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Today, we landed at Foz de Iguazu, Brazil (SBFI), after 7 hours and 15 minutes of flight time, nestled on the border between Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Previous experiences streamlined our flight plan, ensuring a smooth 7 am takeoff. Heavenly Sunrise As we flew, clouds parted, revealing a breathtaking canvas of colors – a god-like…

Today, we tamed the Brazilian jungle skies, landing safely at Alta Floresta (SBAT) after 7 thrilling hours from Boa Vista (SBBV). But our journey almost didn’t take off. Midnight Madness Filing a flight plan seemed impossible the night before. my friend Federico and local heroes saved the day, but 3 hours of frantic phone calls,…

After immersing ourselves in Old San Juan’s vibrant culture, savoring cubano sandwiches, and indulging in mofongo for four sun-kissed days, we restarted our journey early this morning. Unstoppable Duo Dobri, sporting his iconic Texan hat, decided to join me for the southernmost leg, making long flight hours more enjoyable. Brazil Bound with Grenada Refuel Initial…

Today, we conquered the Caribbean Sea, landing at Isla Grande (TJIG), Puerto Rico, after a thrilling 7-hour flight. Words fail to capture the mix of emotions: apprehension during open-water takeoff, followed by awe-inspiring scenery – emerald islands, turquoise shores, and endless blues. Mastering the Skies At 11,500 feet, we optimized fuel efficiency by reducing RPM…

Yesterday, we reached Fort Lauderdale Executive (KFXE) in 6 hours, and we are still on track with the plan. Our early morning IFR departure treated us to stunning sunrise views above the clouds. For the first few hours, ground visibility was zero, but cloud formations captivated us. Soft light danced across their rounded peaks, creating…

Today, Team Diana soared! We stretched over 4 states from Hayward, California (KHWD) to North Texas Regional (KGYI) in under 9 hours. What a ride! Departure and Challenges We took off at 6 am, escaping the Bay Area’s incoming weather system. Our IFR flight plan to Santa Rosa Route 66, Texas (KSXU), led us through…

Tomorrow’s the day! January 3rd, 7am wheels-up, and my mind’s racing with last-minute checks. Today, I loaded Diana, my trusty plane, and met with Dobri, my adventure partner for the first few legs to Puerto Rico. We reviewed plane systems and gear, route details, and provisions. We’re set to meet at Hayward Airport (KHWD) at…

As I began loading my trusty plane, Diana, for the epic adventure, reality struck: space is limited! Months of gear accumulation now require precise Tetris-like arrangement. The harsh truth: cargo capacity in airplanes is dictated by weight, not volume and my 510lb (230kg) full-tank allowance dwindles rapidly. First, I need to consider crew and passenger…

With just a week left before departure, I’ve cleared the remaining obstacles, and relief washes over me. Today, my insurance broker confirmed coverage for the South American leg of my journey. Securing insurance for single-engine airplanes beyond the standard territory – typically covering the US, Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean – proved challenging. Not all underwriters…

The spark of adventure ignites when I share my plan to fly a small airplane from California to Argentina and back. Eyes widen, and questions pour in: “How long will it take?” “How many stops?” “Can you fly that far non-stop?” “Are you going solo?” “How long have you been flying?” “Do you own your…