RVSM
RVSM reduces the vertical separation minima for opposite direction flights to 1,000 ft between FL290 and FL410.
MEL for RVSM includes, among other things:
- Two independent altimeters (that indicate within 75ft when set on the ground)
- 1 autopilot
- 1 APA
In flight operation
Prior to entering RVSM, all required equipment must operate normally. Else, flight is capped at FL280.
Once reaching RVSM airspace, altitudes should not be overshot by 150 ft. Autopilots must always be engaged within RVSM airspace, and the two primary altimeters should be within 200 ft.
Contingency procedures
Encounters with severe turbulence in RVSM airspace that cause deviations of more than 200 ft, ATC should be notified.
10 - 30 miles behind or after passing aircraft 1,000 ft above. In this scenario, a lateral offset is effective, although a flight level change may also be appropriate.
Should equipment failures occur, ATC must be notified along with some indication that the equipment malfunction. Controllers will then provide 2,000 ft separation and vectors to exit RVSM airspace.
Note that a single altimeter failure does not require an immediate exit from RVSM; rather, indications must be cross-checked with a standby altimeter.
Emphasis items
Phraseology
Examples:
- Affirm RVSM
- Negative RVSM
- Unable RVSM due equipment (use specific equipment)
- Ready to resume RVSM