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Export control compliance

U.S. and related export rules that can apply to aviation parts and technical data

Last Updated: February 10, 2026

Export compliance is mandatory

U.S. export control and sanctions laws can impose civil and criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, and loss of export privileges. Liability can extend to individuals and organizations.

If you export, re-export, or transfer aviation parts or related technical data from the United States—or deal with restricted parties or destinations—you are responsible for compliance with all applicable regulations and licenses.

1. Overview

Many aircraft parts, components, and related technical data are subject to U.S. export controls. Controlled items generally may not be exported, re-exported, or transferred (including to foreign persons in the U.S.) without a license or other authorization when required.

Two primary U.S. frameworks that often affect aviation goods are:

2. Key U.S. export frameworks

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 or exporter of aviation parts, you are typically responsible for:

  • • Determining whether items and technical data are controlled and how they are classified
  • • Obtaining required licenses, agreements, or exceptions before export or re-export
  • • Screening parties, end uses, and destinations against denied-party and sanctions lists
  • • Keeping records required for your exports or re-exports
  • • Honoring re-export and transfer restrictions that apply after you receive goods or data