::: After visiting the Koksijde Open Doors for many years (my first was in 1983, when there where still dozens of F-104's in storage there), I a was always complaining about the layout of the static show (see here). Also it is difficult to shoot the flying display because you far away from the display line and you have to face the sun the whole day as the public will stand on the north part of the base. For sure it is far from ideal.

::: This year I decided to subscribe to the special spotters event called 'Spotter Mania' It consisted of a 3 day access pass to the base and allowed you to stand in the 'Ops-zone' on the southern part of the base. Standing there, close to the display line and with the sun in your back, you had the best photo opportunities you could wish. For the  expensive entrance fee of € 50,-, you did get also the chance to be there at the arrivals on Friday, pre-show static access, a guided tour in the Ops-zone and more.