International trip planning tips – part 2

There is no such thing as a straight-forward trip post-COVID-19. Regulatory complexities and service availability are constantly changing all over the globe. So, here are some trip support tips for operators from the UAS Americas team.

Full transparency

• Ensure your passengers are fully aware of potential changes that may occur over the course of the trip
• Ensure your crew is fully aware of regulatory requirements and limitations
• Ensure you allow ample time for processing permits and customs clearances
• Ensure all visa requirements are known well in advance as visas on arrival have been suspended in most countries
• COVID-19 requirements can vary on a daily occurrence for any given country – keep in mind that required documentation could vary over the course of planning
• Be prepared for potential repositions due to limited services

Know what to expect from your ground handlers

• Verify if your preferred ground agent is still in business. If not, is this a temporary or permanent closure?
• Verify operational hours
• Is credit still available? What are the current payment requirements? Is cash or credit card on hand required?
• Are customs available as published?
• Are standard services still available? Are VIP operations still available?
• What is fuel availability? Is fuel available at all hours? Is supply limited? Can this be obtained on credit?
• Are there any government restrictions on curfews and does this affect operational hours and/or the services available?
• Are there any restrictions on catering? (for both arrivals and departures)

 COVID-19 test requirements

• Know the requirements for each country you are visiting
• Ensure any PCR testing requirements are exactingly adhered to
• For extended flights to multiple countries, ensure you know if multiple testing is required and that you’re aware of where those can be facilitated in foreign countries
• Know the documentation requirements for foreign countries to accept test results
• Be prepared for positive test results
• Know the quarantine requirements and strictly adhere to them

Crew swaps – GA vs. Commercial

• Entry requirements vary for airline arrivals versus coming in as crew on a private aircraft
• Know the requirements for the respective country and the crew
• Ensure you obtain requirements for the respective nationality of your crew
• Some countries will allow the crew swap, but you need to have particular paperwork and it does take some time and planning
• Again, ensure you know the PCR test requirements and are aware of potential quarantine restrictions

Ground stay – minimums and maximums

• Ensure you know what the minimum and maximum ground times are at your destination – these can and have likely changed post COVID-19
• Are all parking bays being utilized?
• Verify if RONs are available
• Are there any restrictions on hotels for crew usage?

For support with your international trip planning, contact UAS