What is an overflight permit?

An overflight permit is an authorization issued by a country's civil aviation authority that allows a foreign aircraft to transit through its airspace without landing. Not all countries require them, but many do, especially for non-scheduled and private flights.

How far in advance do I need to apply for a landing permit?

Lead times vary widely by country. Some countries process permits in 24 hours, while others require 15 working days for non-scheduled commercial flights. Air ambulance operations often get expedited processing.

Which countries require overflight permits?

Most countries require overflight permits for non-scheduled and private flights. Notable examples include Russia, China, India, Brazil, and most African nations. European airspace managed by EUROCONTROL generally does not require individual overflight permits for civil flights.

What is the difference between overflight and landing permits?

An overflight permit covers transiting a country's airspace without landing. A landing permit authorizes an aircraft to land at an airport within that country. They are separate authorizations and both may be required depending on the operation.

Overflight and Landing Permit Requirements

153 countries with permit data, maintained by the aviation community

153 Countries

90 Overflight Required

105 Landing Required

5 Regions

International flights need more than fuel and a flight plan. Most countries require overflight permits, landing permits, or both before a foreign aircraft can enter their airspace or touch down. The rules, lead times, and paperwork vary from one country to the next. This page brings it all together. Filter by region or lead time and jump straight to the country you need.

How Overflight and Landing Permits Work

An overflight permit authorizes a foreign aircraft to transit through a country's airspace without landing. A landing permit authorizes it to land at an airport within that country. They are separate authorizations, and many countries require both.

Who needs permits depends on the type of operation. Scheduled airlines typically operate under bilateral air service agreements that cover permits automatically. Non-scheduled commercial flights (charter, air taxi) almost always need individual permits. Private and general aviation flights need them too, often with different lead times.

Every country publishes its rules in an Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP), the official reference for operating in that country's airspace. Lead times range from a few hours (air ambulance) to 30 days (some commercial charter operations). Start early, use a local handler when possible, and always confirm that your specific aircraft registration is approved for the destination.

Related Resources

Overflight and Landing Permits: What Pilots Must Know

Route Planner with FIR Crossings