Fly Further Afield
Fly further afield — Gary organises group flying trips across the world. From the red rocks of Arizona to the Florida sunshine, and the Caucasus wine country of Georgia, these are adventures built for pilots.
Flying Adventures Organised by Gary
Gary organises group flying expeditions for GMC Aviation members and fellow pilots. Whether you want to fly low and slow over the Arizona desert, explore Florida's coastline from the air, or touch down at the spectacular Aviation Village in Kachreti, Georgia, Gary handles the logistics so you can focus on the flying. All trips are open to group bookings — get in touch to register your interest.
Aviation Village Georgia
An immersive aviation experience based at the stunning Aviation Village in Kachreti, Georgia — nestled in the Caucasus wine country. Fly in, stay on-site, and spend your days surrounded by aircraft, hangars, and fellow aviation enthusiasts. A bucket-list destination for any serious pilot.
Discover Arizona
Fly out of Falcon Field (KFFZ) in Mesa, Arizona — one of the busiest general aviation airports in the US. Gary organises the group, the aircraft, and the routes. Expect stunning desert scenery, clear skies, and some of the best VFR flying in North America.
Florida Flying
Based out of Miami Executive Airport (KTMB), this trip puts you in the heart of South Florida's incredible flying environment. Coastal routes, the Keys, the Everglades — all within easy reach. Gary organises groups to join him on this trip regularly.
Expedition Diary
Dates for upcoming expeditions are being confirmed. Check back soon — Gary will be posting new dates for both the Arizona and Florida trips shortly.
Diary dates coming soon — watch this space.
Register your interest below and Gary will be in touch as soon as dates are confirmed.
Get Your FAA Licence
UK pilots can convert their CAA licence to a U.S. FAA Private Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR 61.75 — the 'piggyback' route. No written exam, no flight test. Just paperwork, a visit to an FSDO, and you're legal to fly in the US.
Create an IACRA Account
Register at iacra.faa.gov to get your FAA Tracking Number (FTN) and apply for a foreign-based FAA licence.
Request FAA Verification
Submit FAA Form 8060-71 in IACRA. The FAA contacts the UK CAA directly to verify your licence.
Authorise the UK CAA
Complete form SRG1160 online and pay the £61 verification fee. The CAA sends confirmation directly to the FAA.
Arrange a U.S. Agent
If you have no U.S. address of record, designate a U.S. agent for service at usas.faa.gov and arrange UK mail forwarding if needed.
Receive the FAA Letter
Your verification letter appears in IACRA. Allow 45–90 days — some cases are quicker. The letter is usually valid for six months.
Book Your U.S. Appointment
Contact a Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or authorised examiner and complete the certificate application in IACRA as directed.
Attend in Person
Bring your passport, UK licence, medical, verification letter, and any requested records. If approved, you receive a temporary airman certificate on the day.
Your Permanent Card
The FAA posts your permanent certificate after processing. Allow around three months — delivery times vary.
UK CAA / FAA guidance checked October 2026. Fees and processing times can change. Your foreign-based certificate remains linked to your UK licence — meet FAA flight review, medical, and currency requirements before flying.
Interested in Joining?
Whether you're a GMC Aviation member or a fellow pilot looking to join a group trip, get in touch with Gary to register your interest. Places are limited.