FAR 91.713 — Cuban-Registered Aircraft Operations
FAR 91.713 restricts civil aircraft of Cuban registry to controlled airspace and ATC clearances, including specific routes and landing airports.
FAR 91.713 sets special rules for operating any civil aircraft of Cuban registry in U.S. airspace. The rule is narrow but strict: such aircraft may not be operated except under specific conditions designed to keep ATC in full control of where they fly and land.
Specifically, a Cuban-registered civil aircraft may only operate:
- In controlled airspace (not in uncontrolled airspace), and
- In accordance with an ATC clearance or instructions, which may include:
- Use of specific airways or routes, and
- Landings at specific airports designated by ATC.
Why it matters operationally: this regulation reflects long-standing national security and foreign policy considerations. As a pilot, you are unlikely to fly a Cuban-registered aircraft yourself, but you should understand that certain foreign-registered aircraft are subject to operating restrictions beyond the standard Part 91 rules. On a checkride, this is a knowledge item that demonstrates familiarity with the special flight rules found in Subpart H of Part 91.