KCLT - Charlotte/Douglas Airport, On-Going Thread

[moose135]

Rather than start a new thread for each quick trip to the airport, I thought I'd start this thread and update it periodically as I get out to KCLT.

Last Friday, heading into the holiday weekend, I got out of work early, and checked FlightAware, on the chance that something interesting would be around. I saw a Sun Country 737 and FedEx A300 due in around 6pm, and an Insel Air MD-80 expected to depart around the same time, so I headed on down.

Got to the overview just in time to see AC Jazz departing.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3wW9BVf/0/XL/JM20120831C-GZJA002-XL.jpg

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http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xxttdXQ/0/XL/JM20120831N335EN001-XL.jpg

The park is next to the approach end of Rwy 18C - and right on schedule, I see a little blue airplane in the distance, and realize Sun Country is landing on 18L...he took off on that same runway about 40 minutes later. About 20 minutes later, there was a break in departures on 18C so they could cross some aircraft that landed behind us on 18R, and of course, there was that FedEx A300 I was waiting for. And that Insel Air Mad Dog? FlightAware showed it was delayed, and not expecting to depart until after sunset, so I called it a day.

[moose135]

With the Democratic Convention getting geared up in town, I took a ride down to the airport on Sunday afternoon, to see if anything interesting was around. Police had a variety of detours and closed roads around the airport, including the route I would take to the airport overview. When I got to the closed section - only official and service vehicles were getting through, the officer asked where I was going. She said the park was closed, and would be closed all week - not what I was hoping to hear.

I didn't bother going out Wednesday afternoon when Air Force 1 was arriving, but tonight I decided to give it a try and see if I might catch the big jet - it was parked over by the ANG area. A lap around the airport didn't reveal the VC-25, but I did find the overview open. I was actually surprised, that even after 8pm, in the dark, there were easily a dozen cars there with people watching departures. I got out the tripod and spent a little time shooting...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xrkTSXD/0/XL/JM20120906CLTOverview001-XL.jpg

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Downtown - sorry, Uptown Charlotte...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-bbzjLqX/0/XL/JM20120906CLTOverview006-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xxmGwJv/0/XL/JM20120906CLTOverview017-XL.jpg

This guy cooperated by sitting on the taxiway for about 20 minutes, so I could try a bunch of shots.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-QJcL9Qd/0/XL/JM20120906CLTOverview011-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-VGV7Q6t/0/XL/JM20120906CLTOverview009-XL.jpg

[steve1840]

Keep the CLT stuff coming Moose! I may have to get you my flight details next weekend when I pass through there in hopes you can get a shot of mynflight(s).

[Sebastian G.]

Thank you for sharing these very nice pictures!

[Futterman]

Moose! Awesome shots.

I was hanging out with 'Agent Smith' last week back in New York and he mentioned you moved down south a while ago. Good to see you haven't lost your touch in the warmer weather.

Just checked to see if I was working when you were out spotting but it turns out I was home with family. Did just finish a working 4 days down through CLT though -- were you out at all between the 4th and the 7th?

Quick story about the -300 you shot, HDN. I had the fortune of flying our friend Josh Akbar on that airplane about a year ago. Against my better judgement, we met up for cheesesteaks in Philly before blasting off for Charlottesville. Once we were in the air and the cabin started to pressurize, my bowels decided to do the same thing, and I was reminded at several personal low points during the flight that Philadelphia's flagship sandwich must either not agree with me or have some commercial agreement with Pepto-Bismol. My meal and I even decided to have some quality time partying with the blue-juice for about 15 minutes after the passengers, my flight attendant, and my captain all went inside after landing. What a great night...

SO, if you ever ride on that particular airplane, I suggest you stay seated and cross your legs. I can't imagine there's enough lav-service in the entire state of North Carolina to right this wonderful wrong. :wink:

My schedule has me working through CLT again next Saturday, Sunday, and Monday afternoon/evenings. Shall we?

Brian

[skyteam18]

Man, I am digging that head-on 737 shot! Bitchin shot sir.

[PhilDernerJr]

That US 762 is...wow. Great work!!!!

[moose135]

That would be great, Brian! PM me your schedule, and we'll set something up - we'll skip the cheesesteaks, maybe try some BBQ!

Took a quick ride out after work on Friday, and decided to break out the 100-400...that's a lot of lens for this spot.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-78Nphdx/0/XL/JM20120907N550UW002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-nfB2X5g/0/XL/JM20120907N550UW003-XL.jpg

At 100mm, you can't fit this in the frame when it passes directly in front of you.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-KJkS4gC/0/XL/JM20120907N273AY002-XL.jpg

So you make do...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Dm57SmM/0/XL/JM20120907N273AY003-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-C9Sc739/0/XL/JM20120907N331EN001-XL.jpg

Yes, he landed on the right side again, but at least with the long lens, I could get something of him.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-nXpkMSb/0/XL/JM20120907N730FD001-XL.jpg

Hawker owned by Cox Communications out of Atlanta. He departed in front of us about 20 minutes later.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-5wPFmXh/0/XL/JM20120907N1630001-XL.jpg

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This week, I also made the decision to embrace the fact that I'm seeing all these US Airways jets. Much like I've been working to get all of the JetBlue fleet (I'm about 6 short on that) I thought I'd see how much of the US fleet I can get. Now, this will be a little tougher than JB - US has about 340 mainline aircraft, plus some 270+ on the Express side. Looking through my photos, between stuff I've shot in NYC and PHL, plus two or three visits to CLT, I've already got 30% of the mainline fleet, and more than a quarter of the Express regionals. I'll see how this goes...

[LGA777]

Moose, really enjoying your CLT photos, still have not made it to the overlook, def on my list of places to go though. I look forward to many more from CLT from one of my favorite fellow photags.

[megatop412]

That's a great shot of 251AY Mark, I've shot her at PHL.

Brian sorry to hear about your incident with the cheesesteak- I swear they're not all bad here!

[TJK]

Really great photos, and one heck of a vantage point!

[Futterman]

Haha. As people in a ****ty relationship once said, "It's not you. It's me." I have no beef with the Philly Cheesesteak, no pun.

Moose, check 'yo PMs.

BF

[Roush6NY]

Really great stuff, Moose .. Keep em coming sir

[steve1840]

This week, I also made the decision to embrace the fact that I'm seeing all these US Airways jets. Much like I've been working to get all of the JetBlue fleet (I'm about 6 short on that) I thought I'd see how much of the US fleet I can get. Now, this will be a little tougher than JB - US has about 340 mainline aircraft, plus some 270+ on the Express side. Looking through my photos, between stuff I've shot in NYC and PHL, plus two or three visits to CLT, I've already got 30% of the mainline fleet, and more than a quarter of the Express regionals. I'll see how this goes...


Should plan a trip out to PHX. You probably get their whole western fleet in two days.

[moose135]

Sunday certainly wasn't your typical A.net-photo type of day - cloudy, misty, a little rain, but Steve was connecting through CLT on his way home, and asked if I could get a few shots for him. For only the second time that I've been out there, they were using Rwy 36 L/C/R for operations. That meant they would be departing, rather than arriving, past the overlook. Steve's plane arrived on 36L, which is behind the overlook, but I did catch it when it crossed the center runway.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-rzCr6NL/0/XL/JM20120916N714US001-XL.jpg

And of course, they departed on 36R, so he was off in the distance a little...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pbNBX4b/0/XL/JM20120916N427US002-XL.jpg

I also caught the Carolina Panthers logo jet waiting to cross 36C.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-75TKvsG/0/XL/JM20120916N717UW001-XL.jpg

You get a nice angle on departures this way.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-mdzW6NP/0/XL/JM20120916N191UW001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-4K4scxm/0/XL/JM20120916N458UW001-XL.jpg

For a while, it was raining down at the far end of the runway...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-g4FxqkL/0/XL/JM20120916N179UW001-XL.jpg

Not sure what the deal was with this Delta 738 - FlightAware showed he was only going to Atlanta, but tower cleared him to back-taxi if he needed the full length of the runway, and he rotated and lifted much later than anyone else, as you can see.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-LXCg5bN/0/XL/JM20120916N3743H002-XL.jpg

This Navy T-6 departed and gave us a nice banking turn out of the pattern.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3L5H4J8/0/XL/JM20120916Navy166089002-XL.jpg

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Over in the cargo area, I saw a United 757 - it wasn't really in a good spot to shoot, but it turns out it was a charter for the NO Saints, who were playing the Charlotte Panthers on Sunday. I guess I'll have to start paying attention to these NFL charters the next few months.

[steve1840]

Thanks for getting the shots of my flights Moose! Great job despite the conditions. Any chance there are any spots by the cargo area you can shoot from without getting chased away?

I know what you mean about the charters. PVD gets the majority of the NFL charters for Patriots games.

[moose135]

Glad to be able to catch your flights, Steve. You'll have to come down for a spotting trip one of these days. I was talking with one of the regulars in the overview area, and he said he's been down the other end, sitting in a chair shooting and security just drives by and waves. I'll have to investigate further...

[Futterman]

Saw that United 753 sitting on the ramp by 36R yesterday, nice to know the backstory.

Flew through again today but only up and down 18L for a quick Florence, SC roundtrip daytrip. There was an incredible downpour right over downtown CLT as we were climbing out around 5pm...

B

[steve1840]

Glad to be able to catch your flights, Steve. You'll have to come down for a spotting trip one of these days. I was talking with one of the regulars in the overview area, and he said he's been down the other end, sitting in a chair shooting and security just drives by and waves. I'll have to investigate further...

I'm looking into it. What's your schedule like? If I come down its just gonna be a day trip and would probably not be getting a rental car. Best days for me are Friday or Saturday

[moose135]

Hey Steve, a Saturday would work best for me. After next week, I don't have anything specific on the calendar until the beginning of November.

After seeing the UAL 757 on Sunday for the NO Saints, and with the Giants in town to play the Panthers tonight, I knew there would be something special lurking. They came in Wednesday afternoon on a UAL 764, and after work today I took a run out to see what I could see. It was parked behind one of the cargo buildings, same spot as the 757 on Sunday. I found the parking lot went right up to the fence, so I pulled in and parked, got some shots, and rolled on out.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-FM9Z8fM/0/XL/JM20120920N69059001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-DCwspSz/0/XL/JM20120920N69059002-XL.jpg

After that, I stopped by the overlook for half an hour before sunset (and heading home to watch the G-Men...)

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-SVWt6hm/0/XL/JM20120920N459UW001-XL.jpg

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ETA: It turns out our favorite Futt is in the right seat of that Dash-8!

[PhilDernerJr]

Moose, I thought about Futt when I saw that shot. That's incredible.

That 757 shot is simply amazing. Love it.

[moose135]

Thanks, Phil! I was getting ready to leave, as the wave of departures had just about ended, but I saw something big on approach, which turned out to be the 757. I'm glad I waited for it, not only for how the shot turned out, but because the Dash-8 was the next plane in. I didn't even know Futt was in the Dash when I shot it. I posted it on FB, and he asked what time it was when I took the shot...just a happy circumstance.

[moose135]

Since I can't catch any of the UN traffic this week, I swung by CLT for a little bit this afternoon. The Insel Air Mad Dog comes in every Saturday, and I thought I'd try to catch it...of course, it landed on Rwy 23.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3KLQhhJ/0/XL/JM20120922InselAir001-XL.jpg

I have to A - find a place to shoot 23 arrivals, and B - find out how law enforcement feels about such locations...

To make up for the the Insel disappointment, I did catch a couple of heavies. The daily LH A340 from Munich made an appearance.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-GG9tTK4/0/XL/JM20120922D-AIHP002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gjX74bg/0/XL/JM20120922D-AIHP003-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pT9gSjP/0/XL/JM20120922D-AIHP004-XL.jpg

Lufty was followed by this US A330 from Rome.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-PS2Zbpm/0/XL/JM20120922N272AY002-XL.jpg

And I saw this Dash-8, which looked like it was put together from the spare parts bin - a mis-matched nose cone, and that fuselage panel ahead of the wing sure looks like it belongs on a different airplane. When I took this shot he was in "line up and wait" position, and I noticed what looks like the speed brakes raised on the wings. I didn't realize the Dash was so stunningly overpowered that you need to put out the boards at idle to keep from moving... :wink:

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-c6C43mc/0/XL/JM20120922N806EX001-XL.jpg

Finally, speaking of the LH A340...the first time I was out spotting and it arrived, I saw this woman. Just before the airplane got there, she walked over near the fence, raised her arms, and started a sing-song kind of chant. She continued it the entire time the airplane was on the ground - sometimes standing, sometimes kneeling, sometimes sitting on the ground. After the plane departed, she left. I've seen her out several times now, and in talking to one of the regulars, he said she is always out to greet the LH A340 like that - and that when they sub an A330, she doesn't come out. In fact, this afternoon, I looked at my watch and thought "Lufty must be getting close..." and about the same time, from behind me, I heard her start her chant, followed by the crew checking in with tower on final...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-r8TjGGT/0/XL/JM20120922CLTOverlook001-XL.jpg

[PhilDernerJr]

I've heard about her and have been wondering the storyr behind that for a long time. If you hear anything let us know please!!!

