U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently opened a new general aviation processing facility for the PAZOS Fixed Base Operator (FBO) at the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) in Carolina, Puerto Rico.
CBP said the new general aviation facility (GAF) was built in compliance with CBP standards and guidelines to provide inspection of international flights and travelers, with no cost falling upon CBP.
“CBP welcomes the opportunity to work with private sector with the goal of improving the traveler experience upon arrival into the United States, therefore increasing tourism and fostering economic growth while ensuring the highest level of security,” said Marcelino Borges, CBP director of field operations in Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.
PAZOS is a full-service aviation FBO, with services including flight permits, planning, support services and ground support.
Jose Maldonado, president of PAZOS FBO Services, said having CBP located within the new, modern FBP will make entry into the United States a “secured and pleasant experience for travelers.” Additionally, he said the move will shorten the time between disembarking from an aircraft and entering CBP, while making a connecting flight into the U.S. a seamless process.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of the nation’s borders at and between the official ports of entry.