Get a complete overview of the course and what to expect. Learn how to build your “Fly to Mexico” folder, use the downloadable checklist and supplement, and set yourself up for confident, organized cross-border flying.

Discover why general aviation flying in Mexico is so special. From hidden destinations to relaxed VFR flying and rich cultural experiences, this lesson shows what makes the journey so rewarding.

Get a realistic sense of operations in Mexico, from ATC differences and local variations to the importance of flexibility and patience. Learn how a pilot’s mindset and preparation create smooth, confident experiences anywhere you land.

Plan your route with confidence—selecting Airports of Entry, understanding restricted airspace, and ensuring smart fuel planning. Learn how to combine WAC and IFR charts in ForeFlight for clear situational awareness across Mexico.

Use multiple forecasting tools to compensate for Mexico’s limited reports. Develop a conservative strategy for long legs, terrain gaps, and minimal alternates so your weather prep stays safe and stress-free.

Assemble all required aircraft paperwork—registration, airworthiness, insurance, and CBP decal—and organize it into a permanent folder. You’ll finish with a ready-to-present document kit that satisfies every official.

Learn how to prepare the complete personal documentation for everyone on board—passports, certificates, medicals, and notarized letters for minors or non-owners. Keep multiple copies in your folder so customs and immigration go smoothly.

See how each filing fits together—AIU, eAPIS, and ICAO flight plans—and learn which agencies to notify and when. This overview simplifies the outbound timeline so you can depart fully compliant and calm.

Use Flashpass to file your eAPIS manifests accurately and on time, with automatic submissions to both governments. Understand timing rules, how to handle changes, and how to save manifests for future flights. A step by step tutorial on EAPIS awaits

Learn how the 180-day AIU permit works, what documents to include, and when to apply. You’ll avoid long delays at your first stop and have an entry permit ready for future trips.

Learn how to enter proper aircraft codes, remarks, and border-crossing details in your DVFR or IFR plan. Learn how to activate, coordinate with ATC, and align filing timing with your eAPIS submission for a flawless process.

Put your preparation into action as you depart for Mexico. Learn how to activate and amend your DVFR flight plan, obtain and use your border-crossing squawk code, and understand how Flight Service and ATC coordinate during your transition.

Watch two real flights—Imperial to San Felipe and second crossing west of Calexico—and see how squawk codes, Flight Service activations, and ATC terminations work in practice. You’ll learn when to switch to the Flight Service code, how to handle being dropped from Flight Following, and what to do if ATC doesn’t coordinate a handoff. Includes specific guidance for crossings near San Diego and the 1260 code procedure for Tijuana.

Learn how to handle initial communication as you enter Mexican airspace. This lesson covers when to call, what to say, and how to respond to new squawk codes or reporting instructions. You’ll understand how to manage areas with no radio coverage, use pilot-to-pilot frequencies effectively, and maintain proper monitoring throughout your first minutes in Mexico.

Learn how to contact Mexico tower on approach, use the correct radio format, and understand the difference between advisory-only and fully controlled towers. This lesson walks through real examples from San Felipe and Loreto so you know exactly what to expect during arrival, landing, and taxi—making your first touchdown in Mexico effortless and professional.

Follow a self-guided process through immigration, customs, and the AFAC office. Understand forms, fees, and document checks so you can process efficiently and save hundreds in unnecessary charges.

Learn how to verify AFAC classifications, identify “Private with Third-Party Services” airports, and avoid closed or restricted strips. Keep your plans compliant and your destinations accessible.

Understand when and how to file and close paper flight plans, communicate at towered and non-towered fields, and manage local fees.

Review the four key requirements for reentry—filings, flight plans, customs coordination, and airport selection—so your return process feels as organized as your departure.

Learn how to file your return eAPIS with Flashpass, confirm CBP landing rights, and manage timing windows that avoid fines or delays. You’ll return smoothly with everything properly coordinated.

Understand how to file, activate, and maintain your DVFR or IFR flight plan on long legs. You’ll manage ADIZ timing, communication, and amendments with total confidence.

Submit your final Mexican flight plan, complete departure clearances, and coordinate with ATC/FSS for the border crossing. Keep timing accurate and communication clear for a smooth transition home. Come along in the cockpit on our flight back to the USA.

Arrive on time, taxi straight to customs, and present your prepared folder. You’ll know exactly what to show, what not to bring, and how to avoid the most common reentry mistakes.

Learn practical precautions for operating in Mexico—tie-downs, prop locks, communication tools, and emergency gear. You’ll gain strategies for personal security and remote-area preparedness.

Wrap up the full process with your ready-to-use checklist and course supplement. Join the SoCal Flying Monkey community, plan your first trip, and start flying south with total confidence.

Use our document generator to help create documents for authorizing non-owned aircraft, authorizing minors without both parents traveling, and AIU application cover letters.