[Iberia A340-600]

Lovely shots, Moose. A few months back I shared the story of the woman, as well as the YouTube videos, with my fellow Lufthansa employees based in CLT and they got quite the kick out of it!

[adscram14]

Great stuff, Moose. The McDonald's/Wendy's/KFC near 23 on Wilkinson are the best spots. I've never had an issue with police.

I always see her as well. She has to call airport ops each time she's there, and she never says why. I'm somewhat afraid to ask her myself.

[Futterman]

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xx3pQkk/0/XL/JM20120920N335EN001-XL.jpg

This one's my favorite. :biggrin:

It was already discussed on Facebook, but that 757 did a favor by keeping Moose around long enough to photograph me arriving on 18C from Charlottesville, VA. I would've been waving if I wasn't flying the airplane, but I did honestly think while we were over the runway about how nice the light was for anyone taking pictures. Couldn't have worked out better!

This one's definitely a keeper. Thanks again, John.

BF

[threeholerglory]

I don't know how you can accept that Brian...just look at the yellow cast...unreal :tongue:

Great shots Moose...and don't feel bad about missing UN week, I've never been able to make it out for any of them yet. Keep up the sweet work down at CLT! I'd pinch myself to see what you could come up with down there with a 500 or bigger prime...

[moose135]

Thanks, guys, I appreciate it. And Adam, thanks for the tip on the 23 location, I know where you're talking about, I'll have to check it out soon.

[USAir767]

Nice shots Moose!

Xander

[moose135]

Thanks, Xander, and welcome to NYCA - I see you found us!

[Chris102]

Great shots so far, Moose!

Were you able to get Air Force Two yesterday?

[moose135]

Thanks, Chris. No, I completely missed AF2 - I didn't realize VPOTUS was in town until I saw the story about his appearance on the Charlotte Observer web site after it ended. I suspect we may see more such visits in the next few weeks, as NC is a swing state.

[moose135]

Word was this was coming in on Saturday morning, then it arrived yesterday. I took an extended lunch today, and ran over to catch it. They had unloaded it when I got there, and were just storing ramps and buttoning it up. Don't know when it is leaving, but should be sooner rather than later.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-mQmpdCM/0/XL/JM20121026RA-82045An-124001-XL.jpg

I'll post more when that pesky work is out of the way - and while this was the most interesting thing at CLT, it wasn't the only interesting thing...more to come!

[Roush6NY]

What a great catch, Moose !

[moose135]

More of the Russian beast...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-mSP9QDj/0/XL/JM20121026RA-82045An-124002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-KRbKkts/0/XL/JM20121026RA-82045An-124003-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Mbnwwxq/0/XL/JM20121026RA-82045An-124004-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-RZLmb5L/0/XL/JM20121026RA-82045An-124006-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-wGr885J/0/XL/JM20121026RA-82045An-124008-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-FKq8FHL/0/XL/JM20121026RA-82045An-124009-XL.jpg

As I mentioned, there was a post on the CLT Spotters FB page saying this was due in on Saturday. Last night, I discovered it had arrived mid-morning (and there wasn't anything happening in the office that couldn't have waited an hour for me to go shoot the arrival...) I was working from home today, and took a ride out to see what was happening. They had it unloaded, and were packing up the ramps and such, then they closed the nose and seemed to button it all up. I had to get back home to deal with a request from a manager, and it turns out it departed around 3pm, about an hour after I left.

From what I've heard, the An-124 visits from time to time - not really regularly, but often enough. Siemens has a plant in the Charlotte area where they manufacture and repair gas and steam turbines and power generators, and some of those parts are very large, necessitating the -124 (and on one or two occasions the An-225!) for transport. So it is possible I'll catch a landing or take off one of these days.

[moose135]

I said the An-124 was the most interesting thing at CLT today, but not the only interesting thing I saw. This G-V is registered to the US Department of Justice. According to a local spotter I met (and who saw the police presence at the FBO prior to their departure) it was carrying Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-VMRMzsc/0/XL/JM20121026N977GAGulfstreamV001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xDr7PjM/0/XL/JM20121026N977GAGulfstreamV002-XL.jpg

And this guy must have taken a left at Helsinki instead of a right...yes, it's a Finnair E-170 arriving at CLT. FlightAware shows it came in from Boston. FA also shows that same Finnair flight number (8951) used a bunch of times in the past few months, all for E-170 flights, most originating out of Phoenix Deer Valley Airport. Anybody know if they do some maintenance/refurbishing work there? I couldn't find anything obvious online.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-2zkGdLr/0/XL/JM20121026OH-LELE170001-XL.jpg


ETA: I hear from Matt that Honeywell has been using that Finnair E170 for test work since January. Makes it an even cooler catch!

[Chris102]

Very nice shots, John!

I'm surprised Jill Biden was using a government jet--when she came here about three weeks ago, she was on a chartered Challenger.

[Just_Lucas]

Nice Mate,can i ask what kind of camera your using?i keep switching back and fourth eos and nikon,Theres a private jet Center not far from here that I've never been Inside yet with a lot of ww2 Planes and a mig 15 >.> i hate not being able to drive

[moose135]

Thanks! Justin, I'm shooting with a Canon 40D. You should just pick one of those cameras you have and learn how to use it well, rather than switching back and forth.

Chris, I wonder if the difference was due to availability, or perhaps because one was strictly a campaign trip versus some official function. I didn't hear why she was in town today, I'll have to check the paper.

[Chris102]

Chris, I wonder if the difference was due to availability, or perhaps because one was strictly a campaign trip versus some official function. I didn't hear why she was in town today, I'll have to check the paper.

That's what I was thinking, too. It's probably cheaper to campaign with a government aircraft than a chartered one--if I'm not mistaken, campaigners have to refund the government only the price of a first-class commercial ticket when flying on unofficial business.

It's a very rare catch--congrats on getting some great shots of it! It's been mentioned as one of the CIA's rendition aircraft:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rendition_aircraft#N596GA.2FN977GA

[moose135]

Got a call today from a fellow CLT spotter I met shooting the Antonov about a special that was in town at the FBO. Since I'm in the half of the company with power, and we're covering for the half without power in the NYC area, I had to wait until the end of the day to take a run down there. Fortunately, it was still there...

Ecuador Air Force Embraer ERJ-135

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Qjj7mxr/0/XL/JM_2012_10_30_FAE-051_001-XL.jpg

[moose135]

I hadn't been out to CLT in a month, and today being a perfect day, weather-wise, I headed over this afternoon.

One special scheme for the day.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Rjz9pD9/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_N701UW_001-XL.jpg

The Dash 8 is so stunningly overpowered, they have to keep the spoilers up on the ground to keep it from flying away... :-)

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-4JCfzsF/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_N930HA_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jKSc74G/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_N953DL_001-XL.jpg

This Citation is owned by a subsidiary of the Coca Cola Bottling Company, based in Charlotte.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-X7tfPdq/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_N901FH_001-XL.jpg

Falcon 2000 owned by Sonic Financial, an insurance and investment company located in Charlotte.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-mw8TQbv/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_N505RR_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-TBPBCzM/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_C-FFJA_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-TKSgQL5/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_N478AA_001-XL.jpg

I never knew CRJs had an in-flight refueling receptacle above the cockpit!

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-crqf2wp/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_N241PS_001-XL.jpg

Lufthansa has switched its daily flight to an A330, and yes, our friend was out to greet it.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-2jRDPh9/0/XL/JM_2012_12_01_D-AIKR_001-XL.jpg

[moose135]

I wasn't feeling too ambitious today, so since it was beautiful weather, and after goofing off all morning, I took a ride to CLT this afternoon.

First thing I noticed was this Southwest 737 parked on the ramp. Curious, since WN doesn't fly here normally. I figured it must be some sort of charter...was I ever wrong.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-6D2qtR8/0/XL/JM_2012_12_02_N281WN_001-XL.jpg

More of the usual suspects - this AA MD-83, N961TW, started life flying for TWA...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-qDDQhdg/0/XL/JM_2012_12_02_N961TW_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xbkwv2g/0/XL/JM_2012_12_02_N702UW_001-XL.jpg

The LH A330 arrived on the left side. As it was on final, I saw this on final for 18C - yes, another WN 737...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-c6KZTcN/0/XL/JM_2012_12_02_N430WN_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-tnjV6LD/0/XL/JM_2012_12_02_N430WN_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-r94DFbH/0/XL/JM_2012_12_02_N430WN_004-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-ZvRrZn5/0/XL/JM_2012_12_02_N430WN_005-XL.jpg

It turns out WN flight 385 from New Orleans to Baltimore (MSY-BWI) diverted into CLT, reportedly with smoke in the cockpit. That's the aircraft out on the ramp, N281WN. The second WN flight came out of Midway to pick up the passengers and take them on to their destination.

[USAir767]

Great shots! Love the WN 737 shots, wish i went out that day. N281WN is the 500th 737 for WN as well...

[Steven Holzinger]

I've got to get out there sometime... even if it's for a weekend!

[moose135]

I've been keeping an eye on the NFL schedule to see who would be in town to play the Panthers, and what they fly. Other than the Giant's UA 764 earlier this year, there weren't too many noteworthy charters, mostly US, AA, and DL. But I had this weekend circled on the calendar. The Oakland Raiders are in town, and they use Hawaiian Airlines. It's an early Christmas present for the CLT spotting community!

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-GmsthcC/0/XL/JM_2012_12_22_N589HA_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-4zC3jBs/0/XL/JM_2012_12_22_N589HA_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jHNdGMx/0/XL/JM_2012_12_22_N589HA_003-XL.jpg

[steve1840]

Nice catch Moose....as far as charters go, is there any way to find out what teams use what airline? Or do most just use UA?

[adscram14]

@Steve, try this link: http://discussions.flightaware.com/notable-activity/mlb-nfl-nba-charter-planes-t5765-525.html?sid=d35142d5fdc3312e85674d84db2c66f5

Rather than starting a new thread I'll post my shots of Hawaiian.

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc398/adscram14/N589HA2_zps44c96442.jpg

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc398/adscram14/N589HA_zpsa69ea759.jpg

[steve1840]

Excellent! Thanks for the link Adam!

[moose135]

Steve, there is also this thread on A.net with NFL charter info: http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/general_aviation/read.main/5613766/

From an earlier A.net thread on 2012 NFL charters, airline usage is:
DL - 15
UA - 12
AA - 2
US - 2
HA - 1

I just checked the Panthers' schedule earlier in the season to see who would be in town, and Googled to see what I would come up with. The Seattle Seahawks, who were here in October, used HAL a year or two ago as well, but they switched to DL this season, so we didn't get a second chance at one of these. Looks like there are a couple of interesting NBA charters on the FA list, Adam. I'll have to keep an eye on the Bobcats' schedule too.

[moose135]

It turned into a nice day today, so I spent a couple of hours down at CLT this afternoon.

First decent shots I've gotten of the Allegheny retro colors.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-NtJ8jJV/0/XL/JM_2012_12_30_N745VJ_001-XL.jpg

One of US Airways' newest A321s, delivered in October. It still has that new airplane smell!

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-ZMh3898/0/XL/JM_2012_12_30_N561UW_001-XL.jpg

We finally got some heavy metal among all the RJs...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-vQxc7Cr/0/XL/JM_2012_12_30_N202UW_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-zRWBmW3/0/XL/JM_2012_12_30_D-AIKQ_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-rh5Ss6b/0/XL/JM_2012_12_30_N276AY_001-XL.jpg

I was surprised to see this still had "Continental Express" titles, the other two I saw today had "United Express" on them.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3PDgG9d/0/XL/JM_2012_12_30_N277SK_001-XL.jpg

Falcon 2000EX owned by Duke Energy, so yes, my electric bill goes to pay for the gas in this thing...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-NzxV4Wb/0/XL/JM_2012_12_30_N801DE_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xRnbvSF/0/XL/JM_2012_12_30_N923AT_001-XL.jpg

[moose135]

There were too many in-and-out clouds for today to be a "perfect" spotting day, but at 3pm, ATIS was reporting 73 degrees at CLT, and that called for a trip to the overview.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-CqCmnTQ/0/XL/JM_2013_01_13_N130HQ_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-TxPQHkk/0/XL/JM_2013_01_13_N673AW_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-DfxLpVp/0/XL/JM_2013_01_13_N284AY_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-C6RRXmb/0/XL/JM_2013_01_13_D-AIKR_001-XL.jpg

BTW, much like my surprise catch of Futt in his Dash-8 a while back, it turns out I had a buddy flying that AirTran jet above. An old friend, a classmate from USAF pilot training and a captain at AirTran, was flying her.

