Being our first visit to this airport, we relied on the information from Spotter Guide to find the best vantage points. The official viewing platform (spot 1) is quite nice, with an unobstructed view of the runway, benches to sit while you wait, and plenty of convenient parking. The spot is also next to the Airbus delivery centre, so there’s always a chance to see new (or even partially-built) aircraft being taxied around the factory facilities. Having shot a few takeoffs and taxiing Belugas, we decided to make the move to the arrival end of the runway for some final approach photographs from the top of the light tower (spot 6).
At the end of the day, we made our way into the city of Hamburg to check-in to our hotel and find some dinner. We had another early morning drive to the first Luftwaffe airbase of our trip: Fliegerhorst Schleswig and the resident Tornados of Taktisches Luftwaffengeschwader 51 “Immelmann”.
(Click on an image to enlarge)
