Andy,

the problem is that if one group causes trouble it spoils it for those who may follow in later months/years – no plane number is worth the stress and problems that getting arrested will cause. The majority of spotters would not put themselves at risk like this but, as with football yobs, it only takes a couple to do something irresponsible and we are all tarred with the same brush. I have been on trips where pre-arranged visits have fallen through and it is disappointing but would never try to sneak in – it is just not worth the risk. If the authorities say no know, they may change their minds in a years or two time so it is worth being patient. Have done 2 trips to Russia in recent years – first trip we have a good visit to a particularly sensitive base with no problems – 2 years later same base but had a much better tour with access and photo permission to areas that were very much off limits 2 years previous.

do I detect a hint of sarcasm? (or a dirty great bucket load) 😉

Been collecting numbers for 20+ years now, along with photographs, museum visits, getting involved with a ‘hands on’ project etc Aircraft of all shapes & sizes rarely stay with one owner throught their lifetime and having so having relevant information on a particular aircraft history is of value. All pilots are spotters, otherwise why would they record which aircraft they flew 😉 The ability to trace an aircraft’s life history is important.

so Shrek is going to marry Donkey after all 🙂

watched a car pull up at a petrol pump – did a very quick double take as I noticed the rather large bird of prey on a perch in the back window !

Have always used Ridata – I get them from Aus and are still cheaper than here.
PM for website if interested.