Trip Preparation for a Flight to Man-O-War Cay, Bahamas

Greetings, fellow aviators and travel enthusiasts! Today, I'm excited to share with you the preparation process for my upcoming general aviation flight to the picturesque Man-O-War Cay in the Bahamas. This isn't my first flight to the Bahamas this year, but each journey brings its unique requirements and experiences.

Aircraft Readiness

Before any international flight, I ensure that my aircraft is in top condition. This includes a thorough pre-flight inspection and making sure all maintenance is up to date. The airplane is currently in it's annual inspection, but I like to get a couple of flights post annual before doing an international trip.  I have a few tools with me, including jumper cables, and a spare inner tube.  

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Flying internationally requires adherence to specific regulations. Because I do fly internationally fairly regularly, I recently switched back to a standard medical certificate from the BasicMed program. 

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) website (https://www.aopa.org/travel/international-travel/bahamas)) is a treasure trove of information for flights to the Bahamas. It provides checklists and guidelines to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Customs and Immigration

eAPIS Submission

The Electronic Advance Passenger Information System (eAPIS) submission is a crucial step. I always make sure to complete this process well in advance to avoid any last-minute hurdles. First time was a bit nerving, but I love that you can save pilot and crew information, and create manifests based on previous trips. Most of my international travel is with the family, so it stays the same. 

Required Documents

Passports, pilot certificates, and aircraft registration are just the basics. I also carry my standard medical certificate, ensuring it's up-to-date and compliant with international regulations.