How to Go Plane Spotting at Mai Khao Beach - Tips on Enjoying Aircraft Spotting on Mai Khao Beach

As one of the newest activity options for beach vacationers based in Phuket, plane spotting can be an engaging and enjoyable experience for all holidaymakers. Perfect for photography enthusiasts as well as those with a love of aircraft, it is also a free activity that's accessible to anyone who knows where to be on Mai Khao Beach. From getting there safely to making the most of the experience, here are some guidelines on how to spot planes while standing on Mai Khao Beach.

Image via pixahive

1. Timing is Everything

While it may seem strange, there is such a thing as a plane spotting season in Phuket. This is not due to the frequency of flights flying past the beach, however, but more related to the weather conditions prevalent at various times of the year. As one can imagine, the monsoon season is not the ideal time of year to engage in this activity that requires good visibility and a clear sky. The best time to go plane spotting in Phuket is from December to June, which is incidentally also the official tourist season on the island. This sunny period is perfect for the activity due to the great visibility as well as the ideal wind direction that makes it easy for planes to take off as well as land safely on the island. The wind typically blows in from east to west during this peak tourist period while the low season sees the wind travel in the opposite direction. One of the irritating things about plane spotting during the off-season is that planes will approach the sky from the roadside and take off over the beach, which is far less visually appealing.

2. The History of Plane Spotting

Plane spotting is somewhat of a novelty tourist activity on Mai Khao Beach, which was until recently, quite deserted as most beachgoers favoured more popular beach hubs on the island. Several years ago, it would not have been an uncommon sight to find Mai Khao Beach completely deserted although nudists would use the beach now and then due to the privacy it afforded. This particular practice has come to a halt, however, as the frequency of plane landings have made it less discrete for nudists. 

3. Get the App

All those who plan on going plane spotting in Phuket would do well to download the FlightRadar 24 app on their mobile phone as it will inform users of when a plane is approaching their location. Not only will one have advanced notice of the oncoming plane but also an estimation of when it will land when the app is activated and tapping into local radar. The best time to go plane spotting in terms of the time of day is during the morning hours or when the morning turns into the afternoon. Generally, any time before 2 pm is a good time to engage in plane spotting. 

4. What to Wear

While there is no such thing as inappropriate attire for a plane spotting adventure, those who intend to stand on the beach for a few hours would be wise to wear a bathing suit or an outfit in a breathable fabric. Suntan lotion is another essential while a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are a must-have in order to combat the glare one encounters when staring up at the sky at midday.  Those who are based at Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas or any other nearby resorts in Phuket can also bring along a picnic basket with refreshments so they can stay hydrated during the experience.

5. Must-Have Gear

Photographers trying to capture the planes in flight or against the morning sky should bring a camera with excellent zoom capabilities.