ferryflights

Ferry flights are non-revenue flights conducted to relocate an aircraft from one location to another without passengers or scheduled service. They are typically flown by a small flight crew tasked specifically with moving the aircraft, rather than operating it for normal commercial service. The term covers movements of new aircraft from manufacturers to buyers, used aircraft between owners or bases, and the repositioning of an aircraft for maintenance, storage, or registration changes.

Planning and operations involve verifying airworthiness, fuel planning, weather, flight time, and potential stops for refueling or crew changes. For long distances, additional pilots or crew may be carried, and the flight may require extended-range operations, ferry tanks, or other special equipment. In some cases a single-pilot operation is permitted if the aircraft supports it; more commonly two pilots fly the schedule with reserves and contingency planning.

Regulatory and safety considerations often require an authorization such as a ferry permit or a special flight permit. International moves involve customs and export/import documentation, overflight rights, and flight plans filed under IFR or VFR. Some jurisdictions require temporary airworthiness validation or other authorities while the aircraft is not used for revenue service.

Operational considerations include the choice of routes, which may be direct long-haul legs or series of stops depending on range, weather, and client requirements. Some moves involve external fuel tanks or auxiliary power units. Risks include weather, technical issues, and coordination with air traffic control and applicable civil aviation authorities.