Customs Notification Service (ADCUS)

The Customs Notification Service (ADCUS) — Advise Customs — is a notation on a flight plan that alerts Canadian or US customs authorities that an aircraft intends to land at an airport of entry. When ADCUS is included in the flight plan, ATC/FSS notifies customs in advance of the aircraft’s estimated arrival.

International Flights

All aircraft entering Canada from a foreign country must land at a designated customs airport, notify customs of the intended arrival, and not disembark passengers until customs clearance is obtained. In Canada, prior notification must be given at least one hour before arrival at a customs airport (two hours at some locations during off-hours).

How to File ADCUS

Include “ADCUS” in the remarks section of the ICAO flight plan (field 18). When using Canadian automated flight plan systems, a specific field is provided for customs notification. Always verify customs hours of operation for your destination before departure.

Related Terms

See also: Flight Plan/Notification, Arrival Report.