[nssd70]

When is the best time of year for photgraphing planes at CLT?

Doug

[moose135]

I've been down here since August, and I really haven't found a bad time yet. The main runway is 18/36, with the overview on the west side of the 18C approach end, so it's good all afternoon. Obviously, as the days get longer, we'll have more time to shoot from there, but we get most of the interesting stuff before dark anyway.

[nssd70]

Thanks for the response. US Airways has a non-stop flight from Des Moines,and I've been wanting to get their A330 and 767's. I assume if I was there for a couple of days that I would see most everything.

Doug

[moose135]

Thanks to a heads up from Adam this afternoon, I swung by CLT to catch this Kalitta B727 on the ramp.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Other/Photo-A-Day/Photo-A-Day-2013/i-958gFP6/0/XL/JM_2013_01_19_N724CK_001-XL.jpg

[moose135]

Another day, another dinosaur...

Chartered B727 operated by Paradigm Air, flying the NBA Houston Rockets to CLT to play the Charlotte Bobcats on Monday.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-kjbXNZq/0/XL/JM_2013_01_20_N104HR_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-FmHCtLH/0/XL/JM_2013_01_20_N104HR_003-XL.jpg

It's not every day you see a pair of 722s together on the ramp.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-q3QcpQd/0/XL/JM_2013_01_20_N104HR_004-XL.jpg

We caught this LH A380 passing overhead.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-qKXLrT4/0/XL/JM_2013_01_20_LH_A380_Contrail_001-XL.jpg

[moose135]

The Paradigm B727 arrived on 18L, so we were over on the parking deck to shoot the arrival. That spot also overlooks the US Express ramp...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-NFJ4Qcq/0/XL/JM_2013_01_20_N910FJ_001-XL.jpg

Meanwhile, back at the overview..

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-7kR3hj7/0/XL/JM_2013_01_20_N454UW_001-XL.jpg

They ended up switching to Rwy 36 shortly after we got back from shooting the 727. Here's a Delta DC-9-51 blasting off.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-fVg6CH7/0/XL/JM_2013_01_20_N773NC_002-XL.jpg

Putting it down right on the numbers!

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pHDdcbP/0/XL/JM_2013_01_20_N282AY_001-XL.jpg

[USAir767]

Great photos! Which parking deck were you on? And how much?

Xander

[moose135]

We were up on the East Daily deck, $1 for the first hour.

[USAir767]

OK, thanks! Might have to try that spot out once.

Xander

[moose135]

It was a "heavy" afternoon at KCLT today.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-ckHSkw9/0/XL/JM_2013_01_27_N279AY_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Lmj4TbR/0/XL/JM_2013_01_27_N276AY_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-NbJsCVn/0/XL/JM_2013_01_27_N282AY_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-JnzWfHB/0/XL/JM_2013_01_27_D-AIKQ_001-XL.jpg

"Caution, wake turbulence behind the departing Cessna..."

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-RPhNF8K/0/XL/JM_2013_01_27_N739VE_001-XL.jpg

It was like a Hitchcock movie out there. Of course, the Dash-8 does have to worry about bird strikes from the rear.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XtF5Vg7/0/XL/JM_2013_01_27_N331EN_001-XL.jpg

You know you've been out spottting for a while when you catch the same airplane arriving and then departing again...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-BRkXZwp/0/XL/JM_2013_01_27_N435US_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-cFzmNdk/0/XL/JM_2013_01_27_N435US_002-XL.jpg

[AJ]

What a great spot? Excellent shots Moose. I will make it there one day. Thanks for posting.

AJ

[USAir767]

I was out there this weekend. Got all of the planes in your pictures except Lufthansa and the 737 departing. Great shots.

Xander

[moose135]

The next time you're out there, if you see a guy with a big white lens and an Air Force hat, come introduce yourself!

[USAir767]

Will do!

Xander

[Zee71]

Great stuff Moose! Hope all is well down there...........looks like pretty good action down at CLT from time to time. Keep taking those extended lunch breaks :) I would like to do the same up here but the weather has been less than favorable.

[adscram14]

When is the best time of year for photgraphing planes at CLT?

Doug

Just saw this--I agree with Moose, it really doesn't matter what time of year; however, the summer is slightly better for two main reasons: First, LH uses an A340-600 on the MUC route, and second, the 6:00 PM hour offers great traffic with a cargo flight or two thrown in, so it is some much needed variety.

[adscram14]

I forgot to post my shots from when we saw the Rockets' charter! Just two for me from that day:

http://images3.jetphotos.net/img/3/9/7/4/49893_1358731479.jpg

http://images2.jetphotos.net/img/4/2/1/4/50616_1358731412.jpg

[Mateo]

You know you've been out spottting for a while when you catch the same airplane arriving and then departing again...
You know you've been out for a while when you catch the same airplane departing and then arriving again! This wasn't especially uncommon at National, where you'd see Shuttle flights on both ends of a DCA-LGA-DCA turn, or see some of the shorter RJ flights (ORF, PIT..) go out and come back.

[tlabranche]

Amazing! How easy is it to spot at CLT? Can you walk to the spotting areas from the terminal?

[moose135]

It's probably a mile and a half to two miles from the main terminal to the spotting area - you have to loop up and around the approach end of 18C...

http://www.moose135photography.com/photos/i-fTLbtDp/0/XL/i-fTLbtDp-XL.jpg

[tlabranche]

Thanks! I think I will make a day trip in two weeks when I'm off work again.

[moose135]

Let me know - if I'm around, I'll try to join you.

[adscram14]

I'll try to join as well.

You can also get a taxi from the terminal or take the parking bus to Long Term 1 or 3 for a shorter walk.

[tlabranche]

Sounds good! I am looking at February 12. I will catch US and arrive around 0830. I'll probably walk to the spotting area. I don't mind the exercise.

[nssd70]

Just saw this--I agree with Moose, it really doesn't matter what time of year; however, the summer is slightly better for two main reasons: First, LH uses an A340-600 on the MUC route, and second, the 6:00 PM hour offers great traffic with a cargo flight or two thrown in, so it is some much needed variety.

Thanks for the info.

Doug

[moose135]

Went out for a few hours this afternoon. Clouds held off long enough for some reasonable light for the usual suspects.

Back to back, we had US Airways' oldest A330, N270AY...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gRGM4qK/0/XL/JM_2013_02_10_N270AY_001-XL.jpg

And their newest, N285AY...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-KBz9QvD/0/XL/JM_2013_02_10_N285AY_001-XL.jpg

And just like clockwork, LH had its usual welcome to CLT.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-LC6nrXB/0/XL/JM_2013_02_10_D-AIKQ_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-krBK5td/0/XL/JM_2013_02_10_N456UW_001-XL.jpg

Caught a Southwest 737 cruising overhead.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-RSrhGmp/0/XL/JM_2013_02_10_SWA_737_001-XL.jpg

Get them before they're all gone!

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-RGK8NK3/0/XL/JM_2013_02_10_N659AE_001-XL.jpg

You had to look close, but it had what's left of a yellow ribbon on the tail.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-7bs6vr8/0/XL/JM_2013_02_10_N659AE_002-XL.jpg

[tlabranche]

Doh! Stupid Intellicast. I will see if I can swing next Tuesday. Great shots by the way.

[moose135]

I've had a FlightAware alert set for N757AF for ages - several years, easily. Just last week, I thought about cancelling it, since about all it ever showed was LGA-PBI-LGA-PBI...you get the idea, but I never did. This morning, I checked my e-mail after getting up, and saw a message saying N757AF arrived in CLT at 9:09am! Turns out The Donald is in town at speak to some business group meeting today.

And of course, we had snow today...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-PJN5jdt/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_N757AF_001-XL.jpg

Of course, the snow gave me the chance to get some deicing shots...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-ZNVrXqv/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_KCLT_DeIce_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-BcSFQ49/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_KCLT_DeIce_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-j4PJjvL/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_KCLT_DeIce_003-XL.jpg

[megatop412]

That's crazy it took several years to catch the Trump, and then only after you moved down there

[moose135]

FA was showing Trump scheduled to depart around 4:40 this afternoon. The skies were still dark, but there was a hint of sun poking through when I got back to CLT and shot the airplane without snow falling.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Sh9stg8/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_N757AF_002-XL.jpg

I had a little time to kill, so I headed to the overview for a bit. The wind picked up, the ceiling came down, and the snow started blowing. This view is out the windshield - that's where we usually shoot from. That dark line just above the top of the fence? That's the edge of the runway. They were landing Rwy 36, and a couple of guys reported breaking out right at mins. Line of the day goes to the US pilot who, after landing, told tower "This looks like Pittsburgh!"

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-vh8G4sZ/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_KCLT_Snow_001-XL.jpg

A few more deicing shots. This is one of the handful of US owned E-190s. I've only shot a few of them, and hadn't seen one at CLT before.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Ccxd8R3/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_KCLT_DeIce_006-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-wrqrmkG/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_KCLT_DeIce_004-XL.jpg

And this is what it looked like when I got home.

http://www.moose135photography.com/NorthCarolina/Charlotte-NC/i-DpQKSGH/0/XL/JM_2013_02_16_Charlotte_Snow_001-XL.jpg

Looked like Trump was cancelling for today, but FA shows he departed around 7:35pm. Would have been nice to get him in some good weather...

[adscram14]

Thanks to John, I was able to catch the Trump 757 as well:

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc398/adscram14/N757AF12002_zps9deb67b7.jpg

Went back later for the departure, but she didn't leave until late. I did catch a bit of deicing action:
http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc398/adscram14/N117HQDeice_zps5caf266e.jpg

Driving home was a nightmare, people can't drive in the snow here!

[moose135]

I got a FlightAware alert that N422BN, one of the Roush Racing 727s, was heading down to Daytona today - both have been up and down over the past week as Speedweeks got underway. I let Adam know and headed to the airport. They were using Rwy 36, so I expected that they would pass right past us by the fence at the cargo area.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-qFzJtT4/0/XL/JM_2013_02_17_N422BN_001-XL.jpg

This was "the shot"...but shooting through the fence, I didn't have a chance to compose it, and cut off a bit of the tail. :frown: I'll take it anyway.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-7DsjF9Q/0/XL/JM_2013_02_17_N422BN_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XvnVMpQ/0/XL/JM_2013_02_17_N422BN_003-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-M4j2jgT/0/XL/JM_2013_02_17_N422BN_004-XL.jpg

I already have this one, but I finally got a decent JB shot at CLT.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-qWpMRVH/0/XL/JM_2013_02_17_N265JB_001-XL.jpg

[AJ]

Nice shots on the 727.

AJ

[Chris102]

Great shots of Trump and the 727, Moose!

[adscram14]

Thanks to John again for the heads up today!

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc398/adscram14/N422BN_zps1d00a439.jpg

Speaking of "The Shot", my dang autofocus was off on the longer lens so it came out like a blurred mess. Oh well.

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc398/adscram14/N265JB_zps2f8e978a.jpg

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc398/adscram14/N328NB_zps5042746a.jpg

[tlabranche]

I love those 727 shots! I was going to try to head up there this Tuesday again, but rain is the forecast again. I'm destined to never make it.

[moose135]

You're missing all the neat stuff, Tim! The Detroit Pistons are in town to play the Bobcats tonight. Detroit uses its own MD-83 for team travel. I ran down at lunchtime, couldn't get a decent shot with other stuff on the ramp, and it was cloudy and getting dark by the time I got out of work, but I'll take what I can...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jQzPLT9/0/XL/JM_2013_02_20_N880DP_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-MjnpV6C/0/XL/JM_2013_02_20_N880DP_002-XL.jpg

[Derf]

I love the 727 rotation shot with the skyline... very nice

[moose135]

Thanks, Fred!

[adscram14]

The Czech A319 was in Charlotte today! I got there just as she departed the FBO, and was able to get a poor, backlit shot of her. Cool plane though!

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc398/adscram14/Czech_zps589752c0.jpg

[moose135]

Glad you got to see it, Adam.

[moose135]

A spring-like afternoon meant a little time at the overview today.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-sPzCZMn/0/XL/JM_2013_03_09_N701UW_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-2CpRwqQ/0/XL/JM_2013_03_09_D-AIKL_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-2LF9gXs/0/XL/JM_2013_03_09_N327EN_001-XL.jpg

In 45 minutes, I added 6 new frames to my collection of US and US Express shots!

