Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) is defined as the reduction of vertical space between aircraft from 2,000 to 1,000 feet at flight levels from 29,000 feet up to 41,000 feet. RVSM was implemented as a means to increase airspace capacity and provide access to more fuel-efficient flight levels.

Is a transponder required in RVSM airspace?

A functioning Mode-C SSR Transponder is also required for flight through radar controlled RVSM transition airspace. Flights should climb/descend continuously through the RVSM levels without stopping at any intermediate level and should “Report leaving” current level and “Report reaching” cleared level.

What is RVSM contingency?

• An in-flight contingency affecting flight in the RVSM Airspace pertains to unforeseen circumstances which directly impact on the ability of one or more aircraft to operate in accordance with the vertical navigation performance requirements of the RVSM Airspace.

Is RVSM a FL280?

RVSM capabilities means flight operations above FL280. Previously, RVSM could only be added to these airplanes post-production. RVSM certification is required for all aircraft operating worldwide above FL280.

What are the exceptions that allow a non RVSM aircraft to fly in RVSM airspace?

Non-RVSM exception aircraft may access RVSM airspace in one of the following ways:

  • LOA: Complies with a Letter of Agreement (LOA) for operations within a single or adjacent ARTCCs.
  • File-and-Fly: Files a flight plan and makes the initial request to access RVSM airspace by requesting an ATC clearance.

Can you fly in RVSM without autopilot?

Simply “equipped”, and also that this is to approve an aircraft for RVSM. From what I can find, there is no operational requirement for the autopilot to actually be working or engaged.

What are the TCAs equipage requirements for RVSM?

TCAS equipage requirements are contained in 14 CFR Sections 121.356, 125.224, 129.18 and 135.189. Part 91, Appendix G, does not contain TCAS equipage requirements specific to RVSM, however, Appendix G does require that aircraft equipped with TCAS II and flown in RVSM airspace be modified to incorporate TCAS II Version 7.0 or a later version.

What if my aircraft is not RVSM-compliant?

If either the operator is not authorized for RVSM operations or the aircraft is not RVSM-compliant, the pilot will neither request nor accept a clearance into RVSM airspace unless:

Where are rvsms allowed to operate?

The policies, guidance and direction in this section apply to RVSM operations in the airspace over the lower 48 states, Alaska, Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico High Offshore Airspace and airspace in the San Juan FIR where VHF or UHF voice direct controller-pilot communication (DCPC) is normally available.

Does ATC use the RVSM approval database?

ATC does not use RVSM approvals databases to determine whether or not a clearance can be issued into RVSM airspace. RVSM program managers do regularly review the operators and aircraft that operate in RVSM airspace to identify and investigate those aircraft and operators flying in RVSM airspace, but not listed on the RVSM approvals databases.