Obtain Overflight and Landing Permit in Romania

Like any other country, operating flights to Romania requires adherence to local aviation regulations and acquiring appropriate permits. Here’s a detailed overview of the requirements and processes involved in obtaining flight permits for Romania.

1. Types of Flight Permits in Romania

There are two primary types of flight permits required for operating flights to and from Romania:

1. Overflight Permit:
   • Required for aircraft flying through Romanian airspace without landing.
   • Must comply with Eurocontrol regulations since Romania is part of the European Union.
2. Landing Permit:
   • Required for all flights intending to land at any airport in Romania.
   • Applies to both commercial and non-commercial operations.

2. Regulatory Authority

The Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority (RCAA) is the primary regulatory body overseeing flight permits, ensuring compliance with international and national aviation standards.

3. Documentation Required for Flight Permits

To obtain flight permits in Romania, operators must provide the following documents:

For Overflight Permits:

• Aircraft registration certificate.
• Airworthiness certificate.
• Aircraft insurance certificate (showing third-party liability).
• Air operator’s certificate (AOC).
• Flight details (route, altitude, estimated entry and exit points in Romanian airspace).
• Pilot licenses and medical certificates.

For Landing Permits:

• All documents required for overflight permits.
• Ground handling arrangements at the destination airport in Romania.
• Slot confirmation from the respective airport, if applicable.
• Details of the purpose of the flight (e.g., passenger transport, cargo, medical evacuation, etc.).
• Passenger manifest or cargo details (if applicable).

4. Key Considerations for Specific Flights

Scheduled Commercial Flights:

• Must operate under bilateral air service agreements (BASA) between Romania and the respective country.
• Compliance with European Union Air Transport Regulations is mandatory.

Charter Flights:

• Require additional approvals for each operation.
• Proof of economic needs or special purpose (e.g., sports teams, tourists, etc.) might be necessary.

Private and Business Aviation:

• Permits are simpler to obtain but still require coordination with the RCAA.
• Flight plans must be submitted through Eurocontrol.

Emergency Flights (e.g., Medical Evacuation):

• Emergency flights can be fast-tracked but still require coordination with local authorities and the airport.

5. Lead Times for Permit Approvals

• Overflight Permit: Typically processed within 24 hours.
• Landing Permit: Can take 2-3 business days, depending on the type of flight and completeness of documentation.
• Emergency Flights: Permits can be expedited and approved within a few hours.

6. Airports in Romania

Romania has several international airports. The busiest include:

• Henri Coandă International Airport (Bucharest – OTP): Main hub for international flights.
• Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport (CLJ): Key airport for central Romania.
• Traian Vuia International Airport (Timișoara – TSR): A vital hub for western Romania.
• Iași International Airport (IAS): Important for northeastern Romania.

7. Airspace Management

• Managed by ROMATSA (Romanian Air Traffic Services Administration).
• Part of the Eurocontrol framework for efficient airspace management.
• Operators must ensure compliance with ICAO standards for flight planning and navigation.

8. Challenges and Tips

• EU Compliance: Ensure all operations adhere to European Union aviation standards, including noise restrictions and emissions compliance.
• Slot Availability: Romanian airports can have limited slot availability during peak seasons, so advance planning is essential.
• Language Barriers: While English is commonly used in aviation, having local expertise can simplify communication with authorities and service providers.

9. Steps to Obtain Permits

1. Plan the Flight:
   • Determine the route, destination, and purpose of the flight.
2. Prepare Documentation:
   • Gather all required documents for submission.
3. Submit Application:
   • Submit the flight permit request to the Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority and Eurocontrol for route approvals.
4. Coordinate with Ground Handlers:
   • Ensure ground handling arrangements at the destination airport.
5. Follow-Up:
   • Track the permit application process and address any queries promptly.

10. Resources 

• Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority (RCAA):
  • Website: http://www.caa.ro
  • Phone: +40 21 208 1500
  • Email: [email protected]
• ROMATSA (Air Traffic Services):
  • Website: http://www.romatsa.ro
  • Phone: +40 21 208 3600