Thanks for the information - it definitely matches what I experienced. I just joined as a member after flying this route so I learned the hard way.
MPMG - MPLB - MNMG - MSSS - MRPV - MPDA - MPMG
The member site is great but let me add some things that I learned:
- NEVER go to MRLB. I don't care how much the fuel costs in MNMG, those people are the worst. I was delayed hours by those "handlers" and had to file IFR for my arrival at MNMG which happened after dark. Avoid avoid avoid.
- MSSS is just about the friendliest airport I've ever been to. Totally and wholeheartedly recommended. You would never guess that it would be this way, given that it's a military base but everyone there is super relaxed, helpful and friendly. It's also very reasonably priced - all fees for landing and overnight parking came to less than $20. I can't say enough good things about MSSS. Fuel service is done by the Aero Club and is friendly and efficient, but be prepared to pay cash.
- There's no fuel anywhere in Panama except MPMG. MPDA used to have fuel but the tanks are "contaminated".
- MPMG is my home airport so I'm used to the somewhat unorthodox approach into it but if you're unfamiliar, I highly recommend advising the tower. You basically land between two hills. If you're in a light aircraft, I recommend staying above the smaller one on final because of turbulence. Be VERY cautious of birds as they tend to flock between those two hills for runway 36, right on your final approach. If tower says "caution birds", take it seriously. Runway 18 requires flying over some built up areas of the city and landing with a hill descending below you. I prefer 36.
- In Panama be careful not to overfly the prohibited airspace over the presidential palace, which is in the old city. If If you avoid overflying anything inside the road encircling the old city, you'll be fine. This is particularly relevant on a downwind leg to 36 or 18.
- Also be careful in Panama not to fly over the US Embassy which is about 5 degrees to the west of the departure for 36. You'll normally be told to "fly runway heading" but if there's a crosswind be careful not to be blown over top of it. You can spot it by the vast array of huge satellite dishes and the big grey government-issue buildings. There's even a swimming pool. This installation is of course just there for issuing visas and passport renewals...
- MRPV is better than MRLB but I'm detecting a theme with Costa Ricans and aviation, the immigration and customs people there are somewhat frustrating although not nearly as bad as MRLB. Fuel service is prompt and efficient, just leave your credit card with the nice ladies at the fuel desk and they'll charge the exact amount when your tanks are full.
- According to people on the ground, MRPV is often very windy. Take this into account, as well as the steep hill leading up to the approach end of the runway when you are landing.
- When I flew the VFR corridor from MRPV to the coast, there were a lot of clouds. I recommend climbing to safe altitude long before entering the corridor.
