by Rick Lavoie, St. Augustine Florida USA
March 1997
Judy and I have flown to the Bahamas three times during the past 12 months. We have their system figured out for Experimental Aircraft entry procedures. It is no big deal, as long as you give them exactly what they want. The sample letter below is Step 1. If you will be mailing it, do it at least a few months in advance. By fax, two weeks should be fine, but the sooner the safer! Be sure to make copies of all the attachments listed in the letter and send them! If one item is missing, you will be denied and that will delay the entire process big time! After you have faxed it, wait about 1 week and call 242-377-7281 X303 to see if your approval is ready. Ask for Mrs. Deveaux of the Civil Aviation Dept. She may have you speak with the Director to answer a few questions, so be prepared when you call. It is possible that if you don't call, you may receive you approval anyway. I believe in the squeakie wheel theory in this case.
If you plan to depart from Ft. Pierce, Florida, the FBO there will prepare your Bahamas arrival reports & customs paperwork for you. Call Ft. Pierce Air Center at 407-489-2285. They will send you a form to fax back to them.
Date
Bahamian Civil Aviation Authority
Nassau International Airport
Nassau, Bahamas
I am writing to obtain permission to fly an experimental certified aircraft to the Bahamas on 16 May 1997. I plan on staying at the Coconut Cove Hotel, George Town, Great Exuma and flying in to Moss Town International Airport for about a one week vacation.
Attached are copies of my pilot and aircraft documents:
Two contacts in the event of an emergency are:
Name, address, phone numbers
Please contact me as soon as possible if you require anything else. I look forward to receiving your approval. If possible, please fax my written approval to 904-xxx-xxxx
Signature, Name, Address, Phone, & Fax #