Aircraft Ferry Flight and Special Flight Permit Checklist

This aircraft ferry flight and Special Flight Permit (SFP) checklist ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR 21.197 (Special Flight Permits), FAA Advisory Circular AC 21-4 (Special Flight Permits for Operation of Overweight Aircraft), FAA FSDO authorization requirements for ferry flights, and aircraft delivery flight operational requirements. Designed for maintenance directors and ferry pilots conducting ferry operations on aircraft not meeting airworthiness standards.

  • Industry: Aviation
  • Frequency: Per Event
  • Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
  • Role: Maintenance Director / Ferry Pilot
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: FAA 14 CFR 21.197 Special Flight Permits, FAA AC 21-4 Special Flight Permits for Aircraft, FAA Order 8130.2 Airworthiness Certification, FAA FSDO Special Airworthiness Certificate Authority, ICAO Annex 8 Airworthiness Requirements for Ferry Flights

SFP Authorization

Special flight permit documentation.

  • Special Flight Permit obtained from FAA FSDO?
  • All SFP conditions and limitations reviewed and understood?
  • Ferry route approved in SFP and filed?
  • Ferry flight crew listed on SFP (if required)?
  • SFP and all required documents on board aircraft for ferry?

Aircraft Condition Assessment

Aircraft airworthiness for ferry.

  • All known defects preventing airworthiness certificate documented?
  • Aircraft confirmed flyable with existing defects by qualified mechanic?
  • Flight controls functional and within safe limits for ferry?
  • Engines operable and fuel supply adequate for route?
  • No structural damage compromising flight safety?

Ferry Flight Planning

Ferry route and fuel planning.

  • Weather briefing obtained and acceptable for ferry?
  • Fuel sufficient for route per SFP conditions?
  • Alternate airports identified along ferry route?
  • Receiving maintenance facility notified of ETA?
  • ATC notified of any unusual aircraft condition affecting flight?

Ferry Pilot Qualifications

Ferry pilot requirements.

  • Ferry pilot holds appropriate certificate and ratings for aircraft?
  • Ferry pilot current on aircraft type?
  • Ferry pilot briefed on aircraft defects and limitations for ferry?
  • Emergency procedures for known defects briefed?
  • Ferry pilot medical current?

Post-Ferry Documentation

After ferry flight records.

  • Arrival at maintenance/destination facility confirmed?
  • SFP validity period expired or surrendered to FSDO?
  • Aircraft released to maintenance for required work?
  • Any new discrepancies observed during ferry documented?
  • Ferry flight logged in aircraft and pilot logbooks?

Records

Ferry flight documentation.

  • Copy of SFP retained in aircraft records?
  • Maintenance logbook entry documenting aircraft condition pre-ferry?
  • Ferry flight entered in pilot logbook?
  • Insurance company notified of ferry flight (if required)?
  • Ferry Flight Notes

Related Aviation Checklists

Related Aircraft Maintenance Checklists

Why Use This Aircraft Ferry Flight and Special Flight Permit Checklist?

This aircraft ferry flight and special flight permit checklist helps aviation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for maintenance director / ferry pilot professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.

Ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR 21.197 Special Flight Permits, FAA AC 21-4 Special Flight Permits for Aircraft, FAA Order 8130.2 Airworthiness Certification, FAA FSDO Special Airworthiness Certificate Authority, ICAO Annex 8 Airworthiness Requirements for Ferry Flights. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Aircraft Ferry Flight and Special Flight Permit Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: SFP Authorization, Aircraft Condition Assessment, Ferry Flight Planning, Ferry Pilot Qualifications, Post-Ferry Documentation, Records. It is designed for aviation operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Who should use this Aircraft Ferry Flight and Special Flight Permit Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Maintenance Director / Ferry Pilot professionals in the aviation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

Browse More Checklists