Flying Samaritans Arizona, Tucson Chapter

Pilot Information

The Flying Samaritans operates under CFR Part 91 (Private) rules and regulations. Everyone in your aircraft shares the flight costs equally. The pilot requirements are in accordance with FAA regulations. Each pilot must have at least 500 logged hours of flight time, a current medical, and a current flight review. The aircraft must be insured for a minimum of $1 million liability, either "slick" or $100,000 per occupant limit. In addition, you also need to have Mexican liability insurance and a current Customs and Border Patrol decal.

The forms for joining and renewing as a pilot are available here:

• Each pilot must agree to and sign the Flying Samaritans “Pilot’s Acknowledgment” prior to participating in any Flying Sam’s activity as pilot in command.
• Annually, with the Pilot Acknowledgement, each pilot must provide to the Chapter’s Pilot Coordinator their current medical certificate exam date and class, the date of their most recent flight review endorsement, and the date of the most recent annual inspection. 
• Each Pilot must maintain aircraft liability coverage per accident of not less than $1,000,000 on the aircraft in which they are pilot in command from a U.S. underwriter. In addition, the pilot must maintain appropriate liability insurance for Mexican aircraft operations.
• Pilots must inform the Pilot Coordinator of any changes in the above that would affect their status.

• All Pilots must maintain pilot/airman proficiency and airworthiness of aircraft flown, as per FAA requirements and any special knowledge or skills appropriate to the mission flown.
• All pilots must follow U.S. regulations by filing a flight plan exiting and reentering the U.S., returning to a designated Airport of Entry, proper notification of ADIZ transit and customs eAPIS manifest. Pilots must follow proper U.S. Customs and Immigration clearance procedures.
• All pilots must follow Mexico regulations by entering and exiting through a Mexico port of entry airport, as required, such as obtaining a flight plan, paying landing fees, and obtaining air-use permits.
• Pilots are responsible to stay current with changes in rules and regulations or operating aircraft and customs/immigration rules and regulations in both the U.S. and Mexico and comply with those regulations.
• Pilots must obtain a Mexican Tourist Visa for themselves, if required, and ensure their passengers obtain a Mexican Tourist Visa as required.
• Pilots have the right to question and search their passengers and baggage if appropriate to maintain safety or comply with laws.
• Pilots will, when possible, use a “buddy system” while on the mission flight, maintaining communication while in flight and maintaining safe separation procedures.
• The Pilot Coordinator will notify the passengers before a flight mission confirming the requirement of carrying a valid passport on the trip; the time, airport and location of departure; and the Tucson contact information.
• Upon return to Tucson, Pilots must contact the Pilot Coordinator or Tucson contact person to notify safe return of all passengers.

Flying Samaritans Arizona
Tucson Chapter
P.O. Box 40431
Tucson, AZ 85717