[moose135]

It was cloudy with showers much of the day, but the Detroit Pistons are back to play the Charlotte Bobcats, and that means N880DP, their MD-83, was back. I took a ride to the airport this afternoon, just to get a shot without expecting much due to the weather. I stopped to do some shopping afterwards, and discovered the sun had come out! I ran back over to CLT, and got a few shots of the plane.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-RS5Bd6C/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_N880DP_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-zwds8Pd/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_N880DP_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-8kq7fg4/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_N880DP_003-XL.jpg

Since we had some nice afternoon light, I headed over to the overview for a while. I was greeted by the US Steelers logo jet when I arrived.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-9Pd3V2L/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_N733UW_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-dTMsr8m/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_N662QS_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-LnsXHwJ/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_N652AW_001-XL.jpg

And the one everyone waits for...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3QsLDmz/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_D-AIKR_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-nPjwHVN/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_D-AIKR_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Kw5hRMw/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_D-AIKR_004-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-MWLFQg4/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_D-AIKR_005-XL.jpg

The miracle of flight!

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gptLF9s/0/XL/JM_2013_03_23_D-AIKR_007-XL.jpg

[gonzalu]

Wow nice stuff Moose. Sadly, I will be driving next to RWY 18R/36L on my way to friends who live a bit south of the airport via I-485. Wife already warned me to NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!!

[moose135]

You're going to be in Charlotte, and not stop by the overview? How long are you going to be down here for?

[megatop412]

Manny, always keep a reserve of 'tokens' you are able to redeem in times like these- as my father used to say, 'When you get to a quarter tank, fill it up. Don't be a fool.':cool:

[nssd70]

Wow nice stuff Moose. Sadly, I will be driving next to RWY 18R/36L on my way to friends who live a bit south of the airport via I-485. Wife already warned me to NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!!

Then don't think about it,just do it!:biggrin:

Doug

[Aviation.High.Guy]

Wow nice stuff Moose. Sadly, I will be driving next to RWY 18R/36L on my way to friends who live a bit south of the airport via I-485. Wife already warned me to NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!!

Hah! Can totally relate. My wife has never been too enthusiastic about my hobbies, but plane spotting takes the cake.
We are going to Vegas next Month and she's "told me" that she gets a day at the spa, for every day I spend spotting. :tongue:

[PhilDernerJr]

Manny's saying that in this thread is clearly a cry for help.

Let's rent a dark van with no windows, get some masks and kidnap him to bring him to the airport. SYNCHRONIZE WATCHES!

[gonzalu]

You wouldn't need to use force... heck, if there would be a Stockholm Syndrome, that would be me :tongue:

So I had the pleasure of seeing three whole tails land and taxi out and two A320s on approach before they disappear below the grade (boy 485 sure is low compared to the runways) and on the way back, one A321 flew overhead and then I caught up to it as it turned out.

It was POURING RAINING and ceiling very low anyway yesterday. On my way back to Asheville, going through the mountain pass with ZERO visibility due to fog at 5 MPH was absolutely fun, NOT!!

Believe me guys, I have plenty of tokens left over.. this trip itself was a filler-up kind of trip where I didn't even bring my camera. This way I can use it up for the next opportunity.

At least I can say I saw glimpse of one of the AWOS and ILS :tongue: :tongue: (why wouldn't they build it like KMIA with the RWY level with the road? SMH)

[moose135]

It certainly wasn't spotting weather on Sunday!


At least I can say I saw glimpse of one of the AWOS and ILS :tongue: :tongue: (why wouldn't they build it like KMIA with the RWY level with the road? SMH)
That's why they built the overview...:cool:

[moose135]

70 degrees in Charlotte this afternoon called for a trip to the overview. I caught 4 different US A330s today, which made up for missing the LH A340 - for the first time that I've ever seen, they landed on 18R, behind us. I stayed for their departure, and they went off 18L...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-qBrVmgj/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N272AY_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Dg9R5Wh/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N273AY_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-wJrRMmq/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N274AY_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-6tNnRrK/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N284AY_001-XL.jpg

Also caught this US Express / Republic Airlines E-175, the 400th E-jet:

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3j8dmnJ/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N135HQ_001-XL.jpg

Southwest begins regular service to CLT next Sunday, so these will become a thing of the past.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-vRpcTCm/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N965AT_001-XL.jpg

Caught two different American Eagle RJs in new colors today! Since AA mainline only brings a Mad Dog, it might be a while before I see the colors on mainline equipment.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-F3XbLwp/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N928AE_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-dR2zB3Z/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N928AE_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XtfBBgH/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N506AE_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-HHw6Dk6/0/XL/JM_2013_04_07_N703UW_002-XL.jpg

[skyteam18]

NIce shots! looks like y'all got some spring green starting to pop out there in southern NC!

[moose135]

Spring has definitely come to CLT. It was 70 on Sunday when I shot those, and today it's supposed to touch 80.

[LGA777]

Moose with the Spring schedule change the 4 US A-330's arrive from LHR, CDG, and 2 from FRA. GIG is back to the 767 for now but with 3 new A332's arriving between June and October that will hopefully change. Oh and nice shots.

LGA777

[moose135]

Thanks, Ron! And thanks for the update on the schedule.

[megatop412]

Those landing A330's look awesome Moose. CLT is like looking at a lot of the PHL traffic...except you guys have an overlook.

[moose135]

After a long week at work, a little aviation therapy was called for Friday evening. It helped that it was 80 degrees with a gentle breeze...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-VktwsLB/0/XL/JM_2013_04_12_N744P_001-XL.jpg

On Saturday, we had a couple of interesting visitors. This C-21A, 84-0079 was in from the Michigan Air National Guard in Battle Creek.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-L3vzJs8/0/XL/JM_2013_04_13_84-0079_001-XL.jpg

This Swift Air 734 brought the Milwaukee Bucks to play the Charlotte Bobcats tonight.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gDzMn5h/0/XL/JM_2013_04_13_N801TJ_001-XL.jpg

[LGA777]

Moose, is it true starting Sunday April 14 (tomorrow) the Air Tran flights at CLT finally revert to Southwest metal?
If so wishing you lots of new Special Schemes to shoot.

LGA777

[moose135]

That's correct, Ron. I'm planning to spend some time out there tomorrow, and need to check the schedule tonight to see when they will be in. It will be nice to catch some of their specials, since it's so tough to shoot at ISP.

[moose135]

Sunday wasn't a great day for spotting, but it marked the first regularly scheduled Southwest flights into CLT, so I was out for a while. The first arrival was around 9:30am and back out a little after 10. I missed those, then as I was heading to the airport, I heard an RJ blew a tire, and 18C (the one that the Overlook, well, overlooks...) was closed - I think it happened around the time of the first WN arrival. I got out there a little before Noon, and sure enough, they were still sweeping the runway. The second WN arrival came in on the right side, so here's a shot of him crossing 18C with runway cleanup in progress.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-zdHD4vp/0/XL/JM_2013_04_14_N967WN_001-XL.jpg

They are using a gate near where AA and Eagle park. I heard that in a few months, AA will move to the US terminal, and that WN may take over those gates and expand CLT ops.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-vZ8z7VW/0/XL/JM_2013_04_14_N967WN_002-XL.jpg

The runway reopened just before his departure, but he still ended up going off the left side. The 3pm flight landed on the right side as well, as there was line of departures waiting on the center, but finally(!) they used 18C to depart.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-6DvTXQZ/0/XL/JM_2013_04_14_N735SA_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-drgL7ZV/0/XL/JM_2013_04_14_N735SA_002-XL.jpg

A few other things from Sunday. There are still a few of these Chautauqua RJs with Continental Express titles.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jCMX7Fp/0/XL/JM_2013_04_14_N275SK_001-XL.jpg

I wasn't expecting to see this guy, but I heard it was a divert into CLT, not sure why.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-tFJR8Nn/0/XL/JM_2013_04_14_N961AT_001-XL.jpg

Falcon 2000 owned by a local financial services company (not mine!) Listening to tower giving taxi instructions was like something out of Airplane!:
"505 Romeo Romeo, turn right on taxiway Romeo."
"Roger, 505 Romeo Romeo, right on Romeo..."

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-spfzZBB/0/XL/JM_2013_04_14_N505RR_001-XL.jpg

And one for Ron!

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-MJcTpgp/0/XL/JM_2013_04_14_N744P_001-XL.jpg

[NickPeterman]

Great shot of 505RR, Moose! She had departed my local here in Ft. Worth that morning after the race. I watched them loading up, but didn't stick around for the departure.

Good stuff!

[adscram14]

Great shots, John. Wish I could have been in town this weekend! I flew on 744P to JFK a few years ago--nice to see it on center for once!

[moose135]

I almost forgot this was going to be here today. I was down near the airport after work on other business, and remembered that the NY Knicks would be here to play the Bobcats. That means MSG's 734 was in town:

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-c5HvmZG/0/XL/JM_2013_04_15_N37NY_001-XL.jpg

[DHG750R]

Always enjoy seeing CLT shot from you guys, makes me miss my former employer.
I suppose the Star Alliance liveried ones will be some of the 1st to be repainted whenever that does begin. BTW are there still any 757's in the Star livery?

[adscram14]

Always enjoy seeing CLT shot from you guys, makes me miss my former employer.
I suppose the Star Alliance liveried ones will be some of the 1st to be repainted whenever that does begin. BTW are there still any 757's in the Star livery?

No 757s left in the Star colors, unfortunately!

[Chris102]

After a long week at work, a little aviation therapy was called for Friday evening. It helped that it was 80 degrees with a gentle breeze...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-VktwsLB/0/XL/JM_2013_04_12_N744P_001-XL.jpg

This is beautiful, Moose! Perfect light and background and such rich colors! One of the most striking aviation photos I've seen in a while.

Good job on the elusive N37NY. I've been trying to get that one but haven't had luck. I think it's still based at ABE but I never saw it on any of my trips down there.

[Futterman]

Strangely, Moose, I love how you and the rest of the CLT guys recap my day at work every time I get home. Just finished a five-day stretch in and out of CLT working around most of the same stuff you have pictures of in the last few posts.

- We heard about people holding in the air while they closed 18C for that tire -- we secretly wanted to hold so we'd make a few extra minutes on the clock but, silly us, that only happens when we're rushing for the hotel -- but it did gum things up for a little while. Looked like they had it off on a taxiway by the time we arrived on 23.

- Also heard about a Mesa RJ that decided to play in the mud while exiting 23 on B later that day. Oy.

- We landed from Greenville-Spartanburg shortly after Southwest's first arrival and I was wondering if anyone would be out for it since the sky was pretty dull. Shame it didn't arrive the night before when Vasco, Joe and some others were up on the hill with great light.

Speaking of which, where were you that day?

B

[moose135]

It seems like every time Joe and the guys are out, I'm off somewhere else. Saturday I was at a Civil War reenactment at a nearby historic restoration site. I decided to do that on Saturday so I could catch Southwest's first day of operations, and when I got home, discovered the gang had been out at CLT that day. I'm sure I'll catch up with them one of these days.

[moose135]

The view from the Overview today...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-m32XNjf/0/XL/JM_2013_04_20_CLT_Overview_001-XL.jpg

Well, at least from as close as anyone could get to the overview. It was closed on Tuesday following the Boston bombing, and as Adam was told today when he called Ops, would be closed "indefinitely". There were about a dozen cars parked in a dirt field across from this turnoff, and a bunch of people who had walked across the road to stand at the fence. About 5 minutes after I pulled in, and just about the time I was going to walk over to the fence, a friendly Charlotte-Mecklenberg PD officer pulled up, and over the PA announced we were in a no parking zone. He waited until everyone cleared out, and must have chased the folks away from the fence as well, as they were all gone when I made another swing by 10 minutes later. If anyone was thinking about coming down to shoot at the overview, you might want to reconsider. Who knows when this episode of Security Theater will be over...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-QJvZQZ3/0/XL/JM_2013_04_20_CMPD_001-XL.jpg

[Kris V]

So the whole nation is going into a lock down again? Well shame that is happened over at Charlotte, at least today in Anchorage the cops were no different.

[BDLGUY]

Hi John,

I have a question for you. Does "the view from the Overview" reopened after the suspect was captured?

Thanks!
John Perrotta
KBDL

[moose135]

No, it didn't John. Adam S (on this site) called airport ops on Saturday, and he was told the overview would be closed "indefinitely" and that he should call back periodically to see when it would be open.

[BDLGUY]

Oh, what a bummer!! :-(

I hope the overview will be reopened soon.

John Perrotta

[RWB]

I find it mildly ironic that for all the gruff they give to photographers in general, they sure wanted our help last week.
http://news.yahoo.com/runner-spectator-photos-marathon-suspects-014835588.html

[NickPeterman]

So, I brought up the issue of the CLT closure, and the potential for other such actions within the Washbalt Spotters Group. A few of us wrote emails, and heard back that the viewing area is now open again! So get out there and shoot for those of who wish we could get to CLT, and can't :)

[moose135]

Yes, I was told it reopened today. I may have to take a ride out after work.

[moose135]

Took a ride out to the overview after work today (they were on 36 last night, or I would have gone out then).

