Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA)

For avgeeks, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA/EGNM) is an underrated gem in the UK’s planespotting landscape, offering a unique blend of regional charm, diverse traffic, and breathtaking views from its elevated perch. Situated at 681 feet above sea level, the highest airport in England, LBA serves as Yorkshire’s gateway, handling over 4 million passengers annually in its pre-COVID peak. As a hub for Jet2.com and a base for Ryanair, TUI, and others, it delivers a steady stream of Boeing 737s, Airbus A320s, and occasional surprises like bizjets and diverted heavies. Its compact single runway (14/32) and spotter-friendly locations, from the iconic Cemetery Road to the Multiflight Café, make it a haven for enthusiasts wielding DSLRs, scanners, and tracking apps. With a storied history tied to WWII Lancaster production and Concorde visits, Leeds Bradford is a must-visit for avgeeks craving an intimate, high-altitude spotting experience. This 12,000-word guide dives deep into LBA’s planespotting scene, packed with technical details, insider tips, and the passionate tone that fuels aviation obsession.

Overview: Why Leeds Bradford Airport?

Leeds Bradford Airport, nestled between the vibrant cities of Leeds and Bradford, is a regional powerhouse with a knack for punching above its weight. Its elevated position in the Yorkshire hills offers dramatic vistas of aircraft slicing through the often-blustery skies, making every landing and takeoff a spectacle. As Jet2.com’s headquarters, LBA is dominated by their B737 fleet, but it also attracts Ryanair’s B737s, TUI’s B787s, and new routes to Morocco by both Jet2 and Ryanair, introduced in 2024. The airport’s traffic, while primarily short-haul to Europe, includes seasonal charters, general aviation (GA), and rare diversions from nearby Manchester or Doncaster Sheffield (closed in 2022). Spotting locations like Cemetery Road and Yeadon Tarn provide close-up runway action, while the Multiflight Café offers a cozy vantage point with a cuppa in hand. LBA’s WWII roots, including Avro’s massive aircraft factory, and its history of Concorde visits (notably in 1986, drawing 70,000 spectators) add a rich historical layer. Whether you’re logging registrations or chasing a crosswind landing shot, Leeds Bradford delivers a uniquely Yorkshire spotting experience.

Best Spotting Locations

Leeds Bradford’s spotting spots are a mix of windswept perimeter points, family-friendly cafes, and scenic parks, each offering distinct angles on runway, taxiway, and apron action. Below are the top five locations, with coordinates, accessibility, photo tips, and comfort details tailored for avgeeks.

1. Cemetery Road (Runway 14 Threshold)

• Coordinates: 53.8675°N, 1.6600°W
• Why It’s Great: Cemetery Road is LBA’s premier spotting spot, especially during Runway 14 operations (60% of the time, due to prevailing winds). Positioned just 50–75 yards from the runway threshold, it offers heart-pounding views of landings and takeoffs, with Jet2 B737-800s and Ryanair B737 MAX 8-200s roaring overhead. The elevated terrain provides unobstructed sightlines, perfect for capturing touchdown shots or smoky tire marks in crosswinds, a frequent treat given LBA’s exposed location. You can also see taxiway Alpha and parts of the Multiflight apron, where GA and bizjets park. This spot is a magnet for hardcore spotters and photographers.
• Accessibility: Drive to Cemetery Road via the A658 (free parking on verges, but limited; arrive by 6:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot). Public transport: Bus 737/747 from Leeds city center (20 minutes, £3–£5) to Yeadon, then a 10-minute walk. From LBA terminal, it’s a 15-minute walk or £5 taxi. Open 24/7, but daylight (6 AM–8 PM in summer) is best for photography. Note: The airport urges spotters to avoid sitting on cemetery walls or entering the adjacent Yeadon Cemetery out of respect for the local community.
• Photo Tips: Use a 70–200mm lens for frame-filling landing shots; 100–400mm for taxiways or distant Multiflight apron action. Morning light (6–9 AM in summer) is ideal for Runway 14 arrivals, with the sun behind you for vibrant liveries like Jet2’s red tail. Crosswinds (common at LBA) create dynamic crab-angle shots—use 1/1000s+ shutter speed and burst mode. Afternoon haze can be an issue in summer; evenings offer dramatic golden-hour shots. A 2–3-foot ladder helps clear low fences or bushes. For video, a gimbal stabilizes tracking of fast-moving B737s. Long exposures (1–2s) at dusk capture light trails from departing jets.
• Comfort & Facilities: No facilities, so bring a folding chair, snacks, water, and weather gear (LBA’s high altitude means strong winds and rain). Hardcore spotters thrive here, but it’s less family-friendly due to exposure and lack of amenities. Security is minimal, but stay on public land and avoid cemetery grounds to respect locals. Kid-friendly for short visits if supervised, but the terrain can be uneven.
• Hazards & Etiquette: Watch for muddy patches and nettles in summer. Respect the cemetery by avoiding walls or gravesites, as this has caused local complaints. Be cautious of traffic on Cemetery Road when crossing to vantage points. Security patrols are rare but may question large camera setups—be polite and keep lenses pointed at aircraft, not infrastructure.

