For Cairnlea resident Victor Pody, the world of aviation isn’t just about planes taking off and landing. Victor’s fascination with aviation traces back to his childhood, where the magic of watching planes gracefully soar through the sky left an indelible mark. However, it was a family visit to Melbourne Airport that truly ignited the spark.
“The rush of excitement as the planes roared by, the incredible designs and colour schemes – it was simply captivating. From that moment on, I was hooked,” Victor said.
“Plane spotting became a way for me to immerse myself in the world of aviation, to witness the sheer power and elegance of these incredible machines up close.”
When asked about his favourite aircraft, Victor shares his deep admiration for the Antonov 225. This colossal aircraft, the world’s largest, holds a special place in his heart. Beyond its size and power, Victor appreciates the Antonov 225’s role in humanitarian missions.
“Just the thought of witnessing this behemoth taking flight is enough to send shivers down my spine. But it’s not just its impressive size that captivates me,” he said.
“Its ability to transport oversized cargo, like medical supplies or emergency equipment, to remote and inaccessible locations is truly remarkable. Knowing that this aircraft has contributed to making a positive impact on people’s lives makes me even more fond of it.”
Victor’s favourite spotting location in Melbourne is Operations Road at Melbourne Airport, “an aviation enthusiasts dream come true”.
“What makes it ideal is the proximity to the runway, allowing you to witness the impressive power and grace of these magnificent aircraft up close. The spot also provides an unobstructed view, giving you the perfect opportunity to photograph planes from various angles,” he said.
As an experienced spotter, Victor said his advice for aspiring spotters is to consider your budget, level of commitment, and the specific aspects of aviation that ‘thrill’ you.
“If you’re just starting out, investing in a good DSLR camera with a zoom lens will help you get started. Remember, the most important gear is your passion for planes – capturing those breath-taking moments is what truly makes plane spotting an exciting hobby,” he said.
For those new to plane spotting, Victor emphasises finding a great location near an airport, familiarising yourself with flight schedules, and engaging with the vibrant online community. Whether using binoculars or a camera, the key is to let passion and curiosity guide the journey into the exciting world of aviation.
“Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, snacks, and chairs for comfortable viewing.”
Victor’s passion led him to establish the Melbourne Aircraft Spotters Group, a vibrant community with almost 6000 members, where members can share their love for planes and discuss aviation-related topics.
“The community within our group is truly something special. It is filled with dedicated individuals who are extremely passionate about aviation. Whether they are aspiring pilots, avid plane spotters, or aviation enthusiasts, everyone shares a common love for all things aviation,” he said.
“Whether you’re an experienced spotter or simply curious about airplanes, our Melbourne Aircraft Spotters Group warmly invites you to join us in celebrating the beauty and marvel of aviation.”
Hannah Hammoud