Longer days mean more evening flights arrive in the daylight, and this is the first 762 I've seen since last fall.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-vG8BmDd/0/XL/JM_2013_04_23_N255AY_002-XL.jpg

Caught the Steelers logo jet

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gkDMrr4/0/XL/JM_2013_04_23_N733UW_001-XL.jpg

According to Airfleets.net, this is US Airways' newest jet, delivered in late March.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-L8jrKtz/0/XL/JM_2013_04_23_N151UW_001-XL.jpg

Saw this Challenger 300 departing. Registration comes back to a leasing company in Connecticut, but a little digging online shows that the airplane belongs to the Bank of Central America (BAC).

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-DWrHbmG/0/XL/JM_2013_04_23_N480BA_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-9jwd6bC/0/XL/JM_2013_04_23_N480BA_002-XL.jpg

[Delta777LR]

Moose! u r the KCLT superspotter man!

[LGA777]

Moose you are correct about N151UW being the newest US bird, delivered on the same day as 150UW back in March, May will see 152UW and N286UW the later being a A-330-200. Great shots as usual and I agree with Sergio's comment as well.

Cheers

LGA777

[moose135]

Thanks, Ron! I caught 150UW a week or so ago as well. I guess I'll have to watch for the new ones next month. So far, even without catching any of the West metal, I've shot 2/3 of the fleet, both mainline and Express. I guess I'll have to work on getting them all before they start wearing AA colors!

[AA 777]

Great shots Moose! I'll be coming through there shortly in the new ride. I'll let you know when I get a CLT trip!

[Gerard]

Moose! u r the KCLT superspotter man!

LOL it didnt take long for Moose to grab the crown!!

[AA 777]

Mooose...

Gonna be around the 8th? I'm giving my new ride a spin through CLT!

Matt

[moose135]

Depends on when you get in, Matt. I have an all day training class not too far from the airport that day. If it's a late afternoon flight, I may be able to get over to CLT.

[moose135]

Just a handful from the last week or so...

Matt, I went out on the 8th when training was done, got to CLT a little before 5pm, and caught a couple of AE arrivals. Either of these you?

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-22jXNGr/0/XL/JM_2013_05_08_N504AE_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-9dc7xwb/0/XL/JM_2013_05_08_N620AE_001-XL.jpg

If not, I'm sure I'll catch you one of these days. I've already got Futt and an old Pilot Training buddy who's an AirTran captain.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-wvRJJ89/0/XL/JM_2013_05_08_C-FZJA_001-XL.jpg

Sunday, we had nice weather, but they were using Rwy 36. That meant landing down the other end, and taking off past the overview. A lot of stuff went to the right side (away from us) but we did get this US A330 landing on the center.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-92nZf6b/0/XL/JM_2013_05_12_N271AY_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3FBvnh9/0/XL/JM_2013_05_12_N271AY_002-XL.jpg

We also had a Vision Air 734 drop in for a visit.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-fgpLrTw/0/XL/JM_2013_05_12_N732VA_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3dsTJ74/0/XL/JM_2013_05_12_N732VA_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-4M4tN9p/0/XL/JM_2013_05_12_N745VJ_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-8ZsJzc2/0/XL/JM_2013_05_12_N585AA_001-XL.jpg

[Delta777LR]

That Vision Air is a 733 not a 734.. nice shots though

[moose135]

Thanks, Sergio. I guess FlightAware had it wrong, they had it listed as a 734. The FAA database confirms that it is a -300.

[megatop412]

Glad the overview is open again. Nice catch of the Vision

[AA 777]

Thanks Moose, but we arrived just before 4pm in N520AE. Great pictures as always though. The CRJ will bring me through CLT more so I'll let you know when I'm back and hopefully we can get together.

[moose135]

Sorry I missed you Matt, but please do let me know when you'll be through again.

[moose135]

It's been a month since I've been out to the overview, what with being in NY and all, so a sunny, not so hot, Saturday afternoon was as good a reason as any for a spotting visit. For whatever reason, we had a bunch of Dash-8s landing 18C, so time to play with some panning shots...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-5VBr7bV/0/XL/JM_2013_06_05_N328EN_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jfZJxQD/0/XL/JM_2013_06_05_N337EN_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-GHcpLwP/0/XL/JM_2013_06_05_N336EN_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-96jdTzr/0/XL/JM_2013_06_05_N912HA_001-XL.jpg

Although we did get plenty of heavy metal as well...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-ZW95xhq/0/XL/JM_2013_06_05_N246AY_001-XL.jpg

[megatop412]

I like the crop on that last one

[threeholerglory]

nice job catching US....looks like you've had quite the Catch Day!!!

[moose135]

Just announced, the FAA has ordered CLT to stop using Rwy 5/23, which intersects Rwy 18L/36R.


The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered Charlotte Douglas International Airport to stop using one of its four runways during most of the day due to safety concerns, which could lead to delays and more noise over nearby neighborhoods.Officials first disclosed the new runway restrictions, which the FAA directed the airport to start on July 25, in a memo to City Council on Wednesday. The affected runway is known as Runway 5/23, which sits diagonal to the airport’s three parallel runways.That runway is used mainly for landing jets, and was often used to route approaching flights over the less-populated area west of the airport at night.The FAA was concerned that even though the center runway and Runway 5/23 don’t actually intersect, the flight paths of planes using the two runways can cross, causing what the memo called “safety concerns.”

Full story: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2013/08/08/4223460/faa-restricts-charlotte-douglas.html

Hopefully, that means rather than shots like this, we'll see those guys arriving on 18C.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3KLQhhJ/0/XL/JM_2012_09_22_Insel_Air_001-XL.jpg

[Kiffy]

Oh wow thats pretty crazy; never thought I'd see the day. I hope you're right, I've definitely lost a handful of nice planes to runway 23.
Insel Air is definitely on my CLT wish-list!

[moose135]

Coming to America! N288AY, US Airways' newest A330, arrived from Toulouse on her delivery flight today. Gotta love the new airplane smell!

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-hPn728v/0/XL/JM_2013_08_10_N288AY_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-5gHfVJ8/0/XL/JM_2013_08_10_N288AY_003-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Tp59Wtz/0/XL/JM_2013_08_10_N288AY_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-m8vKJCw/0/XL/JM_2013_08_10_N288AY_005-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-nm3Nn82/0/XL/JM_2013_08_10_N288AY_006-XL.jpg

[skyteam18]

Mmmmm... Look at those WHITE wheels.

Nice work on those Dash8s! Suspending ops on 23 will definitely force more Dash8 traffic over to 18C! Now hurry up November so I can come down and get my fill of Piedmont Dash Trash in the sweet light. :cool:

[wunaladreamin]

Nice stuff Moose!

[LGA777]

Moose I love the shots of US's newest A-330, glad you caught her delievery flight as this is the last A-330 delivery this year so could be the last A-330 delivery in that scheme. BTW I was impressed how quickly she was pressed into service, only two days later on Aug 12 she operated US 720 CLT-FCO to cover for an out of service A-330-300 stuck in FRA.

[moose135]

Thanks, Ron! I did see a couple of shots of her departing on that first revenue flight over on the CLT Spotters FB page.

Other than catching that A330 arrival, I hadn't been out to CLT in weeks. This evening, I took advantage of a break in the clouds for a quick trip - it's supposed to rain for most of the next week. When I got there, I discovered they were using Rwy 36L/C/R. Unfortunately, most arrivals were on 36L (out of sight behind the overview) and most departures were on 36R.

Not quite as new as N288AY, but this A321 is only about two months old.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-kSxFScC/0/XL/JM_2013_08_16_N154UW_001-XL.jpg

We were treated to an AA Mad Dog in all her glory!

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XkDTgGW/0/XL/JM_2013_08_16_N491AA_001-XL.jpg

If you get a heavy departing 36R, you can get some interesting shots - this is US 802, heading to Sao Paulo.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-BmWTmMt/0/XL/JM_2013_08_16_N248AY_001-XL.jpg

And US 730 off to London Heathrow.
http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-n3PJLPt/0/XL/JM_2013_08_16_N274AY_001-XL.jpg

[wunaladreamin]

Love the last two with the city in the background Moose.

[moose135]

Thanks, Kenny! Running some errands around town today, and I took advantage of a short break in the clouds to stop by the overview for a bit.

Another new jet - delivered to US last month.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-8RxXSRM/0/XL/JM_2013_08_18_N157UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-w84WQwR/0/XL/JM_2013_08_18_N765US_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-NCsrqzp/0/XL/JM_2013_08_18_N179UW_001-XL.jpg

[Aviation.High.Guy]

Great catches Moose! Sorry I didn't make it down to CLT last week. I was vacationing in Asheville and the day I set aside to do spotting the weather was awful. :( Catch you guys on my next trip.

[adscram14]

Went out just to see the AA 319, got there just in time.
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/September-2013/i-dL47ZG7/0/L/N8001Nfull-L.jpg

[wunaladreamin]

Ugh sharklets...so hideous. Nice catch Adam.

[moose135]

Nice catch, Adam. I'm out of town for another week, but I should be back when they start scheduled service with that thing.

[lijk604]

It looks like they forgot to finish the fuselage. Wayyyy to short for 'dem big sharkie things.

[moose135]

It's a cloudy Saturday, with on and off showers (more on than off this afternoon) but the Giants headed to town to play the Panthers on Sunday afternoon. Like last year, they flew in on a UAL 764, unfortunately they landed on Rwy 18L, so it was a reach from the overview.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-nfd4tP2/0/XL/JM_2013_09_21_N78060_001-XL.jpg

They parked down in the cargo area, and I headed over, hoping to catch them leaving the airplane. Problem is, the cargo area is on the exact opposite side of the airport from the overview, and following a Charlotte PD cruiser much of the way, I didn't make any time getting there. I did see their convoy of buses, with a PD escort, driving away. I settled for a couple of shots of the aircraft on the ramp.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-DHnPksG/0/XL/JM_2013_09_21_N78060_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-bzJxPsq/0/XL/JM_2013_09_21_N78060_003-XL.jpg

[moose135]

Took a ride to the Overview after work this afternoon. Ops were on 36C, so it was mainly departures going past.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-shf7F7T/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N157UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-5Hq7m9W/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N252AU_001-XL.jpg

I'd love to catch LH on 36C when they bring the A340 - I'd probably be shooting down on the aircraft when it goes by!

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-PGjtn5t/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_D-AIKQ_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-qbSRcLz/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_D-AIKQ_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-CV8JkBD/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N434US_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-VCkV7bX/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N537EA_001-XL.jpg

As Adam posted above, we now have the new AA A319 (with Sharklets!) operating into CLT. They started revenue service last week, and I finally had the chance to catch one.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-cxpfKDp/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N8001N_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xcqZtGB/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N8001N_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-VbnT6B9/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N8001N_003-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-PTFMfms/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N8001N_004-XL.jpg

The A319 may be the new kid on the block, but there's still some life left in this Old Dog...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-HDhZSLz/0/XL/JM_2013_09_27_N7547A_001-XL.jpg

[Aviation.High.Guy]

Nice stuff as always Moose. Those AA A319 shots are sweet!

[moose135]

Thanks, Don!

Not CLT, but the B-17 Memphis Belle is spending the weekend at nearby Concord Regional Airport (JQF) It's actually closer to my place than CLT, and home to much of the NASCAR Air Force, so I need to get over there a little more often.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-8x8NrRv/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_B-17_Memphis_Belle_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-ZbkvSjc/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_B-17_Memphis_Belle_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-RH5JPNj/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_B-17_Memphis_Belle_003-XL.jpg

[moose135]

Meanwhile, back at CLT...

I hadn't really planned on spending time at CLT today, but FlightAware was listing a FedEx 777 making a hop from ATL, which got the CLT spotter group excited. Turned out to be a false alarm, but while I was there, I caught these three TH-57C Sea Rangers (based on the Bell 206 Jet Ranger) out of TAW-5 in Florida.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-tvWKH8Q/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_TH-57C_162679_002-XL.jpg

At the overview, Southwest's Maryland One arrived. I think this may be the first WN special that I have caught - it's certainly the first time I've gotten one in CLT.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-4QLx3BH/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_N214WN_002-XL.jpg

Insel Air continues to mock me...arrived behind me on 36L the departed 36R. Fortunately I had the long lens on, but it's still a reach.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-5PRpvQf/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_PJ-MDC_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-PH983dm/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_N272AY_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-6Zkrj8g/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_N255AY_001-XL.jpg

New A321 for US, delivered three weeks ago.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-KQRTczk/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_N568UW_001-XL.jpg

How does an A340 climb? Get into ground effect then wait for the curvature of the Earth...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-KjqBsJq/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_D-AIFC_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-NfbHwrB/0/XL/JM_2013_09_28_D-AIFC_004-XL.jpg

[skyteam18]

Nice to see a quality shot of Insel in CLT! nicely done! ... but where are the quality dahs8 shots?! :-D

[moose135]

...but where are the quality dahs8 shots?! :-D
Here you go...departed on 36R, so it took every bit of the 400mm to get him.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-hL6P2pc/0/XL/JM_2013_10_04_N814EX_001-XL.jpg

It was a warm, sunny afternoon, and I slipped out of the office a little early - LH brought the A346, and CLT was departing Rwy 36!

