Special flight authorizations for foreign civil aircraft

This regulation allows foreign civil aircraft to fly in U.S. airspace without the standard airworthiness certificates normally required under § 91.203. To do so, the aircraft operator must obtain a special flight authorization from the FAA.

Applications go to the appropriate Flight Standards Division Manager or Aircraft Certification Service Division Director. For aircraft coming to demonstrate at an airshow, you can apply through the office responsible for that airshow's location.

The FAA can attach whatever conditions and limitations it deems necessary for safe operation when issuing these authorizations. This gives the agency flexibility to permit operations while maintaining safety standards.

Any operation under this authorization must also comply with Department of Transportation Special Regulations in 14 CFR part 375, which governs foreign air carrier operations.

This matters primarily for foreign aircraft operators bringing aircraft to the U.S. for demonstrations, delivery flights, or other special purposes without full U.S. certification.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*