Aircraft Ferry Permits: FAA Special Flight Permit Guide
Need to Move an Aircraft With an Overdue Inspection or Maintenance Issue?
An aircraft that cannot currently operate under its normal airworthiness requirements may still be eligible for a specific flight—but only when it can be flown safely and the required authorization is obtained.
Ferry Flight USA helps owners plan aircraft repositioning requests involving maintenance needs, overdue inspections, and other circumstances that may require a ferry permit.
Start by sharing the aircraft’s condition, location, and intended destination. Eligibility and approval must be established before the flight is scheduled.
Request a Ferry Flight Review and Quote
What Is an Aircraft Ferry Permit?
A ferry permit is commonly called an FAA Special Flight Permit. It may authorize a flight for an aircraft that does not currently meet applicable airworthiness requirements but is capable of safe flight for an eligible purpose.
A permit applies to the authorized operation and its limitations. It does not restore unrestricted airworthiness or excuse compliance with unrelated operating requirements.
Does Every Ferry Flight Require a Permit?
No. “Ferry flight” also describes ordinary aircraft delivery and repositioning.
An airworthy airplane being delivered after a sale does not need a special flight permit merely because a hired pilot is moving it. The question is whether the aircraft and proposed operation meet the applicable requirements without special authorization.
Identify any overdue inspections, unresolved discrepancies, or other concerns during the initial review.
When Might a Special Flight Permit Be Needed?
Eligible purposes include moving an aircraft to a location for repairs, alterations, maintenance, or storage. An aircraft with an expired annual inspection may qualify for a flight to a facility where the inspection can be completed.
Other eligible purposes include certain delivery or export flights and evacuation from an area of impending danger. Eligibility depends on the aircraft and circumstances; approval is not automatic.
What a Ferry Permit Cannot Do
A permit cannot make an unsafe aircraft suitable for flight. Some discrepancies must be repaired before any movement by air can be considered.
Applicable airworthiness directives also need review because they can affect eligibility. Disclose all known issues rather than assuming the permit will address them collectively.
If the aircraft cannot qualify for the proposed flight, discuss maintenance at its current location or another transportation method.
How to Get an Aircraft Ferry Permit
1. Establish the Aircraft’s Condition
Have appropriately qualified maintenance personnel assess the aircraft and document its discrepancies. Gather relevant records and explain why it does not currently meet the applicable airworthiness requirements.
2. Define the Proposed Flight
Identify the purpose, departure airport, destination, proposed itinerary, and required crew. Explain any restrictions considered necessary for safe operation.
3. Submit the Application
Coordinate with the FAA office responsible for the departure location or an appropriately authorized FAA designee.
The FAA provides an online application process through its Airworthiness Certification portal. Follow the reviewing office’s instructions for the application and supporting documents.
4. Complete Required Inspections or Tests
The FAA may require inspections or tests to establish that the aircraft can safely complete the proposed operation. Resolve those requirements before departure.
5. Review the Issued Permit and Limitations
The pilot must review the actual authorization and comply with its conditions. Confirm that the planned flight matches what was approved. An application submission is not permission to depart.
Information to Prepare Before Requesting a Flight
Providing complete information early helps identify what needs further review.
Prepare:
- Aircraft make, model, registration number, and serial number.
- Current location and proposed destination.
- Reason the aircraft needs to move.
- Inspection status and known discrepancies.
- Relevant maintenance records.
- Mechanic or repair facility contact information.
- Owner or authorized representative’s contact details.
- Preferred dates and scheduling flexibility.
- Permit application status, if already started.
- Any issued permit and accompanying limitations.
Describe each known issue specifically. “Needs an annual” may not fully explain the condition of an aircraft that has also been parked for an extended period.
Coordinate the Flight With the Receiving Shop
Before arranging pickup, confirm that the destination facility is prepared to receive the aircraft.
Establish the receiving contact, parking location, access instructions, and intended maintenance work. Let the facility know that the arrival date depends on aircraft readiness, authorization, pilot availability, and weather.
Keep pilot travel arrangements aligned with actual readiness rather than an assumed approval date.
Confirm Insurance Separately
A special flight permit and insurance coverage address different matters.
Tell your aviation insurance representative about the aircraft’s condition and the proposed permit flight. Ask for confirmation of applicable coverage and pilot requirements before departure.
See our Aircraft Insurance Guide for questions to discuss with your insurance representative.
How Ferry Flight USA Fits Into the Process
Contact Ferry Flight USA to discuss the proposed aircraft movement and the information needed to evaluate the trip.
The owner, maintenance provider, FAA or authorized designee, insurer, and proposed pilot each have a role. Ferry coordination does not replace maintenance findings or permit approval.
Once the aircraft status and authorization are established, flight arrangements can be evaluated against the approved limitations, route, and required pilot qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move an airplane with an expired annual inspection?
It may qualify for a special flight permit to reach a facility where the annual can be performed, provided it is capable of safe flight and the required approval is obtained. An expired annual does not establish eligibility by itself.
Can my mechanic issue the ferry permit?
A mechanic can perform applicable inspections and provide maintenance documentation, but an A&P or IA credential alone does not grant permit-issuing authority. Issuance is through the FAA or an appropriately authorized designee.
Can I carry passengers?
Do not assume passengers are permitted. Review the issued limitations and confirm who is authorized to be aboard before making travel arrangements.
How long does approval take?
Timing depends on the application, aircraft condition, required inspections, and reviewing office or designee. Avoid committing to a fixed departure before approval and readiness are confirmed.
Can I change the destination after approval?
Do not assume the permit covers a different trip. Contact the issuing authority about changes to the authorized route, destination, dates, or conditions before proceeding.
How much does a permit-related ferry flight cost?
Costs depend on the aircraft, inspections or repairs needed, any designee services, pilot requirements, route, and travel arrangements. Ask for a breakdown separating flight services from other expenses.
Discuss Your Aircraft Ferry Request
If your aircraft needs to reach a maintenance facility, begin with a clear description of its condition and the intended move.
Send Ferry Flight USA your aircraft details, known discrepancies, current airport, and destination so the proposed flight can be evaluated.