2. Yeadon Tarnfield Park

• Coordinates: 53.8640°N, 1.6800°W
• Why It’s Great: Yeadon Tarn, a scenic nature park just south of the runway, offers elevated views of Runway 14/32 arrivals and departures, with aircraft like Jet2 B737s and TUI B787s passing 100–150 yards overhead. The open park setting is ideal for families, combining plane spotting with walking paths and a lake for sailing activities. It’s a relaxed spot for casual avgeeks or those with kids, with clear sightlines to the runway and partial views of taxiway Bravo. The park’s elevation enhances photo ops, especially for dramatic crosswind landings.
• Accessibility: Drive to Cemetery Road (free parking near Yeadon Tarn, 17 hectares, off the A658). Public transport: Bus 737/747 from Leeds to Yeadon (20 minutes), then a 5-minute walk. From LBA terminal, it’s a 10-minute walk or £4 taxi. Open 24/7, with best spotting from 6 AM–7 PM in summer. Paths are wheelchair-accessible, making it inclusive for all spotters.
• Photo Tips: Use a 100–300mm lens for landings and takeoffs; 200–400mm for taxiway shots. Morning light favors Runway 14 arrivals; afternoons suit Runway 32 departures (avoid backlighting 2–4 PM). Shoot from elevated areas near the lake for clean backgrounds. Crosswinds make for striking crab-angle shots—use 1/1250s shutter speed. Tripods are useful for evening light trails (1–3s exposures). Heat haze is minimal due to LBA’s elevation.
• Comfort & Facilities: The park has benches, picnic areas, and a small café nearby (Yeadon Tarn Café, open 9 AM–4 PM, £3–£8 for snacks). Restrooms are limited, so plan ahead. Family-friendly with a playground and sailing lake, ideal for mixed groups. Security is nonexistent, but stay on public paths to avoid private land.
• Hazards & Etiquette: Uneven paths and wet grass can be slippery—wear sturdy shoes. Respect park users (walkers, anglers) by keeping equipment compact. Avoid blocking paths with tripods. No security issues, but be mindful of local residents’ privacy near the park’s edges.

3. Multiflight Café Bar (Southside Aviation Facility)

• Coordinates: 53.8670°N, 1.6650°W
• Why It’s Great: The Multiflight Café Bar, located at the Southside Aviation Facility, is a spotter’s dream, offering floor-to-ceiling views of Runway 14/32 and the adjacent apron, where GA, helicopters, and bizjets like Cessna Citations park. You can sip coffee while watching Jet2 B737s taxi or a Multiflight Piper PA-28 take off, just 100 yards away. The café’s relaxed vibe, with indoor and outdoor seating, makes it perfect for families, casual spotters, or avgeeks wanting comfort. It’s open to the public, not just pilots or trainees, and is a hub for Yorkshire’s spotting community.
• Accessibility: Drive to Southside via the A658 (free parking at Multiflight, LS19 7UG). Public transport: Bus 737/747 to Yeadon, then a 10-minute walk, or £5 taxi from LBA terminal. Open 8:30 AM–3:30 PM daily, with extended hours for events (check www.multiflight.com). Entry is free; take a car park ticket and pay by card at the exit machine.
• Photo Tips: Use a 70–200mm lens for runway action through café windows; 100–300mm for apron shots. Indoor shooting minimizes glare, but outdoor tables offer better angles for landings. Morning light (7–10 AM) is best for Runway 14; afternoons favor Runway 32. Use 1/1000s+ shutter speed for jets; 1/500s for slower GA props. Tripods are tricky indoors—use a monopod or handheld setup. Evening shots from the car park capture light trails (2–4s exposures).
• Comfort & Facilities: The café serves hot meals (full English, £8; cakes, £3), coffee, and drinks, with competitive prices and a family-friendly vibe (kids love the runway views). Restrooms, Wi-Fi, and ample seating make it ideal for long stays. Outdoor tables are exposed, so bring layers. The Square Monkey bar area adds a cozy touch for adults. Highly rated on Tripadvisor for its food and views, it’s a spotter’s social hub.
• Hazards & Etiquette: Be discreet with large camera setups indoors to avoid disturbing diners. Respect staff requests to keep walkways clear. Security is relaxed, but avoid pointing lenses at Multiflight’s training or maintenance areas. The café is kid-friendly, with space for young spotters to enjoy the view without disturbing others.

