Brussels Airport 2016 Spotters Day

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NOTE: To read this post in another language, use the translator located to the right of this page.

On the 29th of August, 25 planespotters were allowed to go airside at Brussels Airport (BRU/EBBR) for the 2016 Spotters Day, the second event of this type celebrated at this airport.
Everyone who wanted to attend had to take part on an online contest.

 One of the lucky winners was me... ;)

 The spotters day started at 4 PM and ended at 8 PM. At 4 PM sharp, all participants were gathered at a restaurant inside the departures hall and were given an accreditation badge and a fluorescent vest. Ear plugs were also available on request.

 To start off, we were guided through the connector to a waiting area. Upon passing security screening, two groups were made, and took turns in visiting the "Stand and Gate Allocation" facility.
As this facility is located high up in its own "control tower", it offers interesting views of the aircraft below, here's an example:

We were briefly allowed to take pictures of everything, and were told about what was done from there.

 After this, everyone proceeded further on to a gate in Pier A, where a bus was waiting for the group.
Following a short drive near the parked aircraft we arrived at the first spot, located near the Ethiopian 787.
   This spot was located near Pier B, and we were able to see all aircraft taxiing after landing on runway 25L.
We missed some interesting aircraft like the Emirates Skycargo 777, which landed on runway 25R.
In return, we got to see the Brussels Airlines A320 in the Red Devils livery and the Detur (Corendon) 737, something that was quite nice.
We were provided with water and a small snack.
After a while, some of us were allowed to take a quick peek inside the Ethiopian 787-8, just before it was towed to its gate.
The amazing cockpit of the 787-8.
Business class seats on the Ethiopian Airlines Dreamliner.

At around 5:30 PM we were asked to board the bus again, and everyone was taken to the second photography spot.
Upon arriving I discovered that aircraft taxiing from the left were backlit, but even so, it was nice to watch them taxiing incredibly close, with most pilots waving as they taxiied past the spotters!

We also got to see takeoffs and landings on runway 25R, but they were also backlit...
Aircraft taxiing from the right had amazing light, and airplanes such as the Belgian Air Force A321 or the Croatia Airlines Fokker 100 taxiied past. 
One of the three Brussels Airlines specials.
We got to stay there until shortly after 8 PM, when we were asked to gather all together to take a group photo. Afterwards we climbed on the bus and were given a goody bag that included some stickers, sunglasses...

All in all, a lovely experience. 

A big thank you to the Brussels Airport personnel for making this an amazing day!

 You may find more photos from this day below (this may not work in some phones, click here if you don't see anything below)

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