Has anyone experienced problems getting their firearms to clear prior to their departure? On emirates it is required you submit paperwork to the airline and on your behalf they get permission for you to bring your firearms through Dubai. You are required to submit your papers 3 days prior to the fight departure. I submitted all my required info a week ago, and I have another six days before I take off. Should I be concerned that I have yet to hear from the security folks at this point? Any tips or suggestions anyone may have would be appreciated,

Boy that is a good question. I have been to Africa 8 times but always through SA Mostly on SA air because they are familiar with carrying guns and you do not need any prior clearance other than filling out your 520 sap. I would love to try a different rout through Europe or through Dubai would be a nice change of venue But when I asked Gracy travel about it they seem reluctant to send me that way with guns . They said they had little experience with guns through Dubai. i would like to know what your experience is keep us posted

I have done it 3 times very routine. I just called them after I submitted paperwork and every time they had already approved it. I kind of like the idea they escort my gun from one plane to the other with paper work and police. Its better than wondering who had it last...

Bear country who do you use as a travel agent and did they help you with the paper work?

Bearcountry,
This is my first try with Emirates. How long did it take for you to recieve the clearence?

I have called a number of times, including today, and have not recieved a positive response. The "paperwork is still being evaluated" is the response I have been getting. Though I guess it is better then denied! I thought bypassing Jo'burg would be better on my way to Durban, and it may be yet. Time will tell, I told my PH to get his rifles in order just in csae.

If they are anything like the Dutch, they won't process it before it is due, i.e., right before you travel. That's why I use a travel agent. Steve Turner at Travel with Guns keeps on top of it and makes sure all permits are done before you leave.

I book all my own travel and deal with Emirates direct..I usually just fax over the form to there New York location..and its cleared a week or two in advance..Never had a problem or delay.

Just to follow up on this, I got word this morning that I am ready to go, 2 days prior to departure. It added a degree of anxiety that didn't really need to exist. But now everything is good to go. I had the PH getting his rifles prepared just in case.

I like the idea of faxing to the New York office, next time that is what I will do as well.