JUST 56 NAUTICAL MILES OFF THE COAST OF FLORIDA LIES THE PERFECT OPPORUNITY FOR A NEW pilot to make a border crossing and cross off a bucket list item while soaking up some sunshine. The Bahamas welcomes pilots from the United States, including sport pilots as well as those who fly under BasicMed.You can depart the United States from any airport. Florida's Treasure Coast International Airport in Fort Pierce (FPR) and Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) have excellent FBOs that will ensure you have appropriate safety equipment (flotation vests, rafts) if you need to make any last-minute purchases or rentals.You must land at a Bahamas airport of entry to clear Customs, even if you plan to go to other islands during your visit. We suggest first-timers land at Grand Bahama International Airport (MYGF) in Freeport, which has plentiful GA parking, fuel, and a customs office-as well as numerous lodging options. At customs you can complete Form C7A that lets you hop from island to island. A busy tourist destination, Freeport makes a perfect base from which you can explore some of the other islands, such as Staniel Cay and its swimming pigs; Great Harbour Cay, where you'll likely run into likeminded pilots searching for a delicious lunch; or Crooked Island, where you can try bonefishing.
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