United States Overflight Permits Procedures 2024

In the span of 2023-2024, the U.S. aviation sector has experienced a significant upswing, with a 16% increase in international air passenger traffic, reflecting the industry’s dynamic recovery and expansion. This growth is a testament to the sector’s resilience and innovation. A key aspect of this success is the efficient management of US overflight permits, which allows aircraft to traverse U.S. airspace seamlessly, enhancing connectivity and reinforcing the nation’s status as a central hub in the global aviation network. In the United States, overflight permits are managed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and are required for certain aircraft that wish to traverse U.S. airspace without landing. These permits are crucial for maintaining the safety, security, and efficiency of the national airspace system.

Who Needs an Overflight Permit?

In the United States, overflight permits are not typically required for most private and non-scheduled commercial aircraft. However, there are specific instances where an overflight permit or exemption is necessary:

• General Aviation: Aircraft arriving in the U.S. from certain regions may be eligible for a border overflight exemption. This exemption allows them to overfly the first designated Airport of Entry (AOE) when arriving from below the 30th parallel in the eastern U.S., and below the 33rd parallel in the western U.S., which includes flights from the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, and French Polynesia.
• Private and Non-Scheduled Commercial Aircraft: These aircraft must provide advance notice of arrival and land at designated airports for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) processing unless they have an Overflight Exemption.
• Diplomatic and Military Flights: Diplomatic and military flights usually require special overflight permits due to the sensitive nature of their operations.
• General Aviation: For flights entering the U.S. from certain regions, a border overflight exemption allows general aviation aircraft to overfly the first designated Airport of Entry (AOE) under specific conditions.

The process for obtaining an overflight permit involves submitting a request to the USA Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) whose airspace is to be used. The request must include details about the flight, such as the aircraft type, registration, route, and purpose of the flight. Political considerations, security clearances, and financial obligations, such as navigation fees, are also assessed during the permit approval process.

Types of Airspace For Flight Permits Guide

United States Airspace is categorized into different classes, each with specific regulations and requirements. The classification system is generally consistent internationally, with some local variations. Here are the main types of airspace:

Class A Airspace

Starts from 18,000 feet Mean Sea Level (MSL) up to 60,000 feet MSL. It is controlled airspace and exclusively for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) traffic. All aircraft must be on an IFR flight plan and have clearance from air traffic control (ATC) to enter.

Class B Airspace

Surrounds the nation’s busiest airports and is designed to manage a high volume of traffic. It has multiple layers, often described as an upside-down wedding cake, and requires ATC clearance for entry.

Class C Airspace

Found around airports with a moderate level of air traffic, Class C airspace also requires two-way radio communication with ATC and transponder signals with altitude reporting.

Class D Airspace

This class is for the airspace around smaller airports with an operational control tower. Entry requires two-way radio communication with the tower.

Class E Airspace

Controlled airspace not classified as Class A, B, C, or D. It includes all instrument flight rules (IFR) routes, and while ATC clearance is not required for Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flights, it’s recommended.

Class G Airspace

This is uncontrolled airspace where ATC has no authority to control air traffic. Pilots can fly in Class G airspace without ATC clearance or communication.

The US Overflight Permits Process

The process for obtaining an US overflight permit involves coordination with the FAA and adherence to the regulations set forth in the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). The FAA evaluates each request based on the type of operation, aircraft registration, and the specifics of the intended flight path.

Lead Time for United States Overflight Permits Procedure

For unscheduled business flights, the FAA typically requires applications to be submitted at least 48 working hours prior to the scheduled departure. This allows sufficient time for the review and processing of the US overflight permits request.

Application Procedures

Typically, these requests include the following:

• A detailed flight schedule.
• Entry and exit points along with the Air Traffic Control (ATC) route.
• Information about the lead passenger or cargo details, as applicable.
• A complete set of aircraft documents, such as the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), Certificate of Airworthiness (COA), Certificate of Insurance (COI), and other relevant documents.

Required Documentation for United States Overflight Permits Procedure

The required documentation for an overflight permit includes:

• Flight Schedule: The exact timings, including departure and arrival, must be provided.
• ATC Route: Entry and exit points, along with the filed ATC flight plan.
• Passenger/Cargo Details: For passenger flights, details of the all passenger; for cargo flights, consignee and consigner information.
• Aircraft Documents: Valid Aircraft Operator Certificate (AOC), Certificate of Airworthiness (COA), Certificate of Insurance (COI), Certificate of Registration (CON), and Certificate of Radio (COR) documentation that verifies the aircraft’s compliance with aviation standards.

