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Plane spotting at MER

Castle Airport, Merced

Castle Airport (MER) in Merced is a hidden gem for plane spotters, offering unique military and general aviation traffic. Identify and collect aircraft with FlightCatcherPro.

Where to spot

  • ·Observation Deck
  • ·Southwest Field

Rare catches

Look for these types to grow your collection:

C-130Beechcraft BaronPiper Cub

By the numbers

Castle Airport features a single runway and primarily serves military and general aviation traffic.

Spotter tips

  • ·Arrive early for the best light
  • ·Use the observation deck for a great view
  • ·Check local NOTAMs for military activity

Best time to spot

Morning hours provide the best light and increased traffic.

Spotting at MER? Identify the next arrival with your camera, or upload a photo you already have, in FlightCatcherPro.

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Featured in Top 10 best airports for plane spotting →

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All plane spotting airports
  • MCE·Merced Regional Macready Field7.3 mi
  • MOD·Modesto City Co-Harry Sham Field27 mi
  • FAT·Fresno Yosemite International Airport63 mi
  • SNS·Salinas Municipal Airport76 mi
  • NLC·Lemoore Naval Air Station (Reeves Field) Airport80 mi

Nearby plane spotting airports

  • MCE·Merced Regional Macready Field7.3 mi
  • MOD·Modesto City Co-Harry Sham Field27 mi
  • FAT·Fresno Yosemite International Airport63 mi
  • SNS·Salinas Municipal Airport76 mi
  • NLC·Lemoore Naval Air Station (Reeves Field) Airport80 mi