A new permitting rule discontinuing the Mexico Annual/Multiple Entry permits for private operators was issued in May 2023 with an effective date of January 1, 2024. This change was made as an effort by AFAC to combat illegal charter operations in Mexico.
Under the new rule, private operators are now required to obtain a Single Entry Authorization (AIU) that will be valid for 180 days from the initial date of aircraft arrival. Multiple international flights and operations throughout Mexico are allowed during the 180 days as long as the original AIU document is kept onboard.
Private operators must provide local authorities in Mexico with the flight, aircraft, and crew information prior to the aircraft’s departure and the AUI will be received upon arrival. In addition to the current required documentation for this type of authorization, the “Layout of Passenger Accommodations” information from the Cargo and Balance Manual must be included.
The new rule only applies to part 91 flights. Part 135 flights are not impacted, and “blanket permits” remain in effect for charter operations. More information about the new permitting measures can be found in this Universal Weather & Aviation, Inc. article.
Additionally, AFAC’s mandate requiring 100% fleet compliance for specific aircraft to carry certain flight data recorders (FDR) went into effect on January 1, 2024. The mandate covers certain fixed-wing turbine aircraft, based on the number of passenger seats (excluding crew seats), or fixed-wing turbine aircraft with MTOW that falls within the published rule, including cargo aircraft and aircraft operating under part 91 with a Mexican registration.
FDR Type requirements, affected aircraft, and a complete list of compliance dates are outlined in the as well as the source document – Official Mexican STANDARD NOM-022-SCT3-2011. For additional information about the FDR Mandate, please see the December 2022 NATA Member Alert.