FAA regulations for aircraft ferry flights and special flight permits

Navigating the Skies: Understanding FAA Regulations for Ferry Flights and Special Flight Permits

For aircraft owners and operators, ensuring the airworthiness of their valuable assets is paramount. However, there are instances when an aircraft, though capable of safe flight, may not meet all applicable airworthiness requirements for a standard flight.¹ This is where the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides a crucial pathway: the Special Flight Permit, commonly known as a “ferry permit.”² Understanding the regulations surrounding these permits is essential for keeping your aircraft operational and minimizing downtime.

WHAT IS A SPECIAL FLIGHT PERMIT?

A Special Flight Permit is an authorization issued by the FAA that allows an aircraft to be operated for a specific purpose, even if it does not currently comply with all airworthiness regulations.³ It’s important to distinguish that a ferry permit does not grant a blanket waiver of FAA regulations, but rather permits operation under clearly defined conditions and limitations.⁴ This permit is a testament to the FAA’s commitment to safety while providing necessary flexibility for aircraft owners.

Think of it this way: if you need to move a car that has a flat tire to a repair shop, you wouldn’t drive it on the highway. Instead, you’d get a tow. A ferry permit acts as a “special tow” for your aircraft, allowing it to move safely to a location where necessary repairs, alterations, or maintenance can be performed. Many aircraft owners, having gone through the process, will attest that obtaining a ferry permit is often quicker and simpler than they initially anticipate, particularly with the right mechanic on their side.⁵

COMMON PURPOSES FOR FERRY FLIGHTS

The FAA outlines several common scenarios where a Special Flight Permit may be issued.⁶ These include:

• Relocation for Repairs or Maintenance: The most frequent reason for a ferry permit is to move an aircraft to a maintenance base or storage facility for repairs, alterations, or an overdue inspection (such as an annual inspection). This is particularly useful when an aircraft goes “out of annual” at an airport without adequate maintenance facilities.
• Delivery or Export: Permits can be issued for delivering new aircraft to their purchasers or for exporting an aircraft out of the United States.⁷
• Production Flight Testing: New production aircraft may require ferry permits for initial flight testing.⁸
• Evacuation from Danger: In emergency situations, such as an impending natural disaster like a hurricane, a ferry permit can be issued to move an aircraft to safety.
• Customer Demonstration Flights: For new production aircraft that have successfully completed flight tests, permits can be issued for customer demonstration flights.⁹
• Overweight Operations: In specific, non-commercial scenarios, a permit can authorize an aircraft to operate at a weight exceeding its maximum certificated takeoff weight, typically for extended range flights requiring additional fuel.

THE APPLICATION PROCESS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

To obtain a Special Flight Permit, the aircraft owner (or an authorized agent) must submit an application to the FAA, typically via FAA Form 8130-6, the Application for Airworthiness Certificate.¹⁰ The application requires specific information, including:

• The precise purpose of the flight.
• The proposed itinerary (departure, destination, and any necessary fuel stops).¹¹
• The crew required for the flight.¹²
• A clear explanation of how the aircraft does not comply with applicable airworthiness requirements.
• Any suggested restrictions necessary to ensure safe operation.¹³
• Any other information the FAA deems necessary for prescribing operating limitations.¹⁴

Crucially, before submitting the application, it is highly recommended to have an FAA-certificated Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic, or a Part 145 Repair Station, inspect the aircraft. This mechanic or repair station must then make a logbook entry certifying that the aircraft is in a safe condition for the proposed ferry flight. This “safe to ferry” certification is a lower standard than full airworthiness but is vital for the FAA’s consideration. Without this certification, the FAA may require an Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) to physically inspect the aircraft, which can delay the process.

Once the application and the mechanic’s certification are reviewed and found in compliance, the FAA will issue FAA Form 8130-7 (Special Airworthiness Certificate) along with a separate sheet detailing the operating limitations for the ferry flight. These limitations often include requirements for visual flight rules (VFR), day-only operations, and restricting occupants to only essential crew members. It is imperative that both the Special Flight Permit and its operating limitations are displayed in the aircraft during the flight.

AUTHORITY AND ASSURANCE

The FAA’s rigorous process for issuing Special Flight Permits underscores their commitment to aviation safety. By requiring a certified mechanic’s sign-off and outlining specific operating limitations, they ensure that even non-fully airworthy aircraft can be moved safely when necessary. As an aircraft owner, adhering to these regulations not only ensures compliance but also reinforces the safety culture within the aviation community.

The Aero Center, serving California, Arizona, and Nevada, understands the critical nature of maintaining your aircraft. We recognize that unexpected mechanical issues can arise at any time, requiring a rapid response. That’s why we are proud to be the only 24/7 maintenance center in the area, significantly reducing your airplane’s downtime. When you face a situation requiring a ferry flight, our experienced and FAA-certified technicians are available around the clock to perform the necessary “safe to ferry” inspections and provide the essential logbook endorsements, getting your aircraft ready for its permit application and minimizing delays. Our commitment to swift, reliable service means you can get your aircraft to our facility, or any other, with confidence and compliance.

Footnotes

1. FAA Special Flight Permits
2. 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H – Production Certificates, Airworthiness Certificates, and Special Flight Permits
3. Aviation Consumer – Aircraft Ferry Permits
4. Savvy Aviation – Ferry Permits

The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.