4. The Pan (Runway 32 Approach)

• Coordinates: 53.8600°N, 1.6500°W
• Why It’s Great: Known as “The Pan” for its circular tarmac area used for snow-clearing vehicles, this perimeter spot near the Runway 32 threshold is a hardcore spotter’s delight during northerly operations (40% of the time). You’re 75–100 yards from the runway, capturing dramatic approach shots of Ryanair B737s or TUI B787s in crosswinds. The spot offers views of final approaches, taxiing aircraft on Bravo, and the main apron, though Multiflight’s apron is obscured. It’s a quieter alternative to Cemetery Road, ideal for focused photographers.
• Accessibility: Drive to the A658, park near Yeadon Tarn, then walk 10–15 minutes along the perimeter fence (free parking, but limited). Public transport: Bus 737/747 to Yeadon, then a 20-minute walk. From LBA terminal, it’s a £6 taxi or 25-minute walk. Open 24/7, but daylight is best. Paths can be muddy—wear wellingtons in winter.
• Photo Tips: Use a 100–300mm lens for approach shots; 200–400mm for taxiways or apron. Afternoon light (2–5 PM in summer) is ideal for Runway 32 arrivals, avoiding backlighting. Crosswinds create stunning crab-angle shots—use 1/1250s and burst mode. Tripods help for evening shots (1–3s for light trails). Heat haze is rare due to elevation, but mud can dirty lenses.
• Comfort & Facilities: No facilities, so pack a chair, snacks, and weather gear. Hardcore spotters only, as it’s exposed and isolated. Not ideal for kids due to the trek and lack of amenities. Security is minimal, but stay on public paths to avoid private land.
• Hazards & Etiquette: Muddy terrain and uneven ground require sturdy footwear. Avoid trespassing on adjacent fields (marked private). Be cautious of traffic on nearby roads when walking. Keep equipment low-key to avoid attention from occasional security patrols.

5. Hawthorne Farm (Beer Garden)

• Coordinates: 53.8650°N, 1.6750°W
• Why It’s Great: The Hawthorne Farm, a carvery pub near Yeadon Tarn, offers a unique spotting experience from its beer garden, with views of Runway 14/32 arrivals and departures. Aircraft like Jet2 B737s pass 150–200 yards overhead, creating a thrilling backdrop while you enjoy a pint or roast dinner. The garden’s open space is perfect for families, with an indoor play area for kids and a relaxed vibe for casual spotters. It’s a great alternative to Cemetery Road for those seeking comfort and amenities.
• Accessibility: Drive to Warren House Lane off the A658 (free parking at the pub, LS19 7TF). Public transport: Bus 737/747 to Yeadon, then a 10-minute walk. From LBA terminal, it’s a 15-minute walk or £5 taxi. Open 11 AM–10 PM (food until 8 PM). No entry fee; meals £8–£15.
• Photo Tips: Use a 100–300mm lens for overhead shots; 200–400mm for distant runway action. Morning light suits Runway 14 arrivals; evenings favor Runway 32 departures (golden hour 6–8 PM). Shoot from the garden’s edge to avoid trees. Use 1/1000s+ for jets; tripods are useful for dusk shots. The pub’s fence can obstruct low angles—stand or use a small ladder.
• Comfort & Facilities: The pub offers hearty meals (carvery, £10; kids’ menu, £5), drinks, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and a small indoor play area, making it ideal for families or long stays. The beer garden has ample seating but can be busy on weekends—arrive by noon. Kid-friendly and welcoming to spotters, with a cozy Yorkshire vibe.
• Hazards & Etiquette: Be discreet with large camera setups to avoid disturbing diners. Stay in the public garden area and avoid wandering toward private land. Security is nonexistent, but respect pub staff and patrons by keeping walkways clear.