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-FSjpbKR/0/XL/JM_2013_10_04_N281AY_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-cxCqGfN/0/XL/JM_2013_10_04_N281AY_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XJQVz8M/0/XL/JM_2013_10_04_N544UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-8vbfgQ4/0/XL/JM_2013_10_04_N718SW_001-XL.jpg

Yes, I know the guy in the Ops truck. No, he didn't stop by the overview to pick me up...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-s544p5D/0/XL/JM_2013_10_04_D-AIHR_002-XL.jpg

84 degrees, a heavy airplane, and the stunning climb performance of the A346 - put it all together, and you use most of the runway, and offer some good photo ops for those of us at the overview.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-6sJ67vS/0/XL/JM_2013_10_04_D-AIHR_005-XL.jpg

I was shocked this afternoon - for the first time since I've been down here spotting, the LH Lady wasn't out at the overview for the departure. I don't know if she was somewhere else, or if she was there for the arrival, but it sure seemed strange not having her accompanying the LH departure this afternoon.

[megatop412]

Great recent shots John. The Insel Air is a great capture. Get well soon, Lufthansa Lady! (I presume she reads this thread):cool:

[moose135]

An-124 arrived this afternoon, carrying a new tail assembly for a US Airways A321. They landed Rwy 36C, and there isn't a "usual" spot for those arrivals, so there was much discussion as to where we would try to shoot from...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-DZDSxxG/0/XL/JM_2013_10_20_An-124_RA-82044_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Q77vCWJ/0/XL/JM_2013_10_20_An-124_RA-82044_003-XL.jpg

[Chris S]

Great catch and nice shots on the An-124, Moose !! :cool:

[moose135]

The Antonov departed to Fort Bliss Tuesday afternoon...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-j9wD6bw/0/XL/JM_2013_10_22_Antonov_An-124_RA-82044_003-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-T35FS7X/0/XL/JM_2013_10_22_Antonov_An-124_RA-82044_004-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-RZJqRpF/0/XL/JM_2013_10_22_Antonov_An-124_RA-82044_007-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xQZBZzp/0/XL/JM_2013_10_22_Antonov_An-124_RA-82044_008-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-J9XHwFP/0/XL/JM_2013_10_22_Antonov_An-124_RA-82044_009-XL.jpg

[AA757]

Very Nice shots of the Big Bird Moose!


Rich B

[adscram14]

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/October-2013/i-hKvr8pF/0/L/RA-82044full-L.jpg
Better late than never...

[skyteam18]

Thanks for sharing that nice dash8 & Clt tower photo! I've shot 36R departures from the overlook too and I know what a stretch it can be with the lenses. But you came away with a nice photo!

Any news on 23 OPs? im still hoping to make a visit while 23 is shut down. Drink in all the 18C action from the overlook with 23 closed :)

[megatop412]

... but where are the quality dahs8 shots?! :-D

Why, they are all at PHL, sir:cool:

[moose135]

Any news on 23 OPs? im still hoping to make a visit while 23 is shut down. Drink in all the 18C action from the overlook with 23 closed :)
Rwy 23 can only be used late nights, and there aren't any plans to change that from what I've heard - the issue the FAA has is with the potential conflict if someone goes missed on 23 when there is a departure on 18C. That's not going to change. I don't know that we will ever see 23 operations during normal daytime hours.

[moose135]

Got home from a few days in Charleston this week - and no, I didn't do any spotting there - and spent a little time at the overview this afternoon.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Czq4qsh/0/XL/JM_2013_10_26_N105HQ_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-9k4HnXh/0/XL/JM_2013_10_26_N8001N_001-XL.jpg

Citation owned by the Coca Cola Bottling Company in Charlotte.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-CW32mN2/0/XL/JM_2013_10_26_N901FH_001-XL.jpg

Finally got some decent shots of the FedEx A300F.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XvQ9J2F/0/XL/JM_2013_10_26_N681FE_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-rNVTXxn/0/XL/JM_2013_10_26_N250AY_001-XL.jpg

I really like the reflections in the fuselage.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pQmLdWV/0/XL/JM_2013_10_26_N191UW_001-XL.jpg

Reports are LH switches to the A330 for the winter starting on Sunday.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-9rtrp3k/0/XL/JM_2013_10_26_D-AIHZ_001-XL.jpg

[AA757]

Excellent shots Moose!

Rich B

[adscram14]

Went out yesterday for the first time in awhile.

Eagles from the overlook
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-pbLZ5Ch/0/L/N709UWfull-L.jpg

A321 departing 36C
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-b2m8D6n/0/L/N561UWfull-L.jpg

Then I decided to try a new spot a fellow spotter found...

SWA arriving 36L
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-MN6djQg/0/L/N401WNfull-L.jpg

Followed by Star Alliance
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-NWR7ps9/0/L/N702UWfull-L.jpg

This is one of my favorite liveries on any plane, wow
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-SdT2wWz/0/L/N9004Ffull-L.jpg

Some West metal arriving
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-CQF7nmQ/0/L/N680AWfull-L.jpg

A319
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-v2TPDpB/0/L/N724UWfull-L.jpg

CLT running simultaneous 36R/36C/36L approaches
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-Xg74gPV/0/L/N834AWfull-L.jpg

Not too many of these left
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-Jgjg8Mg/0/L/N444USfull-L.jpg

7,000th Airbus
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/November-2013/i-3LNvLWF/0/L/N552UWfull-L.jpg

[moose135]

Eagles from the overlook...

A321 departing 36C...

Where were you? I shot both of those at the overlook yesterday as well! I need to check out Jim's new spot soon too.

[moose135]

It was a busy morning at CLT. Vice President Biden spent the night in Charlotte, and was due to leave around Noon. Also this morning, an Atlas Air 744F arrived. It was picking up relief supplies for the Philippines, arranged by Samaritan's Purse, an international relief organization headquartered near Charlotte.

Caught this NCANG C-130 departing while waiting on VPOTUS

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-N7sGtn5/0/XL/JM_2013_11_15_C-130H_93-1457_001-XL.jpg

Ugly, heat-hazed shot of the C-32 from across the runway...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pXdhJ5K/0/XL/JM_2013_11_15_C-32A_98-0002_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-KwvRXgf/0/XL/JM_2013_11_15_C-32A_98-0002_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-nxTsj2G/0/XL/JM_2013_11_15_B747F_N496MC_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-BVSZrpR/0/XL/JM_2013_11_15_B747F_N496MC_002-XL.jpg

[Derf]

Very Nice Moose

[moose135]

Thanks, Fred! Not the best conditions out there today, but sometimes you do what you have to...

[moose135]

All the really cool stuff came in yesterday, but the CLT Spotters Facebook group was going to get together at the overview today, so I spent a couple of hours out there, chasing some in and out sun...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-4H6fsnR/0/XL/JM_2013_11_16_N132HQ_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Jf6k6tB/0/XL/JM_2013_11_16_N534UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-JCMWqBV/0/XL/JM_2013_11_16_N509MJ_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-32VRCcp/0/XL/JM_2013_11_16_N7530_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-TtLKbhL/0/XL/JM_2013_11_16_N274AY_001-XL.jpg

New paint and an old radome...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-tBb6Pn2/0/XL/JM_2013_11_16_N505AE_001-XL.jpg

Delta 737-700, not often seen in these parts.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-kNGWZxj/0/XL/JM_2013_11_16_N303DQ_001-XL.jpg

This is N504MG, an old 727. Over the years, it has seen service with Frontier, Braniff, MGM Grand, and several other small operators, finishing up with Roush Racing. It's been parked on the cargo ramp at CLT for several years, and I've read that it was used for parts for the other Roush 727s. According to the FAA database, the registration expired at the end of September, and sometime between the Atlas 747 departing Friday evening, and late this afternoon, it was moved for the first time in ages. I wonder if it is finally the end of the road for this old gal?

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-qjFm9VZ/0/XL/JM_2013_11_16_N504MG_001-XL.jpg

[felipegcmh]

Nice shots.

That AmEagle CRJ looks like a clown.

[moose135]

It was a cloudy, rainy afternoon, but we were expecting a visit from a Delta 763, bringing the NE Patriots to town for the Monday Night Football game against the Panthers. We don't ever see anything that big from Delta in these parts, so there I was, shooting in the dark...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-JXwGDXS/0/XL/JM_2013_11_17_N128DL_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Ww8fRXC/0/XL/JM_2013_11_17_N128DL_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Rznt9JH/0/XL/JM_2013_11_17_N128DL_003-XL.jpg

[Pack11Heavy]

Great Stuff Moose but where are the pics of NC ANG Herc's thanks Derek

[GY757]

Nice shots CLT is a must on my radar

[moose135]

Short days and long work weeks don't make a good combination for spotting, but when it's 55F at 8pm, you head out to the Overview to see what you can do in the dark...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-N3ZZBXK/0/XL/JM_2013_12_20_N112US_001-XL.jpg

The light streaks are from a landing FedEx MD-10...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-LKQP8dH/0/XL/JM_2013_12_20_CLT_Night_002-XL.jpg

And here's the MD-10 unloading. FedEx brings this in for extra capacity during the holiday season.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XX8tK2v/0/XL/JM_2013_12_20_N312FE_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-w97xmWS/0/XL/JM_2013_12_20_N173US_001-XL.jpg

I tried to do a little panning...ISO 6400, 1/100 second, f/2.8...not spectacular.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-brKxnFs/0/XL/JM_2013_12_20_CLT_Night_003-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-sGWMzbf/0/XL/JM_2013_12_20_CLT_Night_005-XL.jpg

First shot of the night, and my favorite of the batch.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-vwQ2tqX/0/XL/JM_2013_12_20_N9010R_001-XL.jpg

[AA757]

Nice work on these night shots Moose, I love the AA baby bus as well....


Rich B

[Kiffy]

Great shots! I love the one with the city in the background. I had no idea the overlook was open after dark, is that always the case?

[Aviation.High.Guy]

Awesome night shots Moose!

[moose135]

Thanks, guys! Kiffy, the overview is open until 10:30pm every night. I was back again for a little bit last night - it was 68F at 8pm, and there had to be two dozen cars out there.

[adscram14]

Great shots, Moose. I'll have to join you one night. You planning on going out at all this week?

[moose135]

Thanks, Adam - I may go out later in the week, depending on weather. I thought about going up to the parking deck to shoot some of the Express ramp, but there were about a million cars trying to get to the terminal...holiday travel!

[Kiffy]

Thanks, guys! Kiffy, the overview is open until 10:30pm every night. I was back again for a little bit last night - it was 68F at 8pm, and there had to be two dozen cars out there.
Wow that's great news, I always thought it closed at dusk. I'll definitely have to give it a try at night!

[Smoketrails]

Last shot is stunning!

[moose135]

I was up before dawn to meet a certain nomadic photographer traveling through CLT, and while we didn't get too many photo ops, we did manage a few...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gPWVLh8/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N412UP_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Fv6ZkhT/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N375FE_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-25Z3VQw/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N918FJ_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-t6v3BVm/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N337EN_001-XL.jpg

Happy Holidays!

[Roush6NY]

Great shots Moose! Happy holidays my friend

[lijk604]

Interesting angles Moose. How much time did you have to shoot before you were shoo'ed away?

[MarkLawrence]

Love the UPS shot John!! Nice stuff!! Merry Christmas to you!

[moose135]

Thanks guys! John, the UPS and FedEx were just quick hits, 5 minutes or so at each spot. I've been down near where the UPS jet was a number of times before - the An-124 and Atlas 744 were both parked in the same general area, and never had a problem with PD. The Express ramp shots were from the top of one of the daily parking decks. Again, we weren't there more than 15 minutes or so, but the place was deserted, only a handful of cars up there, and no one bothered us. I've been up there a couple of times for something special, half hour or so each time, without any trouble.

Interestingly enough, Adam S. and I had an encounter with CMPD (Charlotte Mecklenberg Police Department) in a different spot this afternoon...I'll post about that in the Spotter Blotter.

[moose135]

After my airport visit this morning to meet up with Steve, I headed back this afternoon for a little Christmas Eve spotting. They were using the 36s, and Adam was out at a new spot some of the guys have been using. It's the road that runs parallel to the runway, where there is a hill near the touchdown zone that lets us get up near the height of the runway.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-WMXqHxN/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N567UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-d3FSsQV/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N112HQ_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-mPq7zxC/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N135HQ_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-cgKtxMG/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N570UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-tHS4S7D/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N195UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-cmPCG57/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N724UW_001-XL.jpg

A triple play!

