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flying private
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flying private to rum cay
The most important thing to note is that you must land at an Airport of Entry (AOE) the first time you enter the islands.
Plan to arrive in the Bahamas prior to 4 PM, because making arrangements for ground transportation may be difficult after this time and Customs will be easier to locate.
Normal hours for Customs are 9 AM - 5:30 PM daily. Check with the airport for specific hours.
Landing Procedures
Controlled Airports: Nassau and Grand Bahama International are controlled airports, and you are advised to contact approach control or tower approximately 20 nm out for landing instructions. When approaching West End, it is recommended you contact Freeport Approach prior to entering the Freeport airspace.
All arriving aircraft into Nassau International are required to file a written Arrival Report at FSS/Tower. Privately owned aircraft are not exempt from this requirement. This can be done at the General Aviation Terminal between 9 AM - 4:30 PM or at one of the FBOs with Customs.
Uncontrolled Airports: When approaching airports with no control facilities you are required to announce: Aircraft identification, Location, and Intentions over Unicom frequency 122.8 - Pass over airport at 1,000' MSL and enter LEFT traffic pattern. All landings and takeoffs at uncontrolled fields shall be into the wind. When departing uncontrolled airports state intentions and whether you intend to back-track runway.
What equipment is required to fly to the bahamas?
You must have a Mode C transponder, 12-inch tail numbers, and U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets for each person on board. A life raft is not required, but is suggested.
What special procedures do I follow when departing the U.S.?
File an International or DVFR Flight Plan and activate it in the air. Close the Flight Plan in the air prior to landing on 124.2 or 128.0 (Nassau Radio) or if unable, with 800-WX-BRIEF or 242-377-7116 on the ground.
Can I arrive at night?
Instrument-rated pilots can fly IFR into Nassau or Freeport after sunset. These are the only airports with instrument approaches at this time. Some other airports have lights for emergency use, and others will be added in the future.
You will not be permitted to land in the Bahamas after official sunset prior to official sunrise, unless you have filed an IFR flight plan. Under these conditions, your arrival must be at Freeport, Rock Sound, or Nassau International (unless special prior arrangements have been approved by the Director of Civil Aviation).
You will not be allowed to cancel IFR during these hours and full instrument approaches will be required even if the visibility is unrestricted. You are expected to be properly qualified, have all available current approach plates and a properly equipped aircraft to execute all full instrument approaches. Should you fail to meet any of these requirements, you will be in violation of Bahamian Aviation Regulations and could be turned around by the Tower.
What proof of citizenship is required?
You need either a Passport or a Birth Certificate for entering the Bahamas, and returning to the U.S.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes, you will need an Import Permit. Call Agriculture, 242-325-7502. Downloadable Forms are available and can be found under the "information" links to the left.
What FORMS are required?
Complete either four General Declaration forms (C7), or if you will be traveling to other islands, four copies of the Cruising Permit (C7A). You will keep one stamped copy with you to show Customs at other airports. In addition, an Arrival Report is required at Nassau and Freeport, and at some other airports for twins. Each person also will complete a Bahamas Immigration Card. Downloadable Forms are available and can be found under the "information" links to the left.
Fuel and Oil
100 Octane fuel is available at 8 airports in the Bahamas, depending upon supply. Marsh Harbour, George Town and Stella Maris are always reliable. Some aviation oil is available; however, , if you like to use a specific brand you should bring it with you. Remember, many places accept only cash for fuel.
Landing, Tie Down Procedures and Fees
Although most would recommend you tie your plane down, Out Island airports don't usually have ties. You can bring your own chocks or use rocks.
Landing fees are waived for single engine aircraft at all Government owned airports. Twins pay a small fee from $4 to $15. Private airports may charge landing/parking fees, usually $4 to $15. The FBOs in Nassau and Freeport may charge ramp fees as well. All persons pay a $15 departure tax, including pilot and co-pilot.
Are there any overtime fees?
There are no overtime fees for private, non-commercial aircraft.
Returning to the US:
What forms must be filed when departing?
Fill out two outbound General Declaration forms (C7), surrender your copy of the Immigration card, and pay departure tax of $15 per person.
What kind of Flight Plan do I file when returning to the U.S.?
You will file an International Flight Plan with 800-WX-BRIEF or Nassau Radio 124.2, 128.0.
Once in the air, you must contact Miami Radio 15 minutes before penetrating the ADIZ, just past Bimini. Contact Flight Service on 126.7. They will give you a discrete transponder code. Do not penetrate the ADIZ without this code.
Is ADCUS on the Flight Plan adequate notice for U.S. Customs?
No, you are required to contact them at least 1 hour before arrival. A phone call is the only way to comply.
Do I have to land at any particular airport in the U.S.?
There are many convenient Florida Airports with U.S. Customs.
What numbers must I call for weather information?
Both in the U.S. and The Bahamas 800-WX-BRIEF, 242-377-7178, 242-377-7116.
More Information
The Bahamas & Caribbean Pilor's Guide is the complete source for all the information you will need. It can be purchased at many Florida FBOs, or directly from Pilot Publishing at 800-521-2120, 760-742-2281.
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