It’s important to note that the overflight permit is valid for a period of +24 hours from the approved time, allowing for flexibility in case of any unforeseen changes in the flight schedule.

The above procedures and requirements are designed to ensure that all aircraft operating in U.S. airspace meet the stringent safety and regulatory standards set by the FAA and international aviation bodies. Compliance with these procedures is mandatory for all unscheduled business flights seeking to overfly U.S. territory. For the latest and most detailed information, consult Just Aviation to stay updated and enhance your operations.

Border Overflight Exemption (BOE)

The Border Overflight Exemption is a provision that allows certain general aviation aircraft to bypass the first designated Airport of Entry (AOE) when arriving in the U.S. from specific regions. Here’s how the BOE works:

• Eligibility: Applies to flights arriving from below the 30th parallel in the eastern U.S., and below the 33rd parallel in the western U.S., covering flights from the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, and French Polynesia.
• Processing Time: The CBP processes BOE applications within a maximum of 30 days, and there are no fees associated with this process.
• Documentation: The standard email template provided by CBP guides applicants through the process, ensuring all necessary information is included.

Contingency Plans for USA Airspace Activities

Contingency plans are critical for ensuring the continuity of air traffic control services in the event of system disruptions or emergencies. Here’s an overview of the operational contingency plans:

Air Traffic Control Operational Contingency Plans

These plans are designed to address potential disruptions in air traffic control operations. They outline procedures for maintaining control and safety during unforeseen events.

Comprehensive Oversight Plan for Overseas Contingency Operations

Although primarily focused on military operations, this plan includes strategies for maintaining U.S. activities in support of ongoing overseas contingency operations, which can indirectly affect civil aviation.

These procedures and exemptions are integral to the regulatory framework ensuring the safe and efficient use of U.S. airspace. Operators must stay updated on regulatory changes and fully comply with all FAA requirements. If you have any questions or need further details about these contingency plans, feel free to contact Just Aviation before your U.S. flight operations.

FAQs

1. Are general aviation aircraft arriving from areas south of the United States required to provide advance notice of arrival?

Yes, general aviation aircraft arriving from the south of the United States must provide advance notice of arrival. This is to ensure compliance with U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) regulations

2. How long does it take to process a Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) application?

The CBP states that BOE processing will take no more than thirty days.

3. What are the benefits of having a Border Overflight Exemption (BOE)?

With a BOE, operators can overfly the first designated Airport of Entry (AOE) and operate directly to their destination in the U.S. This exemption applies when arriving into the U.S. from below the 30th parallel in the Eastern U.S., and below the 33rd parallel in the Western U.S. It allows for optimized mission itineraries, improved safety by reducing takeoff/landing cycles, and reduced fuel and maintenance expenses.

4. What is the validity period for United States Overflight Permits Procedure?

A United States Overflight Permit is typically valid for +24 hours from the time of issuance.

5. Are there any specific regulations for the transport of troops, equipment, materials, and dangerous goods?

Yes, as a signatory to the Chicago Convention, the United States requires that the conditions of flights and crews strictly comply with ICAO general rules of international air traffic, especially in accordance with regulations for the transport of troops, equipment, materials, and dangerous goods.

6. Who will issue air navigation bills for United States Overflight Permits?

The United States Civil Aviation Authority will issue air navigation bills directly to the airline or operator.

7. What are the working hours of the United States Civil Aviation Authority?

The working hours of the United States Civil Aviation Authority are from 0100Z to 1000Z.

8. How is the airspace of the United States organized?

The airspace of the United States is currently divided into twenty-six flight information regions (FIRs).

9. Are general aviation aircraft arriving from areas south of the United States required to provide advance notice of arrival?

Yes, operators of general aviation aircraft arriving from areas south of the United States must provide advance notice of arrival and land at designated airports listed in 19 CFR § 122.24(b). This is for U.S. Customs and Border Protection processing, unless exempted through an Overflight Exemption pursuant to 19 CFR § 122.25, which provides an exemption from special landing requirements.

Navigating the complexities of United States Overflight Permits procedures is made seamless and efficient with the expertise of Just Aviation. Our dedicated team ensures that all types of flight permissions, including Overflight Permits, Landing Permits, and Special Flight Permits, are obtained promptly, even on short notice. With our deep understanding of aviation regulations and commitment to precision and compliance, Just Aviation stands as a reliable partner for operators seeking to streamline their flight operations across U.S. airspace.