What is the purpose of "special flight permits" in FARs?

The purpose of "special flight permits" is primarily to authorize the operation of aircraft that may not meet the standard airworthiness requirements established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This type of permit is issued in specific circumstances where the aircraft is deemed unairworthy, but it is still safe for flight for a limited purpose. Such situations often include instances where an aircraft needs to fly for repairs, modifications, or delivery to a designated location for further maintenance.

Special flight permits can be critical in allowing flights of non-airworthy aircraft that will not pose a significant risk to safety if operated under controlled conditions, thereby enabling necessary remedial actions or evaluations. This framework provides flexibility within the regulations, ensuring that while safety is prioritized, operational needs can still be met under extraordinary circumstances.