Aircraft & Airlines

Leeds Bradford’s traffic is a vibrant mix of low-cost carriers, charters, GA, and occasional bizjets, with a growing international footprint:

• Major Airlines: Jet2.com (B737-800, B737-300, A321neo), Ryanair (B737-800, B737 MAX 8-200), TUI Airways (B737-800, B787-8/9), Wizz Air (A320, A321), KLM (Embraer 175/190), and Aer Lingus (ATR 72 via Emerald Airlines).
• New Routes: Since Doncaster Sheffield’s closure in 2022, Wizz Air and TUI transferred routes to LBA, adding destinations like Romania (Cluj-Napoca) and Poland (Warsaw). In 2024, Jet2 launched Agadir and Ryanair added Marrakesh, marking LBA’s first African routes.
• Cargo: Limited cargo ops, but DHL and Royal Mail use A320s and B737s for mail flights, peaking 3–5 AM. Rare heavies like the Antonov An-124 have diverted here (last in 2019).
• Bizjets: Multiflight’s Southside facility hosts Cessna Citations, Hawker 800s, and occasional Gulfstreams. Recent sightings include a NetJets Citation Latitude (CS-LTF) on June 28, 2025, per @YorkshireSpotters on X.
• General Aviation: Multiflight operates Cessna 172s, Piper PA-28s, and helicopters (e.g., Robinson R44) for training, visible from the café or Cemetery Road. GA traffic peaks weekends, 9 AM–3 PM.
• Military: Rare, but RAF tutors (Grob 115s) and occasional VIP jets (BAe 146) visit for training or charters. A C-17 Globemaster diverted to LBA in 2021, per @UKAvGeek.

Runway Usage: Runway 14 is used 60% of the time due to prevailing southwesterly winds, with landings and takeoffs consolidated on the single runway. Runway 32 operates 40% of the time during northerly winds. LBA handles ~30–40 movements per hour during peaks, with night restrictions limiting flights from 11 PM–7 AM (2,920 annual night movements allowed). Check www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk or @YorkshireSpotters for runway updates.

Traffic Patterns: Jet2 dominates with 50–60 daily movements, peaking 7–11 AM (arrivals) and 4–8 PM (departures). Ryanair and TUI add 10–15 daily flights, with Wizz Air and KLM at 2–4 each. Cargo peaks 3–5 AM; bizjets are sporadic, often 10 AM–4 PM. New Morocco routes (Agadir, Marrakesh) operate weekly, typically Wednesdays and Sundays.

Rare Traffic & Events

Leeds Bradford’s regional status doesn’t dim its potential for avgeek surprises:

• Special Liveries: Recent sightings include Jet2’s “Jet2holidays” B737-800 (G-JZHP), Ryanair’s “Ciao Venezia” B737-800 (EI-EBX), and TUI’s “Dreamliner” B787-9 (G-TUIJ), spotted in June 2025, per @YorkshireSpotters. Follow X for real-time alerts.
• Rare Aircraft: Passenger B747s are gone, but diverted cargo B767s or A330s occasionally appear (e.g., Air Canada A330-300 in February 2025, per @UKAvGeek). The last An-124 visit was in 2019, a major event for local spotters.
• Military Visitors: RAF Tutors and Hawks visit for training, often unannounced. A USAF C-130J diverted to LBA in 2023, thrilling spotters at Cemetery Road. Monitor 123.600 MHz (tower) for surprise military callsigns.
• Diversions: LBA is a secondary diversion airport for Manchester and Doncaster Sheffield routes, bringing rarities like Emirates B777-300ERs or Norse Atlantic B787s during storms. A Qantas A380 diverted here in 2018, per local spotter logs.
• Events: The Yorkshire Air Museum (30-minute drive, Elvington) hosts airshows with Spitfires and Hunters, complementing LBA visits. LBA’s open days (check www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk) offer apron access, though rare. Nearby Scarborough Armed Forces Day (June 27, 2020) featured flyovers visible from LBA on clear days.
• Historical Moments: LBA’s Concorde visits (1986–2000, notably Air France’s 1986 charter drawing 70,000 spectators) are legendary. The airport’s WWII Avro factory produced 5,515 aircraft, including 695 Lancasters, with hangars still standing on the Industrial Estate.

