Expert: David Bidwell - 12/23/2004

Question
Ok, I just thought of 3 more questions for you. And, thank you very much for all that your helping me with.

1. For STAR arrivals, do I have to follow the altitude that it says on the plates? Because some have the altitude lf like 13,000 ft and some planes cant climb that high. They go from 13,0000 ft. to 4000 ft across an intersection, Do i have to follow that?

2. If I am flying IFR from an airport that is in IFR conditions, but want to fly to an airport that is VFR conditions and it does not have an instrument approach, how would I do put that on the flight plan, and how would that work?

3. If I am flying from the US to Mexico, I know I have to file a flight plan and remain in contact with a controller, but what else do I have to do. Do I need to get in touch with a customs, how would I do that? Is it the same for flying into Cananda?

Thanks once again and happy holidays!!
Korey  

Answer
Hello again,
#1.  First off, if you are assigned a STAR you will be required to follow it.  With that being said, you probably won't be assigned a STAR that your aircraft can't handle.  When you file your flight plan you inform what type of aircraft you are flying.  Also, you must remember that you are the pilot in command and it is your responsibility to insure the safety of your flight.  If ever you are given instructions that you feel that you can not comply with you need to respond with the magic word, "unable."

#2. The easiest way to handle that would be to file a composite flight plan.

#3. Requirements for flying across borders change from time to time.  Keeping up with different country requirements is something I do not normally do.  I suggest that you contact the AOPA.  If you are not a member, you should become one.  They offer an up to date service on that very subject.
I enjoy your questions Korey.  I would like to offer one more piece of advice.  If you are going to be a serious instrument pilot, I strongly urge you to become very familar with the AIM.  It is a wealth of information and a great resource.  It will also help you pass the oral portion of your practical exam.

Good Luck
Dave