Balikesir

1Northern approach

Although a bit distant from the base and less suitable for photography, you might prefer this spot over spot 2. Take the exit from the D-573 just north of the exit to the main gate. The road passes the northern threshold but you probably don't want to linger around here. Instead, turn left just after passing the threshold, cross the old railroad track and turn left at the crossing of dirt roads. You can park your car here on the side of the road, the large shrubs make you invisible from the main road and more importantly, from the base.

2Northern approach - east side

Heading towards spot 1, you already passed spot 2. Park your car near the houses at the beginning of the road, and you will have excellent views of the aircraft landing and lining up for departure when runway 18 is in use. Photography is best from here in the morning. Beware of curious farmers though and don't forget to check out the preserved aircraft between the 18 threshold and the main gate from here.

3North eastern shelter area

Coming from spot 2, turn left and take the first road to your right. Just follow the fence by keeping right, although houses will block your view. After a couple of hundred meters, pavement will get rough and you can easily read off the aircraft parked in front of their shelters.

4Southern approach

The southern approach is less suitable for our activities, mainly because of the hills and lack of countryroads. Spot 4 is just off road D-555 leading south from the city of Balikesir. Take a left turn just after passing the housing area on the base. This road leads to a farm.

5East side

From the village of Yakupkoy there's a small dirt track, which leads to the eastern side of the base. This spot might give some interesting views of the shelterareas east of the runway.