Try using Base Ops.
You can look up a handler for you and it does not charge a fortune for them to handle all aspects of your flight.
We routinely fly into Mexico with our corporate aircraft and have had no issues. That being stated here is what to watch out for.
Get your custom paperwork APIS up to date. If your unfamiliar with this go to flightplan.com and read about it. You can do this yourself with customs in your area and save yourself a lot of money paying for a 3 party vendor.
There are areas we do not fly into and the AOPA will advise you on hostile areas where there is basically no law in Mexico. So will the US Embassy in Mexico. Get your vaccines up to date..
We know that when going into a lot of places the military watches the airfields and usually there are armed guards all over. Be polite, remember you are the pilot. The bigger the aircraft the bigger the tips if you don't want hassles.
You can contact your insurance company they usually have Mexician companies they do business with that can write your insurance while your in Mexico. It is fairly inexpensive as insurance go to add a rider on your policy.
You must have a copy of this in your possession at all times. Also make copies of all pilot certificates, medical certificates, AC registration certificates, radio licenses etc. all the ARROW stuff.. and have it available to hand out. They will keep it. Have a passport... current... make sure... it is too late when you've landed to find out it is expired.
I have called Base Ops, part of World Fuel, and told them I was not going to use them for handling our aircraft on a particular trip but inquired and was honest with them that I just wanted information and if they would help. Most of these big outfits can not make enough on a single engine aircraft to go crazy and charge them for the services but they will usually help you with advice free.
Let folks know where your going back home.. and your expected travel times. Call in. Mexico like many countries, once you clear customs your free to travel around but the authorities at various airports like to tell you that you must clear Customs and Immigrations at every airport. This is not true but they hold the upper hand since to file a flight plan you have to get permission to do this. $ usually handles most problems. This is where getting the name of a handler from one of the big companies will really help. They will have everything all set up... and you can usually deal with these guys directly saving you money.
Mexico is a fantastic country to fly over, the scenery is sometimes breathtaking. There are small volcanos that constantly smoke in the lower part of the country.
Smilin' Jack
Email me at
[email protected] if you have any further questions.