Plane Spotting at Hamilton John C. Munro International Airport (YHM).

Hamilton John C. Munro International Airport (YHM) is a vibrant hub for aviation enthusiasts, particularly those interested in cargo aircraft. Located just 10 kilometers south of downtown Hamilton and an hour's drive from downtown Toronto, YHM is often considered one of the four airports serving Toronto, alongside Pearson, Billy Bishop, and Waterloo. YHM is the base for Cargojet, Canada’s largest cargo airline, making it a prime location for spotting their 757 and 767 freighters.

Cargo operations dominate YHM, with Cargojet leading the fleet. You’ll frequently see Cargojet’s 757 and 767 freighters. UPS also serves YHM daily with 767 aircraft, supplemented by a variety of smaller freighters like the DH8-100, Beech 1900, Cessna 208, and Saab 340, which are often active at night. Other notable cargo airlines include Aeronaves TSM, DHL, and Kalitta Charters II. Occasionally, you might spot rare aircraft types such as MD82/83, DC9, CRJ200, SW4, 733/4, and even Russian planes like the An124, Il76, and An12.

Best Plane Spotting Locations at YHM

1. Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum (CWHM) Observation Decks

The observation decks at CWHM offer excellent views. After entering the museum, navigate through the exhibits to the second-floor deck. A small door on the right side leads to an open area on the ramp with chairs and tables. This spot offers views of the whole ramp with five gates, where UPS, Cargojet, and DHL aircraft are typically stationed. Special charter flights, including Russian jets, are often parked at the nearest gate.

2. Around CWHM

Walking around the CWHM provides various vantage points. The parking lot to the west and areas along E Cargo Rd offer close views of the aircraft.

3. Terminal Parking

The terminal parking area is another good spot. Standing on the concrete base surrounding a light pole elevates your sight above the mesh fence, providing clear views.

4. Purolator/Jetport

There are several spots around the Purolator and Jetport buildings. Some parking lots extend to the edge of the ramp, facing south or north, offering views of the KF Aerospace area and Cargojet gates.

5. KF Hill

KF Hill, accessed via Airport Rd, provides a high vantage point. After passing Mohawk College, turn right into a jungle area and climb up the hill. This spot offers views of aircraft on the inner ramp, private jets outside the Jetport hangar, and visitors to KF Aerospace.

6. Salem Rd. Hill

Salem Rd. Hill requires a car to reach. Drive west on Airport Rd, turn right into Glancaster Rd, and then right onto Salem Rd. Park at the entrance and climb the hill for clear views of Rwy12 landings and some Rwy30 operations.

7. CJT Maintenance Ramp

Adjacent to the Cargojet Maintenance facility, this flat hill offers views of movements in front of the hangar. You'll see Cargojet aircraft, stored airframes, and occasionally unique visitors like Air Drake’s 767-200.

Hamilton John C. Munro International Airport is a treasure trove for plane spotters, especially those interested in cargo aircraft. With diverse aircraft types, frequent movements, and several excellent vantage points, YHM offers a rich and engaging experience for aviation enthusiasts.