In addition to notifying customs before arrival (CAN PASS going into
Canada and the various numbers going into the U.S.) you are required
to be on a flight plan (VFR or IFR) when crossing the boarder. In the
U.S. its as expected. In Canada it appears you call 866-WX-BRIEF to
file your flight plan. You can open your VFR flight plan with tower in
Canada. Make sure you flight plans are open before crossing.
My understanding is that after you notify Canadia customs of your
arrival there is a 90% chance they will clear you through right there
on the phone, rather than see you in person.

I'm getting ready for my first Canada but I've done Mexico many times.
Coming back to the U.S., its not unusual for customs to be very, very
late. Sometimes you must wait around for them to be ready for you.
Also, Mexican officials are there to help, U.S. officials are there to
ensure you are following every letter of every law. I understand the
same in Canada.

-Robert


(Ross Oliver) wrote in message ...
I am planning my first international flight from the Seattle area to
Port Hardy, BC, Canada during the week of July 4th. I have bought all
the relavent Canadian charts (VFR and IFR), and have Googled for previous
discussions on flying in Canada. However, I would appreciate any
tips on the actual USA - Canada transition with regard to ATC. Will
US ATC hand off VFR to Canada at the border, or will I need to
call up on my own? "Knock, knock, can I come in, eh?" Same question
for returning to the USA.

Any suggestions on routing? Is it advisable to fly over top of
Widbey Island NAS, or better to remain east and cross to the north?
What is the best route past Victoria heading up Vancouver Island's
east coast?


Thanks,
Ross Oliver