Event Details and Registration

Join us to hear Paul Kortopates, Lead FAASTeam Rep, Master CFI, A&P/IA, Miramar College Aviation Instructor and GA pilot for over 35 years. He'll speak about the many flying adventures awaiting any pilot flying south of the border. He'll cover the details, including recent procedural changes in Mexico using a fun example of a long weekend trip to pet the California Gray Whales this winter at any of 3 lagoons in Baja - a truly novel experience. Flying south is very different from flying in the US with unexpected risks and pitfalls; especially complying with US and Mexican cross border requirements. Destination runways are often dirt. Amenities such as constant contact with ATC, radar coverage  and ADS-B weather disappear shortly after crossing the border.  Additionally, VFR and IFR have different rules. Paul will discuss how to mitigate the different risks inherit in flying in Mexico. He'll also guide us through the seemingly complex border crossing procedures.

Even the past Mexico experienced pilots will appreciate learning about all the changes instituted last year.

Landings Restaurant Patio at Palomar Airport located at El Camino Real and Palomar Airport Road

Paul has been flying to Mexico and further afield for over 20 years in his Mooney, including Central America and Cuba.  He has done many Mexico checkouts flights for pilots wanting to get first-hand experience before taking friends and family down.  He'll also provide a taste of the fun adventures awaiting pilots in pictures. Flying south isn't limited to the aircraft owner, and he'll also discuss how a rental pilot can rent planes permitted to fly into Mexico.

Be sure to pre-register in advance for this seminar, as it will ensure receiving Wings Credit. 

If you are unable to pre-register, be sure to sign in with your legible FAASafety.gov registered email address to ensure Wings Credit.. 

There will be time for Q&A after the presentation.