1800 WX BRIEF
Steve,
If you're planning x-ctry flying then it's worth getting used to the breifing system in the US. It's a freephone number, and a bit of a one stop shop covering weather, notams and filing.
I've always found them to be very helpful, and by talking them through your route they will cross check for any last minute TFR (temporary flight restirctions). With the election coming later in the year the white house roadshows will be in full swing and there are "roving" TFRs that follow the president and other top brass around. The 1800 - WX BRIEF service will update you just before you fly - good policy with the current security atmosphere.
Other than that the main differences I've found are:
- Financial: you'll put your hand in your pocket a lot less, particularly with free landings / approaches.
- ATC: service is more widely available and as discussed by others the flight following service should be used whenever it's available.
- Airspace: Brush up on the different classes of airspace (or more importantly their US interpretation). particularly if you're not familiar with class E airpace. Aopa have a good overview on the ASF pages of their site.
- Hotels: If going x-c make sure you ask the FBO for to book it for you at their rates. They usually have access to block rates, and they sometimes get you better rooms (pilot facilities).
- Most FBOs ("handling agents") will have crew cars. These are usually available for free for a short period - useful for going into town for a meal etc.
Drop me a PM if you need more info.
N Reg.
After thought: One of the routes that I've flown before is FL - south carolina - washinton - new York - Niagra - boston - texas - FL. Certainly beats drilling holes in the sky and you get a good mix of major / minor airports. Do you have an IR?