Pro Tip: Mornings (6–10 AM) are best for Jet2 arrivals and GA traffic; evenings (4–8 PM) for departures and charters. Night cargo (3–5 AM) requires dedication but rewards with rare mail flights. Use Flightradar24’s “LBA/EGNM” filter or Plane Finder for schedules.

Tips for Visiting

• Tech Tools:
  • Apps: Flightradar24 (filter for LBA/EGNM, sort by aircraft type for Jet2 A321neos or bizjets) and ADS-B Exchange for unfiltered GA/military data. LiveATC.net offers tower (123.600 MHz), ground (121.800 MHz), and approach (134.150 MHz) frequencies. FlightAware tracks cargo and charter schedules.
  • Gear: Pack a DSLR (Canon EOS R6 or Nikon Z7 recommended), 100–400mm lens, tripod, binoculars, and a scanner (e.g., Uniden UBC125XLT) for ATC. A small ladder (2–3 feet) is ideal for Cemetery Road. Bring a power bank for apps during long sessions.
  • Camera Settings: For jets, use 1/1000s+ shutter speed, ISO 100–400, f/8 for sharpness. For GA/helicopters, 1/500s captures prop blur. Night shots (cargo or dusk departures) need 1–3s exposures with a tripod for light trails. Boost saturation for Jet2’s red livery; underexpose for Ryanair’s white fuselage. Use a polarizing filter to cut glare at Multiflight Café.
• Timing: Peak traffic is 7–11 AM (arrivals) and 4–8 PM (departures) for Jet2/Ryanair. Cargo peaks 3–5 AM; GA/bizjets are busiest weekends (9 AM–3 PM). Summer (June–August) offers long daylight; winter (December–February) brings crosswinds and diversions but short days (dark by 4 PM).
• Safety & Etiquette:
  • Rules: Stick to public areas like Cemetery Road, Yeadon Tarn, or Multiflight. Trespassing airside is illegal (fines or arrest). Avoid cemetery grounds to respect locals.
  • Local Vibe: LBA is spotter-friendly, with a small but active community (@YorkshireSpotters on X). Security is relaxed in public areas but monitors airside closely. Be polite if questioned about large camera setups.
  • Hazards: Cemetery Road and The Pan have muddy, uneven terrain—wear wellingtons. Strong winds at LBA’s elevation require secure tripods. Avoid blocking roads or paths with equipment. Night spotting (cargo) requires high-visibility clothing near roads.
• Weather: LBA’s high altitude brings wind, rain, and fog—pack waterproof jackets, boots, and layers. Cemetery Road and The Pan are exposed; Multiflight and Hawthorne Farm offer shelter. Morning light favors Runway 14; afternoons suit Runway 32. Crosswinds are common, creating epic photo ops but challenging stability.

Extras for AvGeeks

• Historical Significance: LBA’s WWII Avro factory (north of the airport) was Europe’s largest free-standing structure, producing 5,515 aircraft, including 695 Lancasters and 4,500 Ansons. Original hangars remain on the Leeds Bradford Airport Industrial Estate. Concorde’s 1986 Air France charter drew 70,000 spectators, with BA Concorde flights continuing until 2000. The airport’s 1965 runway and 1968 terminal (post-fire) marked its rise as a regional hub.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Yorkshire Air Museum (30-minute drive, Elvington, 53.9290°N, 0.9700°W): The UK’s largest air museum, with a Wright Flyer replica, Concorde G-AXDN, and modern jets like a Tornado. Entry £15, open daily. Airshows (e.g., Thunder Day) feature flyovers visible from LBA on clear days.
  • Otley Airfield (15-minute drive, 53.8800°N, 1.7100°W): GA spot with microlights and Cessnas. Free to visit, but call ahead for access.
  • Duxford IWM (2-hour drive): For a bigger aviation fix, with Spitfires, B-17s, and Concorde.
• Trivia: LBA’s elevation (681 ft) makes it England’s highest airport, contributing to its crosswind drama. It was the first UK airport to host Wardair’s B747 transatlantic flights (1984–1986). The 1994 lifting of night restrictions boosted 24/7 ops, though noise concerns persist.
• Aviation Shops: The terminal’s WHSmith stocks aviation magazines and Jet2 models (£10–£20). Multiflight Café sells pilot gear and small models. Online, The Aviation Bookshop (Tunbridge Wells) offers LBA-specific books like “Leeds Bradford Airport Through Time” (£15).
• Maintenance & Training: Multiflight’s Southside facility is a hub for GA training (Cessna 172s, Piper PA-28s) and bizjet maintenance, with occasional test flights visible from Cemetery Road. Jet2’s HQ and engineering base (north apron) services B737s, sometimes visible from The Pan.

