Best Spotting Locations at LAX for Capturing Heavy Aircraft

Hey fellow spotters! I'm planning a trip to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) soon and I'm particularly interested in capturing some of the heavy aircraft operations. I've heard that LAX is one of the best places for spotting wide-bodies like the Boeing 777, the Airbus A380, and even the 747 when they're around.

For those who've been there, what are your favorite spots at LAX for getting the best views and shots of these giants? I've heard about the In-N-Out Burger on Sepulveda Boulevard, but are there any other spots that offer a good angle, especially for takeoffs and landings?

Also, what lenses do you recommend for this kind of spotting? I'm currently using a Canon EOS 70D with a 70-200mm lens, but I'm considering renting a longer lens for the trip.

Looking forward to your tips and maybe bumping into some of you at the airport! Safe spotting everyone!

The In-N-Out Burger is definitely iconic for spotting at LAX, especially for arrivals on Runway 24R. Another great spot is Clutter's Park near Imperial Hill, which offers a fantastic view of the south complex and is perfect for departures and arrivals, especially on the 25s. If you're hoping to catch some takeoffs, you might try the parking garages inside the airport. They provide a higher vantage point but will require some patience and timing due to security and traffic.

Regarding your lens, a 70-200mm is decent, but renting a 100-400mm lens could give you more flexibility, especially for shots further away or tighter framing of those big birds. Hope you have a great time spotting at LAX!

If you're looking to capture takeoffs and landings of heavy aircraft, you might also want to consider the Proud Bird Restaurant on Aviation Boulevard. It offers a different perspective and is great for shots of aircraft taxiing and taking off from the south runways. For better reach, renting a longer lens like the Canon 100-400mm could be helpful, especially for runway operations further away. Another tip is to check the LAX runway use schedule, as certain runways are preferred for departures or arrivals. This can help you plan your spotting locations accordingly. Safe travels and happy spotting!