Paine Field is the home of Boeing’s largest factory and known best as the test field for the fresh off the line 777, 767, 748, and 787 frames.

| Spot A: Future of Flight

Views: This location has a commanding view of the Boeing plant and flight line.  It can provide a backdrop of the factory along with the plane in blue sky shots.

Directions: From I-5, take the WA-526 exit toward Mukilteo, keeping left through the off-ramp.  Follow past the runway to the light at the museum, turning left.  You can’t miss it!

Security: Don’t jump the fence, and don’t follow the tour buses to the gate.  Otherwise, you won’t have a problem!

Photography: A 70-200 will cover most of the larger aircraft, but a 200+ is necessary for most biz jets and general aviation.  Best of all, fences aren’t necessary to worry about because the location has several convenient mounds.  You can also view the area from the observation deck at the future of flight during business hours, though you may need pre-purchased tickets for certain events, such as the first flight of a new aircraft type. The light is best from noon on through the day.

Notes: N/A

Some photos shot from this location:


Photo by Jeremy Lindgren

Photo by Jeremy Lindgren

Photo by Jeremy Lindgren

| Spot B: Tower Lot

Views: This spot provides great views of the Olympic Mountains in background, and is the morning’s favored spot.

Directions: From I-5, take the WA-526 exit toward Mukilteo, keeping left through the off-ramp.  Take the Airport Rd exit and follow until you hit the light for 100th St where you will turn right.  It becomes 32nd Ave SW, and follow to the lot near to the tower that is close to the B52.

Security: No problems, but be respectful..

Photography: You will need a long lens to make this spot work well.  A 200+ is necessary.  It is best before noon.

Notes: Be sure to stay in the lot near to the tower.

Some photos shot from this location:


Photo by Jeremy Lindgren

Photo by Jeremy Lindgren

Photo by Jeremy Lindgren