DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION
NEW YORK AUTOMATED INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT SERVICE STATION
150 ARRIVAL AVENUE
LONG ISLAND MACARTHUR AIRPORT
RONKONKOMA, NEW YORK 11779
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT PLANNING
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) procedures are often quite different from U.S. domestic flight procedures. The International Flight Information Manual is designed as a guide for preflight planning for nonscheduled operators, business and private pilots flying outside the United States. This manual, which is complemented by the International Notices to Airmen publication (issued biweekly), contains foreign entry requirements, a directory of aerodromes of entry, operational data of a semi-permanent nature and pertinent regulations and restrictions. Information of a rapidly changing nature is not included and the pilot must assume the responsibility for acquiring this data from other published sources (charts, NOTAMs, enroute supplements).
All operators of U.S. registered aircraft are required to assure themselves that they ascertain and comply with the requirements of foreign states enroute and at destination, so that all flights from, into or over foreign territories are carried out in accordance with those requirements. Particular attention should be given to permissibility of night flights and services obtainable between sunset and sunrise.
The International Flight Information Manual and Notice to Airmen Domestic/International publication are available for reference at the New York AIFSS.
Some general procedures and advice to be considered are:
1. A flight plan is MANDATORY for flights across international borders.
2. Functioning two-way radio must be carried (unless the requirement is specifically waived). Most Oceanic Area Control Centers require High Frequency (HF) radio communications.
3. Carry all pertinent aeronautical charts.
4. Carry appropriate survival equipment for all occupants (maritime, polar, desert, or jungle).
5. Carry control locks and tie-down stakes and ropes.
6. Be sure to carry ample fuel.