U .S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular Subject: Authorization of Aircraft and Operators for Flight in Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) Airspace Date: 1 /29/19 AC No: 91-85B Initiated by: AFS-400 Change:
This advisory circular (AC) provides airworthiness and operational authorization guidance material for operators, pilots, certificate holders, and/or program managers conducting Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 91, §§ 91.180 and 91.706 Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) operations. RVSM airspace is any airspace or route between flight level (FL) 290 and FL 410 inclusive where aircraft are separated vertically by 1,000 feet.
This AC has been updated to include guidance on eligibility and compliance for §§ 91.180 and 91.706 R VSM operations when operators seek RVSM authorization under the provisions of the new Part 91 Appendix G, Section 9, Aircraft Equipped with Autom atic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast Out.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) intends to transition current authorizations, issued under part 91 appendix G, section 3, to monitor operations under the provisions of part 91 appendix G, section 9. This action reduces the operator and FAA administrative burdens associated with maintaining the part 91 appendix G, section 3 authorizations.
Robert C . Carty Deputy Executive Director, Flight Standards Service
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CONTENTS Paragraph Page
Chapter 1. General1-1
1.1 Purpose of This Advisory Circular (AC)1-1
1.2 Audience1-1
1.3 Where You Can Find This AC1-1
1.4 What This AC Cancels1-1
1.5 AC Format1-1
1.6 Airworthiness1-1
1.7 Related Regulations1-2
1.8 Related Reading Material1-2
1.9 AC Feedback Form1-2
Chapter 2. A ircraft Eligibility2-1
2.1 Introduction2-1
2.2 Aircraft Eligibility2-1
2.3 Configuration Control2-1
2.4 Maintenance2-1
2.5 RVSM Performance2-1
Chapter 3. K nowledge and Training3-1
3.1 Pilot Knowledge3-1
3.2 Pilot Knowledge Subject Areas3-1
3.3 Pilot Currency3-2
Chapter 4. A uthorizations for Operators of RVSM Aircraft Equipped With a Qualified
ADS-B OUT System4-1
4.1 Introduction4-1
4.2 Flight Planning4-1
4.3 Altitude-Keeping Performance Monitoring for RVSM Aircraft Equipped With
ADS-B OUT4-1
4.4 RVSM Altitude-Keeping Performance Website4-3
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Chapter 5. Operators Applying for RVSM OpSpecs, MSpecs, or LOAs5-1
5.1 Introduction5-1
5.2 RVSM Authorization Elements Background5-1
5.3 Authorization Matrix5-1
5.4 Applying for an RVSM OpSpec, MSpec, or LOA5-3
5.5 Providing Evidence for RVSM Authorization5-3
5.6 RVSM Applicant5-4
5.7 Responsible Person5-5
5.8 Considerations When Applying for an RVSM OpSpec, MSpec, or LOA5-6
5.9 Applicable Forms for the RVSM Authorization Documents5-9
5.10 Conditions Requiring the Removal of an Authorization5-10
Appendix A. RVSM Airworthiness CertificationA-1
Appendix B. Training Programs and Operating Practices and Pr oceduresB-1
Appendix C. Operations Outside of U.S.-C ontrolled AirspaceC-1
Appendix D. Severe Turbulence and Mountain Wave ActivityD-1
Appendix E. RVSM Altitude-K eeping Performance Monitoring When Operating With
an RVSM OpSpec, MSpec, or LOAE-1
Appendix F. Decision Matrix When Applying for an RVSM OpSpec, MSpec, or LOAF-1
iv List of Figures
Figure A-1. Example of Air Data System/Autopilot ConfigurationA-13
Figure A-2. S ingle Air-Data Computer Configuration for Autopilot InputA-14
Figure A-3. A ltimetry System Error and Its ComponentsA-18
Figure A-4. S tatic Source Error/Static Source Error Correction Relationships for Altimetry System Error Where Static Line, Pressure Measurement, and
Conversion Errors Are ZeroA-22
Figure A-5. P rocess for Showing Initial and Continued Compliance of Airframe Static
Pressure SystemA-27
Figure A-6. C ompliance Demonstration Ground-To-Flight Test Correlation
Process ExampleA-27
Figure A-7. P rocess for Showing Initial and Continued Compliance of Airframe Static
Pressure Systems for In-Service and New Model AircraftA-28
Figure B-1. F light Level Orientation SchemeB-1
L ist of Tables
Table A-1. Full RVSM Envelope BoundariesA-5
Table A-2. S tatic Source ErrorA-20
Table A-3. R esidual Static Source Error (Aircraft with Avionic Static Source
Error Correction)A-21
Table B-1. R VSM PhraseologyB-6
Table B-2. C ontingency Actions: Weather Encounters and Aircraft System Failures
That Occur After Entry into RVSM AirspaceB-7
Table F-1. R VSM Decision MatrixF-1
1-1 CHAPTER 1. GENERAL
1.1 Purpose of This Advisory Circular (AC). This AC provides airworthiness and operational authorization guidance material for operators, pilots, certificate holders, and/or program managers conducting Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 91, §§ 91.180 and 91.706 Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) operations. RVSM airspace is any airspace or route between flight level (FL) 290 and FL 410 inclusive where aircraft are separated vertically by 1,000 feet. The term “must” is used in this AC to indicate a mandatory requirement driven by regulation or required for a system to operate properly. The term “should” is used to indicate a recommendation.
The term “operator” refers to the certificate holder, program manager, and operator/company for aircraft used in RVSM airspace for 14 CFR parts 91, 91 subpart K (part 91K), 121, 125, and 135 operations.
1.2 Audience. This AC applies to operators, pilots, certificate holders, and/or program managers under parts 91, 91K, 121, 125, and 135 conducting RVSM operations in the United States or in oceanic and remote airspace. This AC also applies to U.S.-registered operators where foreign authority has adopted International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) RVSM operations.
1.3 Where You Can Find This AC. You can find this AC on the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) website at http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_cir culars.
1.4 What This AC Cancels. AC 91-85A, Authorization of Aircraft and Operators for Flight in Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) Airspace, dated July 21, 2016, is canceled.
1.5 AC Format.
• Chapter 2, Aircraft Eligibility, and Chapter 3, Knowledge and Training, apply to all operators, pilots, certificate holders, and/or program managers.
• Chapter 4, Authorizations for Operators of RVSM Aircraft Equipped with a Qualified ADS-B OUT System, applies to operators and pilots intending to operate in RVSM airspace under the provisions of part 91 appendix G, section 9.
• Chapter 5, Operators Applying for RVSM OpSpecs, MSpecs, or LOAs, applies to operators and pilots of aircraft not equipped with a qualified Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) OUT system or when operating in a country requiring specific approval. Operators may also obtain this approval if the aircraft is not routinely flown in airspace where the FAA has sufficient ADS-B data to determine RVSM performance.
1.6 Airworthiness. For RVSM aircraft airworthiness requirements, see Appendix A, RVSM Airworthiness Certification.
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1.7 Related Regulations. Title 14 CFR:
• