Fast & Reliable Approvals | American Flight Support
All non-Ecuadorian-registered aircraft must obtain official authorization before overflying or landing in Ecuador. American Flight Support provides professional support for both Ecuador Overflight (OVF) permits and Ecuador Landing permits, ensuring compliance with local aviation regulations and smooth flight operations.
Who Issues Ecuador Overflight & Landing Permits?
Ecuador overflight and landing permits are issued by the Dirección General de Aviación Civil (DGAC), the national aviation authority responsible for approving foreign aircraft operations within Ecuadorian airspace and airports.
American Flight Support is a registered entity with Ecuadorian Civil Aviation, allowing us to efficiently manage and expedite permit requests pasted.
Who Needs Ecuador OVF & Landing Permits?
Ecuador overflight and/or landing permits are required for:
- Private / General Aviation
- Business and corporate jets
- Commercial charter operations
- Cargo flights
- State or military aircraft (subject to diplomatic clearance)
How to Obtain Ecuador Overflight & Landing Permits
Most operators obtain Ecuador OVF and landing permits through a professional flight support provider such as American Flight Support to avoid delays and regulatory complications.
The standard process includes:
- Submission of aircraft, crew, and itinerary details to DGAC
- Review of documentation and insurance compliance
- Permit issuance for approved routes, airports, and dates
- Coordination with airport authorities and ATC as required
⚠️ The Ecuadorian Civil Aviation Authority does not operate on weekends or after business hours, making advance coordination essential pasted.
Required Documentation
To apply for Ecuador overflight and/or landing permits, the following documents are typically required:
- Certificate of Registration
- Certificate of Airworthiness
- Insurance Certificate
- Noise Certificate (showing MTOW)
- Aircraft technical specifications
- Complete flight schedule
Additional documentation may be required for commercial or state flights.
Processing Time
- Standard processing: Up to 48 hours
- Recommended lead time: Minimum 72 hours before departure
- Weekend submissions: Not accepted
Permit Validity & Operating Conditions
- Landing permits are generally issued for stays of up to 30 days in Ecuador
- Permits are route-, airport-, and date-specific
- Schedule or routing changes may require a permit revision
- Charter operations are not permitted in the Galapagos Islands past
Special Operations: Galapagos Islands (SEGS / SEST)
Entry Requirements
Airports in the Galapagos Islands are restricted to domestic operations only. All international flights must first land at:
- SEGU – Guayaquil, or
- SEQM – Quito
Customs, immigration, and mandatory aircraft disinfection must be completed before continuing to the Galapagos. The process typically requires approximately 2 hours, including a 1-hour disinfection procedure during which the aircraft is sealed and unoccupied pasted.
Parking & Aircraft Restrictions
- Overnight parking at SEST (San Cristóbal) and SEGS (Baltra) is limited to aircraft with a maximum wingspan of 35 meters
- Drop-off only operations do not require parking coordination
- If parking is unavailable, aircraft relocation between Galapagos airports may be arranged
Operating Hours
General aviation operating hours at SEGS and SEST:
1415–2200 UTC / 0815–1600 Local
Arrivals close to airport closing time may result in operational constraints or additional fees for after-hours staff pasted.
Passenger & Crew Requirements
All passengers and crew traveling to the Galapagos must:
- Obtain a Transit Control Card
- Pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee (cash upon arrival)
American Flight Support can manage these formalities on behalf of passengers and crew to avoid delays at commercial terminals pasted.
Fuel & Ground Support
- Fuel: Not available at SEGS; limited availability at SEST
- Ground Support Equipment: No GPU or ASU available; manual lavatory and water service only at SEST
Recommended International Departure
For outbound international flights, SEMT is recommended due to minimal traffic and rapid processing, enabling turnarounds as short as 30 minutes.
Why Use American Flight Support?
- Registered with the Ecuadorian Civil Aviation
- Experienced permit specialists for Latin America
- Accurate documentation review to prevent delays
- Full coordination for mainland Ecuador and Galapagos operations
- 24/7 global flight support
Request Ecuador Overflight & Landing Permits
To request Ecuador OVF and/or landing permits, contact American Flight Support with your aircraft details, routing, and schedule. Our team will manage the entire approval process from submission through confirmation.
T: 888-45-4017
Email: ops@americanflightsupport.com