RVSM Compliance and Monitoring

What is RVSM?

Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) allows aircraft to fly with a vertical separation of 1,000 feet between FL290 and FL410, instead of the previous 2,000-foot separation. This effectively doubles the available flight levels in high-altitude airspace, improving efficiency and reducing fuel burn.

RVSM was implemented in the North Atlantic in 1997 and expanded to all US domestic airspace in January 2005.

RVSM Approval Requirements

To operate in RVSM airspace, operators must obtain approval from the FAA. Requirements include:

Aircraft Requirements

• Two independent altitude measurement systems — typically two air data computers with static sources
• Altitude alerting system — alerts the crew when deviating from assigned altitude
• Automatic altitude hold system — autopilot capable of maintaining assigned flight level
• Altimetry system error (ASE) within specified tolerances

Operator Requirements

• RVSM operations manual or appropriate sections in existing manuals
• Pilot training program covering RVSM procedures
• Maintenance procedures for altimetry system accuracy
• Monitoring compliance through approved height monitoring programs

Height Monitoring

The FAA requires operators to participate in height monitoring programs to ensure altimetry accuracy. The two primary monitoring services are:

AGHME (Automated Ground-based Height Monitoring Equipment) — Located at specific airports, these systems measure aircraft altitude as they fly overhead

GPS-based monitoring — Uses onboard GPS to compare actual altitude with pressure altitude

Operators must ensure a minimum percentage of their fleet is monitored within specified timeframes.

Non-Compliance Consequences

Operating in RVSM airspace without approval can result in:

• FAA enforcement action — certificate action or civil penalties
• Insurance implications — potential coverage disputes
• International restrictions — RVSM approval is recognized by ICAO contracting states

Maintaining Compliance

Best practices for RVSM compliance include:

• Regular altimetry system checks during maintenance events
• Pre-flight altimeter cross-checks between captain and first officer systems
• Participation in height monitoring programs within required timeframes
• Pilot awareness of RVSM procedures during recurrent training
• Documentation of all RVSM-related maintenance and monitoring

How FlyCertify Helps

FlyCertify's credential and compliance tracking can integrate with your RVSM monitoring schedule, ensuring aircraft qualifications and pilot training currency are always documented and audit-ready.

Learn more about compliance tracking →