Definition
14 CFR 91.703 is the section of the Federal Aviation Regulations that governs the operation of civil aircraft of U.S. registry outside of the United States. It requires such aircraft to comply with the rules of the foreign country in which they are operated, with the Annexes to the Convention on International Civil Aviation (ICAO Annexes) when over the high seas, and with applicable U.S. regulations to the extent they are not inconsistent with foreign rules.
Plain English
This rule tells U.S.-registered aircraft what set of rules to follow when they fly outside the United States. In another country's airspace, follow that country's rules. Over the open ocean, follow the international rules set by ICAO. U.S. rules still apply where they don't conflict with the foreign or international rules.
Context Anchor
Seen in FAA handbooks, regulations, and training material when a topic depends on a specific operating rule rather than only on aircraft performance or technique.
Derivation
The number comes from the structure of the Federal Aviation Regulations. “91” means Part 91, which contains general operating and flight rules. “.703” identifies the specific section inside Part 91.
Why Pilots Care
Compliance ensures proper separation from other traffic and legal operation in this busy international corridor.
Intuition Check
Do not read 91.703 as a measurement, speed, or procedure step. Here it is a regulation number that points you to a specific rule.
Example Sentence 1
Before the transatlantic leg, the crew reviewed 91.703 to confirm which ICAO procedures applied once they left U.S.-controlled airspace.
Example Sentence 2
Flight planning included airspeed adjustments to satisfy the performance requirements of 91.703.