Puerto Vallarta

Ted

The pilot formerly known as Twin Engine Ted
Joined
Oct 9, 2007
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iFlyNothing
Got a request to fly some pups out of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I have no idea if it will happen, but it's fun to start to look at details. I've done the Mexico trip numerous times, but always to Cozumel or Cancun. Gone IFR.

Puerto Vallarta has two extras thrown in. It's way on the other side of Mexico, and there's mountains in the way. Plane is the 310 - naturally aspirated, no turbos.

Looking at distances, I can make it non-stop from Laredo easily. I've never dealt with landing well into Mexico, but I'm guessing that it's no problem to overfly the country for the 500+ nm prior to landing. Given MEAs over the mountains, looks like I'd also need to go VFR. I seem to recall Dave did this in the Viking a few years back. I'd then go non-stop back to Laredo to clear customs and fly the pups back north to their new home.

Mainly looking for any reports from flying down there and tips. I think I'd try to get a handler for the trip.
 
I've been to Puerto Vallarta a couple times but both times were with a handler. The first time it was pretty relaxed. The second time it was a madhouse, being January 2nd when everyone was trying to leave. I don't think you should have too many problems as long as you aren't trying to go on a holiday. Yes there are mountains around and the approach takes you over them.
 
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