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]
The short answer
(14 CFR § 91.180) No person may operate a civil aircraft in airspace designated as Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace unless the operator and aircraft meet the minimum standards of appendix G of part 91 and the operator is authorized by the Administrator or the country of registry. The Administrator may authorize a deviation.
Research Notes
Common Questions
What two things must be satisfied to fly in RVSM airspace?
Both the operator/aircraft must comply with appendix G and the operator must be authorized.
“(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.” — 14 CFR § 91.180(a)
Can the FAA waive the RVSM requirements?
Yes — the Administrator may authorize a deviation from this section.
“(b) The Administrator may authorize a deviation from the requirements of this section.” — 14 CFR § 91.180(b)
Where are the RVSM minimum standards found?
In appendix G of part 91, which § 91.180(a)(1) incorporates by reference.
“The operator and the operator's aircraft comply with the minimum standards of appendix G of this part” — 14 CFR § 91.180(a)(1)
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