Regulation Text
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, no person may operate a civil aircraft in airspace designated as Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace unless:
(1) The operator and the operator's aircraft comply with the minimum standards of appendix G of this part; and
(2) The operator is authorized by the Administrator or the country of registry to conduct such operations.
(b) The Administrator may authorize a deviation from the requirements of this section.
[Amdt. 91-276, 68 FR 70133, Dec. 17, 2003]
Research Notes
Section 91.180 — RVSM operations — establishes the rules for Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum airspace. Within RVSM airspace (FL290–FL410 in U.S. domestic airspace), aircraft are separated by 1,000 feet vertically instead of 2,000 feet, doubling the available cruise levels.
RVSM authorization required: An aircraft and operator must be specifically authorized to operate in RVSM airspace. The authorization requires: (1) approved RVSM-capable aircraft (with required altimetry and altitude-hold equipment per Appendix G to Part 91); (2) approved monitoring; (3) operator training and procedures.
FL290-FL410 RVSM band: Includes the typical jet cruise environment. Operations above FL410 revert to 2,000-foot separation (no RVSM above).
Equipment requirements (Appendix G): Two independent altitude-measuring systems, an automatic altitude-keeping device, an altitude-alerting system, and a Mode S/Mode C transponder with altitude reporting. Specific accuracy and integrity requirements apply.
Practical scope: Most Part 91 GA aircraft cannot operate in RVSM — they lack the equipment certification. Business jets, large turboprops, and airliners typically have RVSM authorization. Pilots flying outside RVSM cannot file altitudes in the RVSM range.
Reference: FAA-H-8083-16 Chapter 6; FAA Order 8900.1 Volume 4, Chapter 9 for inspector RVSM guidance.
Amendment History
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