Avoid international ops pitfalls with these tips
International operations add another layer of complexity to business aviation flying. Generally, operators are aware of common requirements like landing/overflight permits, route/flight planning, fuel, etc. But here are some more obscure, but all too common, pitfalls we’ve seen derail international trips.
- Be aware of passport validity for all passengers and crew. Some countries require at least six months of validity or a complete blank page in passports.
- Ensure that your service provider has all essential documents (aircraft/crew/passengers) to make preplanning easier and to avoid having to send documents while on the road.
- Be prepared to be flexible with slots in some of the busier locations. Granted slots can be many hours different to what was requested.
- Be aware that late or early departures can affect things such as customs availability, permits and slots. Failure to comply with these time constraints can result in fines.
- Allow enough time for catering orders, especially if they include specialty items. In more remote locations catering options can be limited and orders may even have to go through local hotels.
- Consider whether you’re flying to a country which has strict disinsection (insect control) procedures. This may involve following country- or airport-specific procedures after landing/prior to departure, or purchasing spray cans to disinsect the aircraft cabin.
More information can be found here: transportation.gov/airconsumer/spray
With some preparation and contingency planning your international trip should be uneventful. If you need additional support and expertise, Jeppesen’s International Trip Planning Services (ITPS) can fill any operational gaps you may have. Learn more or email us FSS@jeppesen.com.
International operations add another layer of complexity to business aviation flying. Generally, operators are aware of common requirements like landing/overflight permits, route/flight planning, fuel, etc. But here are some more obscure, but all too common, pitfalls we’ve seen derail international trips.
- Be aware of passport validity for all passengers and crew. Some countries require at least six months of validity or a complete blank page in passports.
- Ensure that your service provider has all essential documents (aircraft/crew/passengers) to make preplanning easier and to avoid having to send documents while on the road.
- Be prepared to be flexible with slots in some of the busier locations. Granted slots can be many hours different to what was requested.
- Be aware that late or early departures can affect things such as customs availability, permits and slots. Failure to comply with these time constraints can result in fines.
- Allow enough time for catering orders, especially if they include specialty items. In more remote locations catering options can be limited and orders may even have to go through local hotels.
- Consider whether you’re flying to a country which has strict disinsection (insect control) procedures. This may involve following country- or airport-specific procedures after landing/prior to departure, or purchasing spray cans to disinsect the aircraft cabin.
More information can be found here: transportation.gov/airconsumer/spray
With some preparation and contingency planning your international trip should be uneventful. If you need additional support and expertise, Jeppesen’s International Trip Planning Services (ITPS) can fill any operational gaps you may have. Learn more or email us FSS@jeppesen.com.