Sydney Airport - Observation Deck Closure

[Tony G]

Thanks for the info all. Great news on the rydges option. Zurich looks like a spotters paradise, hope to get there some day.

Thanks for sharing the memories Grahame. Yes the observation deck did run the whole length of the terminal. It was also two levels. I was quite young the last time I was there so I cannot remember if both levels went the whole length. I don't think the bottom level did. I think there was also a small fee and a number of telescopes you could use.

The east-west terminal ( near the old control tower) was probably one of the best locations from memory (before the third runway). If you had a decent size lens you basically had access to every movement. The best part is you had Fokker 27s, 50s etc parked right under your nose.

[Kent Broadhead]

Originally Posted by Tony G

I think there was also a small fee and a number of telescopes you could use.

I loved those telescopes!

[Noel White]

Do you remember the "live" ATC messages on the observation deck?

Put your coin in and listen to 15 minutes of "recorded" ATC speak.

[Grahame Hutchison]

I had forgotten about the ATC speakers Noel, quite novel for back then.

Fokker F27-500F VH-FCC in October 1981 operating for the mainline Ansett operation shot from the TAA / East West Observation Deck Tony.


Fokker F27-500F VH-FCF in October 1981 operated by Ansett's Airlines of New South Wales shot from the TAA / East West Observation Deck.


East West F27-500F VH-EWQ in the early days of logo aircraft.


East West F27-500F VH-EWP - no Cargo Terminal back then.


East West F28-4000 VH-EWB - I remember flying to Melbourne via Albury in this aircraft.

[Tony G]

Just as I remember Grahame. Thanks for posting. The top of the terminal carpark ( around the same area) was also a great location.

[Kurt A]

Originally Posted by Kurt A

Rydges Airport Hotel and Sydney Airport have partnered up to support aviation community activities.

The Hotel has a private conference room called the ‘Dreamliner’ located on level 9 of the hotel, there is a small outside viewing deck which can be can be used as a viewing area at a minimal fee paid at the Hotel reception on arrival.

Please note this space is strictly subject to availability and opening times to this space will posted on Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel Facebook page daily:
https://www.facebook.com/RydgesSydneyAirportHotel

The prices are as follows:
• Individual pass - $10 per person including a beverage from Touch & Go Cafe & plane spotter fact sheet
• Family pass – 2 Adults & 2 Children $30 includes beverage from Touch & Go Café and plane spotter fact sheet

See the direct article here:
http://www.rydges.com/accommodation/...lane-spotting/

Some photos of the Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel Dreamliner Room view and Viewing Deck.

View from inside the Dreamliner Room:


View of the actual Viewing Deck, which is accessible from the left hand side of the Dreamliner Room doors shown:



Panorama view from the Viewing Deck from far left corner:


Panorama view from the Viewing Deck from far right corner:


P.S: Unfortunately the area in front of the actual Viewing Deck where you see the green Exit Sign pole obstructing the view is a restricted space, and is not accessible.

[Nathan S]

I'm attending an event at the Dreamliner room at the end of the month, perfect spot for dinner and drinks!

[James R]

A little thing I know .. But does the international terminal still have the illuminated SYDNEY (KINGSFORD-SMITH) AIRPORT sign? With all the renovations, particularly recently, I hope it hasn't been lost. There was always something comforting about seeing those bright red letters out the window on arrival.

[Sarah C]

Great question James - I am sure the sign is gone after all the changes to the terminal. I remember that sign - I am sure someone will have a photo somewhere of it