Aviation is more than transportation. For many of us it is an experience, a passion, and even a hobby. Some airports around the world offer incredible views, unique approaches, cutting edge design, or incredible spotting opportunities. Visiting them turns any flight into an unforgettable memory.

Here is a list of the top 10 airports every aviation lover should visit at least once, whether you enjoy aircraft, photography, or unique travel moments.

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1. Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM)

Saint Martin

SXM is legendary among aviation fans. Jets fly extremely low over Maho Beach during final approach, creating one of the most iconic spotting locations in the world. It is the perfect combination of turquoise water, close-up landings, and beach atmosphere.

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2. Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Hong Kong

HKG is a masterpiece of engineering and one of the busiest international hubs. It offers impressive mountain and sea views during takeoff and landing. The SkyDeck viewing terrace is one of the best official spotting platforms anywhere.

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3. Innsbruck Airport (INN)

Austria

INN sits in the middle of the Alps and features one of the most scenic and challenging approaches in Europe. Aircraft pass between steep mountain ranges, giving passengers breathtaking views. Aviation photographers love this airport for winter shots.

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4. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND)

Japan

Haneda blends efficiency, design, and incredible aviation culture. It has several open-air observation decks with clear views of the runways and the Tokyo skyline. It is also one of the busiest airports in the world, which means non-stop action for spotters.

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5. Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC)

Portugal

FNC offers dramatic approaches with cliffs, mountains, sudden winds, and a runway built on massive pillars over the ocean. It is a unique and challenging destination for pilots and a stunning experience for passengers.

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6. Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Switzerland

Zurich is well known for its clean design and its high-quality spotting terraces. The airport offers guided backstage tours, runway view platforms, and excellent visibility. With the Alps in the background, it is a paradise for aviation photographers.

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7. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

United States

LAX is a classic for aviation fans. From iconic locations like the In-N-Out Burger spotting area to Westchester Parkway, you can see aircraft from around the world. It is one of the best airports for widebody spotting.

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8. Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH)

Qatar

DOH is modern, luxurious, and architecturally impressive. Its runways extend into the sea and the airport regularly hosts some of the newest long-haul aircraft. It is a great place to enjoy modern aviation design and observe international routes.

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9. London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

United Kingdom

LHR is one of the busiest aviation hubs in the world. The variety of airlines and aircraft types is unmatched. Places like Myrtle Avenue make Heathrow a dream for spotters who want to capture aircraft from every continent.

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10. Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

New Zealand

ZQN offers one of the most beautiful approaches on Earth. Aircraft fly through snow-capped mountains and land in a valley filled with lakes and forests. The scenery alone makes it a bucket-list destination for pilots and travelers.

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Final Thoughts

These airports offer more than flights. They offer experiences that aviation lovers remember for life. Whether you enjoy aircraft photography, unique approaches, modern airport architecture, or simply love the feeling of flying, each of these airports deserves a place on your travel list.

If you track your visits with SkyJourney.app, you can log each landing, mark new airports on your map, and build your own aviation bucket list.