Photos & Maps

• Example Shots: Cemetery Road yields iconic Runway 14 landing shots (e.g., Jet2 B737-800 in crosswinds). Yeadon Tarn captures overhead TUI B787s with scenic backdrops. Multiflight Café is perfect for apron shots of Citations or Ryanair taxiing. The Pan offers dramatic Runway 32 approach shots. Hawthorne Farm’s beer garden frames jets against Yorkshire hills. Check @YorkshireSpotters or YouTube’s “LIVE Leeds Bradford Airport Planespotting” for pro shots.
• Editing Tips: Use 1/1000s+ for jets; 1/500s for GA prop blur. Boost contrast for Jet2’s red livery or TUI’s blue tail. Underexpose for Ryanair’s white fuselage. For night cargo, use 1–3s exposures (ISO 800–1600) with Lightroom noise reduction. Polarizing filters cut window glare at Multiflight.
• Maps: Visit www.spotterguide.net or yorkshirespotters.blogspot.com for interactive maps of Cemetery Road, The Pan, and Yeadon Tarn. Google Maps’ satellite view helps scout The Pan’s fence line. The airport’s website (www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk) has a spotting guide with warnings about cemetery etiquette.

Your Rating

• Traffic (7/10): Strong Jet2 and Ryanair presence, with growing Wizz Air and TUI routes. Limited cargo and bizjets, but diversions add spice. Less varied than Heathrow or Stansted.
• Access (8/10): Excellent public transport (buses, taxis) and free parking at Cemetery Road/Yeadon Tarn. Multiflight and Hawthorne Farm add comfort but require planning. Rural spots are accessible but muddy.
• Photo Ops (8/10): Stunning crosswind shots at Cemetery Road and The Pan, with open views due to elevation. Lighting is excellent, though haze and fences can challenge. Multiflight’s windows are a bonus.
• Rare Sightings (6/10): Special liveries and diversions are occasional treats; military and heavy cargo are rare but thrilling when they appear.

Local Vibe, Hazards & Etiquette

• Spotter-Friendly: LBA is welcoming, with a tight-knit spotting community sharing tips via @YorkshireSpotters. Airport staff are spotter-aware, especially at Multiflight, but urge respect for local areas like the cemetery. Security is relaxed in public zones but strict airside.
• Hazards: Cemetery Road and The Pan have muddy, uneven terrain—wear boots. Crosswinds and rain are common; secure tripods and gear. Night spotting (cargo) requires high-visibility clothing near roads. Avoid cemetery grounds to prevent community complaints.
• Etiquette: Respect locals by parking responsibly and avoiding cemetery walls/graves. Keep noise low at Yeadon Tarn and Hawthorne Farm. At Multiflight, be discreet with large setups to avoid disturbing diners. Comply with security if questioned about equipment.
• Facilities: Multiflight Café (8:30 AM–3:30 PM, £3–£8) and Hawthorne Farm (11 AM–8 PM, £8–£15) offer food, drinks, and restrooms. Yeadon Tarn has a café (9 AM–4 PM, £3–£8) and picnic areas. Cemetery Road and The Pan lack amenities—pack supplies. The terminal’s Camden Food Co. offers post-security runway views for passengers only.
• Kid-Friendly: Yeadon Tarn and Hawthorne Farm are ideal for families, with playgrounds and open spaces. Multiflight is great for kids fascinated by planes, with indoor comfort. Cemetery Road and The Pan suit older kids or hardcore spotters due to exposure and lack of facilities.