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-rcccxGq/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N754UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pKX4mwF/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N7714B_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jHMFxGH/0/XL/JM_2013_12_24_N169UW_001-XL.jpg

[adscram14]

Some from me as well. Nice seeing John as always!

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-fjH9cNW/0/L/N710PSfull-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-fjH9cNW/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-PFgGx4J/0/L/N135HQfull-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-PFgGx4J/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-wPT462c/0/L/N724UWfull-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-wPT462c/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-pGrcDVG/0/L/N413AWfull-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-pGrcDVG/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-3dLWbCZ/0/L/N7714Bfull-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-3dLWbCZ/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-ZQmZt6B/0/L/N737USfull-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-ZQmZt6B/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-wNn5qn9/0/L/N921FJfull-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-wNn5qn9/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-CLWpNTb/0/L/N195UWfull-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-CLWpNTb/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-GLx8ZLp/0/L/N195UWfull2-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/December-2013/i-GLx8ZLp/A)

[moose135]

First spotting trip of the new year. Dropped in to the Overview to find CLT was operating on the 36s today, so I started out with a lap around the airport, stopping at the main FBO to grab a shot of N121DE, a Delta 763 that flew the San Fransisco 49ers in for their playoff game with the Panthers today. It should be a happy trip home after the Niners win.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-zcggvmP/0/XL/JM_2014_01_12_N121DE_001-XL.jpg

Back at the Overview for some of the comings and goings:

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-F5cqrGF/0/XL/JM_2014_01_12_N501AA_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-wHPMn3v/0/XL/JM_2014_01_12_N608SW_001-XL.jpg

When I first got to the Overview, I noticed nothing was arriving behind us on 36L, which is unusual. Taking a ride down and around that way, I saw a US Airways A320 stopped down at the north end of the runway, with a boarding stairs up to the aircraft, and a number of other vehicles around it.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-rhhpMDc/0/XL/JM_2014_01_12_N712US_001-XL.jpg

After at least an hour and a half (the time I was there) I saw the plane being towed back across 36C, onto the ramp, and down toward the US Airways maintenance hangars. Others reported seeing three or four buses cross the runway back and forth. I haven't heard anything yet, but I'm thinking they may have blown a tire on landing and stopped straight ahead. The pax were bused to the terminal, and after changing the tire, the plane towed back in. When it was towed in, several US ground vehicles followed behind, including one that looked like it might be towing a jack. That's the US Airways "Supertug" doing the towing.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-whcpwHx/0/XL/JM_2014_01_12_N712US_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-746nk26/0/XL/JM_2014_01_12_N712US_005-XL.jpg

[moose135]

The end of the line. With all withdrawn from scheduled service, this ended up being the last ever flight of a DC-9 by an American airline. It was flown from ATL to CLT, where it will be on display at the Carolinas Aviation Museum.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jxC3xtT/0/XL/JM_2014_01_23_N779NC_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-DHGK8Fm/0/XL/JM_2014_01_23_N779NC_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xHsz3KL/0/XL/JM_2014_01_23_N779NC_003-XL.jpg

[moose135]

We had another Atlas 744F in town today. They have become a frequent visitor to CLT in the past couple of months, mostly flying relief supplies donated by Samaritan's Purse, a North Carolina based humanitarian organization.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-LcqGtxd/0/XL/JM_2014_01_25_N409MC_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-b344M5N/0/XL/JM_2014_01_25_N409MC_003-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-M4NmctJ/0/XL/JM_2014_01_25_N409MC_004-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-X4SNPW5/0/XL/JM_2014_01_25_N409MC_005-XL.jpg

Over at the FBO, I came across this 727, N17773 operated by Monfort Aviation. They are flying the Chicago Bulls NBA team this season. The Bulls are in town to play the Charlotte Bobcats tonight.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-CjjCS8w/0/XL/JM_2014_01_25_N17773_001-XL.jpg

He's coming right at us! A gusty crosswind made for some interesting approaches...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-NL6jPK9/0/XL/JM_2014_01_25_N971TW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-WvnCFNG/0/XL/JM_2014_01_25_N971TW_002-XL.jpg

[adscram14]

Miserable day for spotting (cold, clouds, wind) until Atlas came, then the sun broke out. Nice seeing John as usual!

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-mhQhG6H/0/L/N742PS-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-mhQhG6H/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-6tvSXM6/0/L/N409MC-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-6tvSXM6/A)

[Kiffy]

Great job Moose getting the last ever Delta DC-9! That's great news that it's going to be staying at the Carolina Aviation Museum. I hope the cabin will be open for tours.

Nice catches of the 727 and Atlas 747 too. Interesting she is still wearing Qantas titles, looks like she hasn't operated for them since the end of December...

[moose135]

N700UW, most recently seen in Star Alliance colors, just returned from Roswell, the first US jet to get new AA colors applied. I missed the first flights into CLT on Thursday, but was able to catch it today. Arrived on 18L, but fortunately went out on 18C

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-vQ7PwKN/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N700UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-5KCpxfT/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N700UW_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-nN4GvQt/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N700UW_003-XL.jpg


The America West retro jet also made an appearance today. Again, it came in on 18L, but I waited it out, and was rewarded with an 18C departure.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gGGGx7p/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N828AW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-2XP86Db/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N828AW_002-XL.jpg

[Gintaras B.]

Very nice, bright colors....

[adscram14]

I always forget to post my stuff until Moose does.

Here are some of my recents:

New American A319
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-Xb2p4Cq/0/L/N9010R-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-Xb2p4Cq/A)

700UW on her 3rd revenue flight in AA colors to Atlanta
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-VNv7cMn/0/L/N700UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-VNv7cMn/A)

Seeing double
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-DLjsk7K/0/L/N700UW2-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-DLjsk7K/A)

[Gintaras B.]

I always forget to post my stuff until Moose does.

Here are some of my recents:


Seeing double
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-DLjsk7K/0/L/N700UW2-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/January-2014/i-DLjsk7K/A)

Very nice, just like brother and sister....

[moose135]

Stumbled upon N215WE, a 727-200 at CLT today. It arrived from Pontiac, MI and headed back out to Louisville, KY and Pontiac a few hours later.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-ZBLHt5c/0/XL/JM_2014_02_08_N215WE_002-XL.jpg

[adscram14]

Thanks to John for the heads up on the 727. I was able to get a few good hours in too today.

E170 arrival:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-vV3QSDm/0/L/N109HQ-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-vV3QSDm/A)

319 departure:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-CbLwBW5/0/L/N751UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-CbLwBW5/A)

Rare(ish) E190 arrival on 18C:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-6XnFGsS/0/L/N946UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-6XnFGsS/A)

Mad Dog off to DFW:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-w5hSnvb/0/L/N583AA-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-w5hSnvb/A)

Another E190 on the Center:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-WtfMDvn/0/L/N961UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-WtfMDvn/A)

Air Wisconsin departing 18L:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-4PwmNvt/0/L/N444ZW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-4PwmNvt/A)

The 727 I came for:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-Q7nCcD6/0/L/N215WE-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-Q7nCcD6/A)

Back to the Overlook and a US A321:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-Cwmt654/0/L/N555AY-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-Cwmt654/A)

A320 departure:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-zBtDzbQ/0/L/N668AW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-zBtDzbQ/A)

Mesa departure:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-gf5Fsmf/0/L/N906FJ-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-gf5Fsmf/A)

A 319 basking in the light:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-QwBkWH5/0/L/N757UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-QwBkWH5/A)

A 321 and the skyline:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-pKXvSJ4/0/L/N171US-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-pKXvSJ4/A)

An aging 734:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-MnHbzQj/0/L/N433US-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-MnHbzQj/A)

And another:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-ZTR6g7X/0/L/N427US-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-ZTR6g7X/A)

Another 319:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-xZ3SXTm/0/L/N749US-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-xZ3SXTm/A)

And another 321:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-VxxxXKw/0/L/N177US-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-VxxxXKw/A)

Smoking the right main:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-dJqk75g/0/L/N568UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-dJqk75g/A)

Southwest:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-vG4HKmB/0/L/N267WN-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-vG4HKmB/A)

It was nice getting some US frames I haven't seen as they begin to get repainted!

[AA757]

Nice shots Moose and Adam of the N700UW in AA colors.... waiting for it to get up to BOS....


Rich B

[moose135]

After being snowbound for four days, I needed some aviation therapy, so I spent a little time at the overlook on Saturday afternoon. They were using the 36s, so not the best configuration, but here are a few shots...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-v2rs7fb/0/XL/JM_2014_02_15_N956DN_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-nmf8Kmv/0/XL/JM_2014_02_15_N956DN_002-XL.jpg


Lufty was blowing clouds of dust with reverse thrust.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-BMC689P/0/XL/JM_2014_02_15_D-AIKE_002-XL.jpg

[moose135]

Sunday turned out to be an even nicer day that Saturday, and I spent most of the afternoon at CLT. Met some folks who know people we know and ended up shooting with them all afternoon. Nice folks, but abnormally interested in all the Dash-8s that came by.

I'm now 2 for 2 on the repainted US A319s.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-GPNVLjs/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N703UW_001-XL.jpg

Ron tells me this B762 will be heading to retirement soon. Was able to catch her arriving and departing again.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xKdggSG/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N245AY_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Vkc5p6v/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N245AY_002-XL.jpg

Seeing double...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-7S8RS2L/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N376SW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-czS53Bv/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N941UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-BBq3DRc/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N709UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-S3qw58z/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N76200_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pFgRXpG/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N328EN_001-XL.jpg

This guy ended up going around after a SW 737 took forever to get rolling on takeoff.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jNHg46F/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N573UW_001-XL.jpg

You can see the sun disappearing over the horizon in the reflection on the nose of this one.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-PgVQcmq/0/XL/JM_2014_02_16_N711UW_001-XL.jpg

[Aviation.High.Guy]

Great set John! Love that AA 319. I really have to make it down there one of these days.

[dashtrash]

Met some folks who know people we know and ended up shooting with them all afternoon. Nice folks, but abnormally interested in all the Dash-8s that came by.


Nice meeting you and Owen, Moose!

The "Pride of Piedmont" (N245AY) operating as Cactus 802 back to GRU
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7310/12590711833_a1b574854e_o.jpg

[moose135]

Good to meet you as well - that's a sweet shot of 245AY.

[LGA777]

Glad to see some nice shots of Ship 245 in what are likely her final days. I flew on her (when she was N603P) about 10 days before she entered normal revenue service for Piedmont from TPA-CLT as an equipment sub for a 727-200 for a crew familiarity flight and again on her first day of regular Revenue service and Piedmont's first day of 767 and widebody ops from CLT-BWI-TPA-CLT all in First Class back in June 1987. I will post on here when she is retired.

On the opposite end of the spectrum Moose's second to last shot of A-321 N573UW is currently the newest member of the US Fleet will verify at work when she entered service but first flight at the factory was on Jan 10,2014.

I continue to really enjoy this thread. Please keep the GREAT shots coming !

LGA777

[skyteam18]

Enjoyed Sunday afternoon at the overlook. It'd been nearly 20 months since I'd set foot at the overlook, so it was reassuring to see between 40-60 people out enjoying the day watching planes, singing/weeping at certain planes, and letting the kids run wild. Good to meet ya Mr. Moose. I'm sure eventually we'll cross paths again at CLT.

Moose: The blur on those props makes me melt. Nicely done. Also I have to point out what a nice photo you captured of 757 on short short final. My attempt was foiled by so much barbwire and I'm not sure I'll have much to salvage from that arrival. So, terrific photo!

DashTrash: Why upload a photo of the 762? I wanna see summa DAT DAySH!


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7332/12613517984_689bc43f29_o.jpg
Er-one was lookin at the DASH http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/smileys/free-random-smileys-260.gif (http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/facebook-smileys.html) "Dayyummmmm! Look at that BLUE DASH, son!"
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5530/12613114215_2ca543b42b_o.jpg

Nice Whiskey, just nice.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3667/12613114605_ea2f66a89d_b.jpg

Obligatory photo of the ex-Pride of Piedmont (N603P)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7292/12613217813_14844bbe04_b.jpg

Dude behind us in his minivan for about an hour.
http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/smileys/smoking-030.gif (http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/facebook-smileys.html)

Anyone else notice what's wrong here?
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3668/12613218053_928aa42071_b.jpg

HUUURRRRRRR!
https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRN_Do_R3eV8FIHGCzSOESsj0ZZica4N DYWyiZxq_VzGeZxXRYc
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2877/12613115255_73975473c7_b.jpg

Annnd that's enough fun for me. Back to work. Adios!

[moose135]

Beautiful afternoon on Saturday brought out a huge crowd to the overlook, and a certain Dash-8 pilot made an appearance.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-v2vJr79/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N327EN_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-hVk5dfR/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N327EN_004-XL.jpg

LH arrived and departed on 36C for a change!

