Mexico Reforms Private Aircraft Entry:Discontinues Annual Permits

Mexico's civil aviation authority, AFAC, has implemented significant changes to the private aviation entry process. The traditional annual permit for private aircraft arrivals has been eliminated, making way for a new system that issues single-entry authorizations (AIU) valid for 180 days. This alteration, effective immediately, affects aircraft operators and requires them to obtain single use permits for each entry.

Juan Muniz, the lead global regulatory service specialist, Universal Weather and Aviation, highlighted that the AIU replaces both single- and multiple-entry permits. The AIU, issued upon arrival at the destination, enables multiple international flights within its 180-day validity period. However, to streamline the process, relevant flight, aircraft, and crew information must be submitted to local authorities in advance.

One notable addition to the required documentation is the inclusion of "the layout of passenger accommodations" from the aircraft manual. This change is a direct response to modifications in Mexico's civil aviation laws, aimed at curbing illegal charters operating within the country.

While the AIU processing time typically stands at 24 hours, Universal Weather and Aviation stated that, under normal business conditions, they can secure authorization with just a two-hour lead time. Importantly, there is no specified limit on the number of authorizations an operator can obtain, providing flexibility for those navigating the revised entry procedures.

The SEA allows for multiple entries into Mexico. Processing the new landing authorization requires a two-day advance notice, with potential variations in interpretation and implementation across different AFAC offices. Plans to monitor the central email address on weekends and holidays are in place.