(a) Where the terms, conditions, or limitations of this part, particularly § 294.81, require prior approval of individual flights or charter programs, the registrant shall apply for such approval by filing three copies of OST Form 4540 with the Office of International Aviation, Foreign Air Carrier Licensing Division. OST Form 4540 may be obtained from the Foreign Air Carrier Licensing Division.

(b) Action on the application for authorization filed under paragraph (a) of this section will normally be taken within 30 days after the application is filed. The Department will consider requests for faster action that include a full explanation of the need for expedited action.

The Department upon application or on its own initiative may waive any of the provisions of this part if it finds such action to be in the public interest.