Customs at PHX (and other overflight questions)

[dans2992]

Has anyone ever done GA customs at PHX?

Considering a flight from Puerto Penasco to the Phoenix area. Rather then diverting to Yuma or Nogales, it would save probably 1 hour of flight time to get the overflight permit and go to either SDL or PHX.

Another question - the overflight rules state that I must be at or above 12,500 unless otherwise directed by ATC. If I am in radar contact, request lower, and ATC clears me lower, is that then acceptable? (I've technically been "directed" by ATC, right?).

Can I pick up my IFR clearance just south of the border from US ATC and use that for border crossing? I don't think Puerto Penasco has a tower, and I think Mexican ATC is non-existant in that area at lower altitudes anyhow.

 

[CT4ME]

Shortly after leaving MMPE, after about 6500 ft, you should be able to contact Prescott Radio... to open your plan and coordinate the border crossing squawk code

 

[NJP_MAN]

Why not Tuscon? Won't be too much of a diversion and I have been told it is easier than PHX. I know you can clear in SDL if you schedule it with Kennedy. I don't know anything about departing Rocky point though.

Edit : I could be wrong but I don't think you need a overflight permit to clear in Tucson either.

 

[CT4ME]

Yes, you can clear in Tucson. No overfly or special notices needed... nice friendly staff. In & out in 10 minutes last time.