Returning flights from The Bahamas. Flight restrictions

[floridacargocat]

When private aircraft are returning to one of the Ports of Entry In South Florida, please make sure, that this Port of Entry is actually operating. I am aware of a funny situation where an incoming private aircraft was directed to fly to FPR (instead of PBI) because of bad weather, and then it was realized, that FPR was closed (limited operating hours), and then was redirected all over South Florida. Make sure that there are enough fuel reserves for such an event.
PBI is open basically 8 - 8, FXE is open 9 - 5, FLL is open 24 hours.
Please make sure, that all the necessary information has been checked concerning the flight and US Customs aspects.
In addition, Temporary Flight Restrictions might apply for the FLL/FXE area, the OPF area is already affected by a TFR until Fr 0900 h.

[Fletcher]

Another heads up is if you depart the Abacos you have no access to phones for FSS or Customs. I inquired to customs about this problem and they said do not depend on ADCUS to advise Customs. Spent 10 minutes on hold for FSS this morning before the Sat phone dropped my call. Customs also said 24hrs is the most they go out for advising them.


Fletcher