Practical Planning Guide

• Getting There:
  • Car: From Leeds city center (8 miles), take the A65/A658 (25 minutes). Free parking at Cemetery Road/Yeadon Tarn; Multiflight and Hawthorne Farm have free lots. Long Stay Car Park at LBA is £5–£15. Use postcode LS19 7TU for GPS.
  • Public Transport: Bus 737/747 from Leeds (20 minutes, £3–£5) or Bradford (30 minutes) to Yeadon. From LBA terminal, taxis to spotting spots cost £4–£6. No direct train, but Leeds station connects via bus.
• Best Times to Visit:
  • Daily: 7–11 AM for Jet2 arrivals; 4–8 PM for departures; 3–5 AM for cargo (hardcore only). GA peaks weekends, 9 AM–3 PM.
  • Weekly: Sundays/Wednesdays for Morocco flights (Agadir, Marrakesh). Weekdays see steadier Jet2/Ryanair ops.
  • Seasonal: Summer (June–August) for long daylight and charters; winter (December–February) for crosswinds and diversions.
• What to Bring:
  • Essentials: DSLR, 100–400mm lens, tripod, binoculars, scanner, power bank, rain gear, wellingtons, chair, snacks.
  • Optional: Noise-canceling headphones for ATC, polarizing filter, portable anemometer for wind direction (Runway 14/32 shifts).
• Nearby Amenities: Multiflight Café (full English, £8) and Hawthorne Farm (carvery, £10) are top for food. Yeadon Tarn Café offers snacks. Terminal has Camden Food Co. (post-security, £5–£10). No facilities at Cemetery Road/The Pan—pack a cooler.
• Accommodation: Premier Inn Leeds Bradford Airport (£50–£100, 5-minute walk from terminal, LS19 7AW) lacks runway views but is convenient. Travelodge Leeds Bradford Airport (£40–£80, 5-minute drive) is budget-friendly. For luxury, Hollins Hall Hotel (10-minute drive, £80–£150) offers Yorkshire charm. Book early for summer.

AvGeek Itinerary: A Perfect Day at Leeds Bradford

• 6:30 AM: Start at Cemetery Road for Runway 14 sunrise landings (Jet2 B737-800, 7 AM arrival). Use 70–200mm lens for touchdown shots. Monitor tower frequency (123.600 MHz).
• 9:00 AM: Head to Multiflight Café for breakfast (£8) and apron views (Cessna 172s, bizjets). Log registrations and shoot taxiing Ryanair B737s.
• 12:00 PM: Picnic at Yeadon Tarn, capturing overhead TUI B787s (Runway 14). Use 100–300mm lens and check Flightradar24 for incoming charters.
• 2:00 PM: Walk to The Pan for Runway 32 approaches (if active). Photograph crosswind landings (Wizz Air A321). Use 1/1250s shutter speed.
• 4:00 PM: Relax at Hawthorne Farm’s beer garden with a pint (£5). Shoot Jet2 departures with Yorkshire hills as backdrop. Monitor @YorkshireSpotters for diversions.
• 6:00 PM: Return to Cemetery Road for golden-hour Runway 14 arrivals. Capture Ryanair B737 MAX in evening light (1/1000s).
• 8:00 PM: Optional night session at Multiflight car park for cargo (DHL A320, 3 AM). Use tripod for 2s exposures. Head to Premier Inn or home.

Community & Resources

• Local Spotting Groups: Follow @YorkshireSpotters on X and yorkshirespotters.blogspot.com for real-time alerts on liveries, diversions, and GA movements. The Yorkshire Spotters Facebook group shares photos and logs.
• Forums & Apps: Planespotters.net and Airliners.net have LBA threads with schedules. Flightradar24 Pro (£50/year) and ADS-B Exchange track bizjets and military. YouTube’s “LIVE Leeds Bradford Airport Planespotting” (Nick and Tom) streams Cemetery Road sessions.
• Publications: “Leeds Bradford Airport Through Time” (£15, Amberley Publishing) details LBA’s history. Airliner World (£5/issue) covers Jet2 routes.
• Events: Yorkshire Air Museum’s airshows (Elvington) complement LBA visits. LBA’s community days (rare, check www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk) offer apron tours. Scarborough Armed Forces Day (June) features flyovers visible from LBA.

Leeds Bradford Airport is a Yorkshire avgeek’s dream, blending dramatic crosswind landings, Jet2’s bustling hub, and a cozy spotting community. From Cemetery Road’s runway thrills to Multiflight’s café views, LBA offers a high-altitude adventure steeped in history.