Aircraft assigned an EATPL number 1 or 2 will not be delayed, diverted, or rerouted by Combatant Commanders. However, commanders may recommend that this traffic be rerouted to avoid critical or critically threatened areas.

Aircraft assigned an EATPL number other than 1 or 2 may be delayed, diverted, or rerouted by Combatant Commanders to prevent degradation of the air defense system.

Aircraft being recovered will be expedited to home or an alternate base. Search and Rescue aircraft may be expedited on their missions. Such aircraft may be diverted to avoid critical areas or takeoff may be delayed to prevent saturation of airspace.

Aircraft will file IFR or VFR flight plans, assigned a discrete transponder code, and must be in direct radio communication with ATC. The appropriate EATPL number will be entered in the remarks section of the flight plan. The EATPL number will be passed with flight plan data from one ATC facility to the next, and to the appropriate air defense control facilities.