Export Control Compliance
Understanding U.S. export regulations for aviation parts and technical data
Last Updated: February 10, 2026
Export Compliance is Mandatory
Violations of U.S. export control laws carry severe penalties including substantial fines, imprisonment, and loss of export privileges. Both individuals and companies can be held liable.
If you are purchasing aviation parts for export or re-export outside the United States, you MUST comply with all applicable export regulations.
1. Export Control Overview
Many aircraft parts, components, and technical data are subject to U.S. export control regulations. These regulations restrict the export, re-export, and transfer of controlled items to foreign persons or countries without proper authorization.
The two primary export control regimes affecting aviation parts are:
2. U.S. Export Control Regulations
ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations)
Administered by the U.S. Department of State, Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC)
Covers:
- Military aircraft and parts
- Defense articles listed on U.S. Munitions List (USML)
- Technical data related to defense articles
- Defense services and training
EAR (Export Administration Regulations)
Administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
Covers:
- Dual-use items (commercial and military applications)
- Commercial aircraft parts
- Items on Commerce Control List (CCL)
- Technical data not covered by ITAR
3. Your Responsibilities
As a buyer of aviation parts, you are responsible for:
- • Determining if parts are subject to export controls
- • Obtaining necessary export licenses or authorizations
- • Screening end-users and destinations against denied parties lists
- • Maintaining accurate records of exports
- • Ensuring compliance with re-export restrictions