When are Air Force fighter-type aircraft permitted to land at CONUS civil airports?

Air Force fighter-type aircraft are permitted to land at CONUS (Continental United States) civil airports primarily in emergencies, with the necessary approvals from relevant authorities. This regulation ensures safety and coordination between military operations and civil air traffic. In emergency situations, the pilots may need to land at alternative locations when a military base is not readily accessible, or if immediate landing is necessary due to a critical situation, such as mechanical failure or medical emergencies.

The requirement for necessary approvals is also crucial because it allows for proper communication with civil aviation authorities and air traffic control, ensuring that all operations can be safely managed within the existing airspace structure. This maintains the integrity of civil aviation while providing the fighter aircraft with the necessary flexibility to address urgent situations.