LGA runway 4 landings - any way to know when they're using it?

[tjas]

I gather that LaGuardia often uses runway 4 for takeoffs, but rarely for landings. Any way to know when planes are landing on 4 without going out there? Apparently, planes landing on 4 fly really low over a park, but that approach is rarely used.

Also, is there any comparable spot at JFK, where landing planes fly overhead at 200-300 feet?

[moose135]

I wouldn't say it's rarely used, Planeview Park is one of our "usual" spots, but it depends a lot on weather. This time of year, with northwesterly winds, you won't see it used as much. The best way to check on runway use is to call the ATIS number - (718) 898-0272 - it's the same ATIS broadcast that goes out over the radio for aircraft use.

[gonzalu]

They were using it this evening as witnessed by me coming back from JFK :-)

[tjas]

Thanks for the ATIS info, moose135, this is the first I knew about ATIS. Turns out the number is actually (718) 898-0171.

[moose135]

I've never seen that number, but I know the one I posted works...

And yes, JFK has the same, ATIS is at (718) 995-8188

[Delta777LR]

Runway 22 at LGA is once in a blue moon used for take offs on a Saturday or early sunday if runways 13/31 are closed, also depending on the wind direction. Thats also a great time to be at Planeview Park!

[tjas]

And yes, JFK has the same...

Where's the prime spot(s) near JFK?

[moose135]

Where's the prime spot(s) near JFK?

There really isn't a close up spot like Planeview Park, but there are good spots for most every runway combination. Best place to start is by reviewing the spotting guides here.

[gonzalu]

If there has to be a PRIME location for JFK in terms of closeness, it would be Bayswater and The Mounds.. see the guide and also my map may be helpful with distances and landing paths for all runways

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=the+mo...N&hl=en&tab=wl

Zoom in and click on the light green lines for distances from the common spotting locations.

At LGA if they are taking off RWY 22, Landing Lights and Plane View parks are TERRIFIC however consider that you will be directly on the flight path so you get mostly belly shots. For side shots you need to step away towards the Hotels east of the park but then your shooting area is limited by lots and lots of obstructions.

For spotting (not photography) RWY 22 departures are very very exciting at LGA!!

[moose135]

For spotting (not photography) RWY 22 departures are very very exciting at LGA!!

22 departures aren't bad for photography either - these are all from Planeview Park.