Sydney Airport - Observation Deck Closure

[Sydney Airport]

As of Monday, 3 March 2014, Sydney Airport’s observation deck will be closed.

Members of the public can view the airfield from the Rydges hotel at T1.

Other public plane spotting locations can also be found at:

• 25 Threshold;
• Lady Robinson’s Beach "The Beach";
• Hammond Place;
• Qantas Drive; and
• Sheps Hill (Tower Mound).

[Sarah C]

Thats disappointing news - I assume this is permanent? What will happen to the deck now?

[John Thoroughgood]

Would sincerely appreciate knowing the reason why.

[Kurt A]

Hi all,

The ongoing deterioration of the Observation Deck's roof and support beams by way of corrosion is now a safety concern which has lead to its closure. There is no word on its restoration or any future development plans.

So for now, unfortunately we will have to sit tight until Sydney Airport releases more information regarding this site.

http://www.sydneyairport.com.au/find...C167708A744%7D

[Sarah C]

Thanks for the details Kurt

[Sydney Airport]

The observation deck will be closed permanently.

Sydney Airport understands that the deck is popular with the aviation community, however this decision has been made for operational reasons and Sydney Airport is exploring a range of potential uses for the area.

Of course, there are still public areas from which to view the airfield, including the Rydges hotel at T1 and the public plane spotting locations listed on our website.

The decision to close the observation deck was not taken lightly and we are currently reviewing other options that would enable a unique experience overlooking the runway. If you have any suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact me via email (yssy.planespotter@syd.com.au).

We value our local plane spotters and will work to ensure you continue to have access to the airport through airport tours and competitions. For example, we recently partnered with the YSSY Forum to provide an opportunity to photograph the arrival of Sichuan Airlines in December.

If you wish to sign up to any updates or announcements for future airfield opportunities please sign up at the following address here

[Kurt A]

Now in mainstream media:

http://www.ausbt.com.au/sydney-airpo...servation-deck


http://australianaviation.com.au/201...deck-to-close/

[John Thoroughgood]

Thanks so much Kurt.

Curious regarding Rydges hotel, I was under the impression that one had to book an airside room to view the airfield. Is there now another option?

Regards John

[Matthew Chisholm]

Safety concerns, operational reasons and now exploring a range of potential uses for the area. Meh.

[Justin L]

While I understand and respect SYD's decision from a business/operational standpoint, you used to get a good view from the T1 food court too, but the renovations a few years back with the airside connecting walkway now between the food court and windows have taken that away also. No more airside tours, now no observation deck. All the so called public viewing areas are not part of the Sydney Airport facilities. Still some good views airside within all three terminals, but nothing available landside...