What is required of a PIC for international flights before departure?

For international flights, the pilot-in-command (PIC) has the responsibility of ensuring that all procedural and regulatory requirements are fulfilled prior to departure. Advising customs and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MAF) of the estimated time of arrival (ETA) at least two hours in advance is a crucial requirement. This notification allows customs and MAF to prepare for the aircraft's arrival, ensuring that any necessary inspections or procedures can be conducted efficiently.

This requirement helps facilitate the smooth processing of passengers and cargo upon arrival, which is important for national security and biosecurity, given the risks associated with international travel. Being proactive in notifying customs and MAF about the ETA supports compliance with legal obligations and aids in maintaining a clear line of communication between the aircraft and ground authorities.

Other requirements listed, while important in their own right, do not cover the critical necessity of timely notification to customs and MAF in the context of international flights. Thus, advising these authorities is a fundamental step for the PIC to manage before departure effectively.