Who pays overflight fees?

• A. The governing aviation authority
• B. The operator
• C. The PIC
• D. Only owners of large aircraft

Answer: (B)

Overflight fees are charges for using a country’s en-route airspace and air traffic control services, and they’re paid by the party that operates the flight. The operator—the airline, charter company, or other flight operator—is responsible for payment, not the pilot in command. The governing aviation authority regulates and oversees airspace, but does not pay these charges. Ownership of the aircraft isn’t the deciding factor; the fees are typically based on the aircraft’s weight category and the distance flown, so the operator in charge of the flight foots the bill.