Universal Weather Reviews the 2014 World Cup Brazil; Tips for Business Aviation Operators

HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwired - Nov 18, 2013) - For business aviation operators planning to be in Brazil during the 2014 World Cup, Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. is recommending they should begin trip planning without delay due to all facilities and services being in very short supply during this time. The games will take place Jun. 12 - Jul. 13, 2014 with the finals held Jul. 12-13 in Brasilia and Rio de Janeiro.

Twelve cities across Brazil will host the games and general aviation (GA) is expected to carry 11% of the anticipated 600,000 international spectators. Initiatives are underway to increase airport and Air Traffic Control (ATC) personnel and boost airport facilities/technology to support the increased air traffic during the period of the games.

"It's expected that all primary airports will require slots and/or Prior Permission Required (PPRs) during the games," said Andre Camargo, Country Manager, Universal Aviation Brazil. "Non-official sources report that PPRs and airport slots will be granted one month prior to the games. After this application period, no additional authorizations will be issued." Many smaller, domestic airports are not Airports of Entry (AOEs), and some may not have English-speaking ATCs. "Because many airports are already congested, we recommend that aircraft parking be requested as soon as schedule is known," advised Camargo. "Be aware that there may be situations where you will be required to drop off/pick up passengers and depart."

All operations to Brazil, to include overflights and landings, require permits. "Permits can take up to 48 hours to obtain, and be aware that a Temporary Admission (TA) is required for foreign-registered aircraft in order to operate domestically within Brazil," advises Camargo. To obtain a TA, operators will need to provide the following: aircraft registration and certificate of airworthiness, crew certificates showing type and medicals, and aircraft insurance policy.

Visas are necessary for all crew who do not possess certificates issued by a national governing aviation entity. Camargo points out, "Passenger visa requirements must be checked prior to operating to Brazil, and it's important to note that passenger visas cannot be obtained upon arrival."

Brazil's larger cities have a selection of 4- and 5-star crew accommodation options; however, options are limited at smaller locations. "Accommodations are expected to sell out at all event venues during the games, so expect prices to be higher and cancellation policies to be extended. Book now, as there will likely be very limited options later on," recommended Camargo.

Camargo also recommended staying abreast of NOTAMs issuances for each of the cities hosting the games, as well as crew and passengers ensure they have the proper documents and immunizations before operating to Brazil. "Operators should be advised that the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends Yellow Fever vaccinations for travel to Brazil -- allowing 10 days post inoculation prior to Brazil entry. Brazil, however, does not require these vaccinations."

For more information on the World Cup, as well as other business aviation operational information, visit http://www.universalweather.com/blog. For assistance making arrangements, visit http://www.universalaviation.aero/brazil.

About Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.
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