Permit requests can slow flight operations down fast. Each flight needs approval, each approval needs review, and each delay adds pressure to the ops team. That’s why many operators rely on blanket aviation permits to keep flights moving without constant paperwork.
Blanket permits help airlines, cargo operators, and corporate fleets run repeat flights with less admin work. Instead of filing over and over, you work under one approved framework. Clear rules. Clear limits. Fewer surprises.
This guide explains how blanket landing permits, blanket overflight permits, and blanket overflight and landing permits actually work and when they make sense for your operation.
What Is a Blanket Permit?
A blanket permit is a single government approval that allows multiple flights over a defined period. The permit is valid only for the routes, aircraft, and operator listed in the approval, but within those limits, flights can operate without repeat filings.
This setup works best for operators with regular schedules. Authorities can review your plan once, confirm compliance, and then allow continued operations under the same terms.
One Permit Approval That Covers Many Flights Over a Set Time
With blanket landing permits or blanket overflight permits, the approval usually covers several months or a full season. As long as your flights match the approved schedule, no new permit request is needed for each movement.
That saves time for both the operator and the authority.
A “Season Pass” Instead of Buying a Ticket for Every Trip
Filing single aviation permits is like buying one ticket at a time. It works, but it costs effort every time. A blanket permit works like a season pass. You meet the rules once, then operate multiple flights without repeating the process.
How Blanket Permits Work in the Real World?
Blanket permits are practical tools, not shortcuts. Authorities expect consistency and accuracy from operators using them.
The Standard Process vs. The Blanket Process
Under the standard process, each flight requires a separate request, review, and approval. This can lead to delays if documents change or deadlines are missed.
With the blanket process, the authority approves a flight plan in advance. Flights that follow this plan can operate smoothly, which is why blanket overflight and landing permits are common for repeat international routes.
What Flights Are Covered?
Blanket permits are not universal. Coverage depends on the country and the permit terms.
Blanket permits usually cover scheduled passenger services, fixed cargo routes, and repeating corporate flights that use the same aircraft and operator details. Flights must follow the approved plan closely.
Usually, blanket permits do not cover unscheduled charters, emergency flights, or new aircraft types, which are often excluded. Any flight outside the approved scope may require a separate permit.
The Big Benefits of Using a Blanket Permit
Operators rely on blanket permits because they remove daily friction from flight operations and replace it with control. Instead of reacting to permit deadlines, teams can plan ahead and operate with confidence.
1- Save Time and Reduce Admin Headaches
Filing permits for every flight eats up hours each week. Emails go back and forth. Small changes trigger rechecks. Deadlines creep closer.
With a blanket permit, most of that work disappears. One approval supports many flights, so ops teams stop chasing paperwork and start focusing on routing, crew coordination, and on-time departures. Less admin. Fewer mistakes.
2- Predictable Costs and Smoother Operations
Single permits create variable costs. Some weeks are quiet. Others spike without warning.
Blanket permits make costs easier to plan. Fees are known upfront, schedules stay consistent, and planning across crew, fuel, and ground handling becomes simpler. When permits stop changing, operations stay steady.
3- Reduced Risk of Delays and Permit Errors
Single-flight permits increase the chance of small mistakes. A wrong date, a late submission, or a missed update can ground a flight.
Blanket permits lower that risk. Once approved, the permit details stay consistent across operations. Fewer submissions mean fewer chances for errors, last-minute refusals, or clearance issues. That reliability protects schedules and avoids avoidable delays.
Pinpoint Problems & Your Action Plan
Even with blanket permits, issues can come up. Here’s how to respond.
- Pinpoint: You’re Filing Individual Permits Weekly for the Same Route. This often means a blanket permit is being missed.
Action Needed: Review your flight frequency. If you operate in the same country twice a month or more, ask your flight support provider whether blanket permits are available.
- Pinpoint: Your Blanket Permit Application Was Denied. Denials usually link to documentation or eligibility gaps.
Action Needed: Check schedule consistency, insurance coverage, and AOC validity. Most authorities require clear proof that operations are regular and compliant.
- Pinpoint: You Have a Blanket Permit but Need an Unscheduled Charter. This is a common mistake.
Action Needed: Do not rely on the blanket permit. Unscheduled charters often need a one-time permit. Always confirm coverage before operating.
Who Qualifies for a Blanket Permit?
Operators with stable patterns qualify most easily. Airlines with published schedules, cargo carriers on fixed routes, and corporate flight departments with predictable travel plans are strong candidates for blanket aviation permits.
The Application Requirements
Authorities review applications carefully. A proposed flight schedule, proof of insurance, operator certification, and sometimes a local sponsor or handling agent. Accuracy matters, since any mismatch can delay approval.
How AN Aviation Services Secures Your Blanket Permit?
Experience matters when permits are involved. AN Aviation Services reviews your operation, confirms eligibility, and prepares applications that meet local authority standards. This reduces delays and rejections.
After approval, AN Aviation Services monitors validity, manages updates, and ensures your blanket landing permits and blanket overflight permits stay compliant as operations continue.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a blanket permit approved?
Approval time depends on the country, but most blanket permits take a few weeks. Some states are faster if your documents are clean and your schedule is clear. Missing papers can slow things down.
What is the main difference between a blanket and a normal permit?
A normal permit covers one flight only. A blanket permit covers many repeat flights over a set period, as long as you follow the approved plan.
Which countries offer blanket overflight permits?
Many countries offer blanket overflight permits, especially for scheduled airlines and cargo operators. Availability depends on local rules, so confirmation with a flight support provider is always needed.
Are blanket permits more expensive than single permits?
The upfront cost is usually higher, but over time they are often cheaper per flight. You pay once instead of paying again and again for each permit.
How do I report my flights under a blanket permit?
Most authorities require post-flight reports or advance notifications. These are usually sent through your handling agent according to local rules.
What happens if I don’t use all the flights in my blanket permit?
Nothing negative usually happens. Unused flights do not roll over, but they also do not cause penalties as long as you stayed within the permit rules.