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XxkjwmF/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_D-AIKE_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-PNHxmXM/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_D-AIKE_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-rBbPkZB/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_D-AIKE_003-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-MJ4nZNZ/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N245AY_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-XPxJKh6/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N333EN_001-XL.jpg

Cessna Citation 560XL owned by the Harris Teeter Supermarket company, headquartered in suburban Charlotte.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-3zkPWtg/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N533CC_001-XL.jpg

FedEx A300 arrived just before sunset.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-KtkLqc9/0/XL/JM_2014_02_02_N652FE_001-XL.jpg

[adscram14]

It was a crazy day at the Overlook--must have been 40 cars there and a bunch of guys from Plane Spotting CLT were there. I'll leave most of the US stuff out of this post:

GoJet:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-s6nv3RZ/0/L/N354CA-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-s6nv3RZ/A)

AA:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-fcrh2b8/0/L/N571AA-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-fcrh2b8/A)

Southwest:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-JFcHmmM/0/L/N951WN-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-JFcHmmM/A)

Harris Teeter jet:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-cv28c3h/0/L/N533CC-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-cv28c3h/A)

Republic with the city:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-ngFZH7d/0/L/N115HQ-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-ngFZH7d/A)

US B734:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-BZNd6vw/0/L/N435US-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-BZNd6vw/A)

PSA--I am trying to find new angles to shoot this at because I keep getting rejected at JP for having similar shots:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-KcMHRw9/0/L/N742PS-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-KcMHRw9/A)

SWA again:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-nQpVHc7/0/L/N951WN2-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-nQpVHc7/A)

US 319:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-dp4t5VP/0/L/N722US-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-dp4t5VP/A)

AA:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-6Hj5Lr2/0/L/N571AA2-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-6Hj5Lr2/A)

Allegheny VistaJet:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-nKPpzMR/0/L/N745VJ-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-nKPpzMR/A)

333 from FRA:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-kzPnRtV/0/L/N275AY-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-kzPnRtV/A)

762 from Sao Paulo:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-Sv6xRLN/0/L/N245AY-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-Sv6xRLN/A)

Delta to Atlanta:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-6cVPGwn/0/L/N929DN-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-6cVPGwn/A)

Eagle:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-ppLJtST/0/L/N530EA-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-ppLJtST/A)

Lufthansa from MUC:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-rWgM2pd/0/L/D-AIKE-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-rWgM2pd/A)

2 different kinds of birds:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-W5Bc2rW/0/L/N963TW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-W5Bc2rW/A)

Just after Illinois One overflew CLT at 40,000 feet, this lovely blue bird arrived:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-Sd9MSDk/0/L/N749SW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-Sd9MSDk/A)

332 from CUN:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-KT3Z8FS/0/L/N287AY-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-KT3Z8FS/A)

PSA:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-rSm95Rm/0/L/N258PS-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-rSm95Rm/A)

More Eagle action:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-9PLHxVB/0/L/N601DW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-9PLHxVB/A)

ExpressJet:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-xjsPWnb/0/L/N13968-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-xjsPWnb/A)

US 321:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-4GhBh2w/0/L/N185UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-4GhBh2w/A)

Delta MD milliseconds before touchdown:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-jSFpmJm/0/L/N934DN-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-jSFpmJm/A)

US 321 and the city:
http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-fZCJ2xS/0/L/N568UW2-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014/i-fZCJ2xS/A)

Hope you all enjoyed the set. The full set is available at http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/February-2014

[moose135]

With another 70 degree afternoon, and a rain delay at the Daytona 500, I spent a little time at CLT again today.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-69PxDm6/0/XL/JM_2014_02_23_N757UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-JBkPJQF/0/XL/JM_2014_02_23_N733UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-WrN98pR/0/XL/JM_2014_02_23_N1116W_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-76NQbDD/0/XL/JM_2014_02_23_N328EN_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-QdcfrMn/0/XL/JM_2014_02_23_D-AIKP_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-g7MBGhM/0/XL/JM_2014_02_23_N133HQ_001-XL.jpg

Caution wake turbulence behind the departing Piper...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-jZCFL4m/0/XL/JM_2014_02_23_N30173_001-XL.jpg

[skyteam18]

Nice shot of the blue dash N328EN there moose!

[moose135]

Nice shot of the blue dash N328EN there moose!
Thank you! That was 1/60 second, handheld at 400mm... :cool:

Stopped by CLT after work this afternoon, as there was a National Airlines 757 at the FBO. I heard it's a NASCAR charter for Sunday's race in Phoenix.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-b2RHzsf/0/XL/JM_2014_02_28_N176CA_001-XL.jpg

And a quick stop at the Overlook netted N702UW, the latest US A319 to receive AA colors.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pZXM7Rv/0/XL/JM_2014_02_28_N702UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-c7kh8j9/0/XL/JM_2014_02_28_N702UW_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-wmbzFKB/0/XL/JM_2014_02_28_N702UW_003-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Cfj7cHS/0/XL/JM_2014_02_28_N255AY_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-pPwNNf5/0/XL/JM_2014_02_28_N255AY_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-G7fRrpj/0/XL/JM_2014_02_28_N255AY_003-XL.jpg

[adscram14]

Some highlights from this afternoon. I now have all 4 new AA birds.

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-CXCBPTD/0/L/N135HQ-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-CXCBPTD/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-qpjcTLm/0/L/N702UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-qpjcTLm/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-4Bsh9Xc/0/L/N744P-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-4Bsh9Xc/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-HLDSXxC/0/L/N703UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-HLDSXxC/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-gTMnkVr/0/L/N701UW-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/March-2014/i-gTMnkVr/A)

[moose135]

I must have just missed you yesterday, Adam, I went down to CLT for a bit later in the afternoon.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-9QSvr4L/0/XL/JM_2014_03_10_N936UW_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gMRzP4W/0/XL/JM_2014_03_10_N249AU_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Hd3nCXp/0/XL/JM_2014_03_10_N103US_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-VN9BLq5/0/XL/JM_2014_03_10_Moonshot_001-XL.jpg

Today, I was leaving the office and checked FlightAware, and saw the FedEx DC-10 was due in at 6:05. Ran on down, and it was the second arrival after I got to the Overview...

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-ptmmtsj/0/XL/JM_2014_03_11_N320FE_001-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Ct6n85F/0/XL/JM_2014_03_11_N935UW_002-XL.jpg

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-26k5qcS/0/XL/JM_2014_03_11_N330EN_001-XL.jpg

Was very surprised when I heard this guy check in for 18C - they usually land on the left side.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-bHXBGgp/0/XL/JM_2014_03_11_N273JB_002-XL.jpg

[Chris S]

Moose, that moon shot is very cool !! Nice catch ! :cool:

[moose135]

It didn't look like it was going to be a good spotting day Saturday, but Mike Scuderi let me know he would be through CLT, and I wanted to see if I could get a shot of him. It was overcast most of the day, with on and off rain, some of it heavy. Got out to the overview later in the afternoon, and while there was still some rain, there were some holes beginning to develop in the overcast.

No, this isn't Mike...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-v97fVrF/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N14991_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-wKbwCHH/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N767UW_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-C6Z5H3w/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N282AY_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-xqH7DNf/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N743FD_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-tZpKW4w/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N261PS_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-NHpqCQZ/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N908FJ_001-XL.jpg

US A330 sucking the moisture out of the runway.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-dbgPwTx/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N281AY_002-XL.jpg

Florida One landed on 18R in the middle of a rain shower. When the sun came out, it departed on 18L...

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-mCpRQRw/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N945WN_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-R5MCwfX/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_CLT_001-XL.jpg

Here's Mike - as they taxi to 18L for departure. :-(

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-KppVfv7/0/XL/JM_2014_03_29_N14953_001-XL.jpg

[threeholerglory]

Awesome work Moose and thanks for coming out for me! Unfortunately we were number 20 something for departure and they wouldn't let us go off 18C. Next time we'll use our collective bargaining powers.

[moose135]

If I realized how long the line was, I would have tried to get over to the cargo area - we can get some departures out of there, but I figured I'd never make it in time.

[Aviation.High.Guy]

Great shots! Nice catch with Fla One

[moose135]

When I left the office tonight, it was 80 degrees and sunny, and I needed to get to the overview for a little shooting. Mostly, it was an excuse to try out the latest...

http://www.moose135photography.com/photos/i-7SBL2nP/0/L/i-7SBL2nP-L.jpg

N291AY is US Airways' latest A330, delivered just two weeks ago - it still has that new airplane smell.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-QhGvpfC/0/XL/JM_2014_04_02_N291AY_002-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-G4rbMdP/0/XL/JM_2014_04_02_N291AY_003-XL.jpg

Frontier brings an airplane with a moose on it (!) and tower has them land on Rwy 23 - when there was nothing at all happening on 18C. :mad:

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-wz9MFmx/0/XL/JM_2014_04_02_N954FR_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-MQfQrhf/0/XL/JM_2014_04_02_N565UW_001-XL.jpg

With the start of the 3-day LH pilot strike, they cancelled Wednesday's and Thursday's flights, and left an A340 parked on the cargo ramp.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-gB6pjDr/0/XL/JM_2014_04_02_D-AIFF_001-XL.jpg

[steve1840]

Looks like that new rig is working wuite well for you. Excellent work Moose.

Also, I thought CLT wasn't using 5-23 any longer.....

[moose135]

Also, I thought CLT wasn't using 5-23 any longer.....
They started using it again a couple of weeks ago, but they have increased spacing all around - now it seems every other departure on 18C gets a "line up and wait" until traffic on final for 23 lands to avoid potential conflicts from a go around. That was not done in the past. Also, I've heard that when someone is cleared for takeoff on 18L with traffic inbound to 23, they have something like 15-20 seconds to start rolling, or they will have takeoff clearance cancelled.

[NickPeterman]

Always great stuff, Moose! Love that A330 rolling with the city in the background.

[moose135]

The United A320 retrojet visited CLT today. Wasn't able to get out of work in time to catch the arrival, but did get a few of the departure. CLT was on 36 this afternoon, limiting what we could get, but it's the first time I've seen it, so I take what I can get.

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-RQ7d3HW/0/XL/JM_2014_04_08_N475UA_001-XL.jpg

http://www.moose135photography.com/Airplanes/Airliners-and-Airport-Spotting/Charlotte-Douglas-Airport/i-Vw2m6jb/0/XL/JM_2014_04_08_N475UA_003-XL.jpg

[Gintaras B.]

Nice...I hope to catch this one someday...It's always better to have something than nothing at all...

[TJK]

Love it when they bust out the retro looks. Wish more with some retro schemes would come to JFK.

[adscram14]

IL-72 came in today. I'll post the rest of the shots from today later today or this weekend.

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/April-2014/i-KMWrqC9/0/L/RA-769522-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/April-2014/i-KMWrqC9/A)

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/April-2014/i-LJhZdh3/0/L/RA-76952-L.jpg (http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT/April-2014/i-LJhZdh3/A)

[TJK]

Wow! Very nice on the IL.

[moose135]

IL-72 came in today.
Il-76, but who's counting? :tongue:

Glad you were able to make out, Adam. Unfortunately, I was stuck in the office today.

[adscram14]

Thought one thing, typed another. Lol. Hope to see you out for the next good one!

[xrbm14]

Hello guys,

My first post here. Let me congratulate you all for the wonderful pictures taken at this arport :smile:

I have plans to go on a quick visit to CLT, mainly to photograph US Airway's A330-300s before they get painted in the AA livery which I don't know when it is going to start happening. If you can recommend me a date (month) to visit CLT keeping in mind that my main reason for going is aircraft photography, what would it be? When is more probable to have clear blue skies during the afternoon? My visit is going to be about 4 days at the most unfortunately :frown:

Also, are there any good spots for taking pictures during the mornings? As I understand the Overlook is great, but only works for afternoons.

@moose135, I sent you a PM a couple of days ago, but my account wasn't active, so not sure if it went through.

Thanks in advance.
Regards!

[adscram14]

Hey xrbm! Welcome to NYCA! Take a look at the link below. I've created a comprehensive spotting map for CLT. I'd come in the summer when the days are the longest. You'll have good light at the overlook from 1PM-sunset.

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT

Please feel free to ask us any questions. CLT is very spotter friendly and you should be able to get most of the US east fleet in a few days.

[felipegcmh]

Hey xrbm! Welcome to NYCA! Take a look at the link below. I've created a comprehensive spotting map for CLT. I'd come in the summer when the days are the longest. You'll have good light at the overlook from 1PM-sunset.

http://asheinhaus.smugmug.com/Aviation/CLT

Please feel free to ask us any questions. CLT is very spotter friendly and you should be able to get most of the US east fleet in a few days.

How is late May? I'm thinking about going there during Memorial Day weekend +/- 1 day.