Operations within airspace designed as Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum Airspace

This regulation governs operations in RVSM (Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum) airspace, where aircraft are separated by only 1,000 feet instead of the traditional 2,000 feet between FL290 and FL410.

To operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft in RVSM airspace, you must meet two requirements: First, both you (the operator) and your aircraft must comply with the technical standards in Appendix G of Part 91, which covers equipment performance, maintenance programs, and operational procedures. Second, you must receive specific authorization from the FAA to conduct RVSM operations.

In practice, this means you cannot simply fly into RVSM airspace even if your aircraft has the equipment—you need prior FAA approval. The Administrator may grant deviations from these requirements under certain circumstances outlined in Appendix G. Most modern transport-category and high-performance aircraft are RVSM-certified, but operators must maintain that certification through ongoing compliance.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*