FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Overfly & Landing Permits by
Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA)
1. What is an overfly permit?
An overfly permit is official authorization from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority allowing an aircraft to fly through Pakistani airspace without landing.
2. Who needs an overfly permit?
Any foreign-registered aircraft intending to enter or pass through Pakistan’s airspace without landing must obtain an overfly permit.
3. What is a landing permit?
A landing permit is authorization issued by the PCAA allowing a foreign-registered aircraft to land at a designated airport in Pakistan.
4. Who needs a landing permit?
Any foreign aircraft intending to land in Pakistan for commercial, private, or technical purposes must obtain a landing permit prior to arrival.
5. How do I apply for an overfly or landing permit?
Applications can be submitted through the PCAA Air Transport Directorate by the operator, airline, or an authorized handling agent.
6. What information is required to apply for an overfly permit?
Applicants must provide the aircraft’s registration, type, operator details, purpose of flight, route, schedule, and other relevant documentation.
7. What information is required to apply for a landing permit?
Details such as aircraft registration, type, operator, airport of arrival, departure point, purpose of landing, crew/passenger manifest, and schedule are required.
8. How much notice is required for obtaining an overfly permit?
In most cases, a minimum of 48 working hours is required before the intended operation. Emergency or humanitarian flights may be processed faster.
9. How much notice is required for a landing permit?
Typically, at least 72 working hours’ notice is required, but urgent cases may be considered subject to PCAA’s discretion.
10. Are there different rules for diplomatic flights?
Yes, diplomatic and state flights require clearance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in addition to PCAA authorization.
11. How long is an overfly permit valid?
An overfly permit is valid only for the specified date and route mentioned in the approval.
12. How long is a landing permit valid?
Landing permits are valid for the approved date(s) and airport(s) only. Any change requires prior re-approval.
13. Can I change my flight schedule after receiving a permit?
Yes, but any changes must be communicated to PCAA in advance, and a revised permit may be required.
14. Are there fees for overfly and landing permits?
Yes, applicable charges are determined as per PCAA’s Aeronautical Charges Schedule.
15. What happens if I fly through Pakistani airspace without a permit?
Unauthorized flights are a violation of Pakistan’s Air Navigation Regulations and may lead to fines, detainment, or other enforcement actions.
16. Can permits be issued on short notice for emergencies?
Yes, PCAA prioritizes emergency, humanitarian, and medical evacuation flights and processes them as quickly as possible.
17. Are military aircraft subject to the same process?
No, military and defense-related flights require special clearances through diplomatic and defense channels.
18. Do I need both an overfly and landing permit for the same trip?
If your flight passes through Pakistani airspace and also lands in Pakistan, you will require both an overfly and a landing permit.
19. Can my agent or ground handler apply on my behalf?
Yes, authorized agents or handlers can submit applications to PCAA on behalf of the operator.
20. Where can I find the official application forms and guidelines?
Official forms and detailed guidelines are available on the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority’s official website under the Air Transport Directorate section.