Brazil

[treefifeniner]

Hello all. I have my first trip to Brazil next month, specifically, Sao Paulo. Has anyone been there in recent memory that may give me the run down? (ATC, Customs, hotels, etc.) Thanks in advance.

 

[sigler]

What airport are you flying into? You said Sao Paulo so I'll assume either SBGR or SBSP. If you're planning on SBSP you'll have to stop at an airport of entry first, if you're coming form the US most people chose SBEG for that. If you're going to SBGR, here's what I can tell you: ATC throught Brazil kind of sucks, controllers are not very efficient and most of them speak very basic English only, anything out of the ordinary will stumble them. I will say however that they tend to be overly cautious, applying large separations, etc, so safety is usually not put in jeopardy. As for Customs, you'll have to go through the main (airline) terminal to clear both customs and immigration, so expect the same treatment as a regular airline crew or passenger would have. Early morning arrivals should be avoided since most Int'l flights arrive at that time and you and your passengers will have to face long lines to clear customs. As far as hotels are concerned, most international hotel chains can be found in Sao Paulo such as the Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, etc, so no worries there. If you have any other questions feel free to PM me.

 

[landlover]

did you get a brazilian visa yet?

 

[G3G4]

Also in SBGR if you are planning on keeping the airplane there they do not allow younto stay for more than a day. Sometimes if requested they can allow parking on the military ramp. You will have to pay of course. If they don't have parking you will have to move the airplane to congonhas. If using universal speak with Marcia Tao. She speaks very good english. They did a great job for us. SBGR is a pain in the butt but only choice if coming in internationally.

 

[treefifeniner]

Thanks for all the info. Yes, have the Brazilian visa. We'll be clearing customs at SBGR then on to SBSP. Any good recommendations for food and recreation? We'll be staying 4 or 5 nights.

 

[DC3Flyer]

Brazilian Visa

did you get a brazilian visa yet?

It's a good idea to get the Brazilian Visa for flight crew although it's not required. Our company wouldn't let the pilots get them because they don't want to spend any money at all......the flight attendant had to because she wasn't a required crewmember. We've had no issues with this and we've had 4 trips to Brazil in the last year. If it were up to me I'd do it though.....

 

[transampilot]

Make sure you have a slot into SBSP if you are going for LABACE. They are very strict about making that time. Visa is easy to get but if your going for LABACE you are running out of time. In person takes 3 day, by mail 7. Yellow Fever Vaccination is reccomended. There is some non radio sections of the country in the middle slightly west of center.