Join OAW today and participate in community watch efforts while you enjoy plane spotting and photographing many of the world’s most impressive aircraft.

Member benefits

Improved airport location access
Law enforcement support
Two or three on-field airport tours per year
Great opportunities to socialize with aviation professionals, hobbyists and photographers
Opportunity to showcase your photography skills on our Featured Member page

A government-issued state ID or drivers license is required to join. No other form of identification are accepted.
We have no explicit age requirement, but you must have a valid, government-issued ID to join. Certain tours and events may have age requirements, however.
Kids are able to participate under their parent’s membership. So long as they are accompanied by their parent member, they are free to spot as they please! They can join on as a member once they receive a state ID or drivers license (see above question).
We currently do annual tours at Chicago O’Hare during the fall and a tour at Rockford right before Christmas. The tours typically last a full day. A bus driver will take us around the airport, visiting hangars, fire departments, aircraft, and other places important to airport operations. We have had guest speakers including firefighters, TSA and FBI agents, AAR group employees, and airport employees. And of course, you will have plenty of time to get out and take photos!
Note: per CDA guidelines, members must be at least 18 to attend O’Hare tours.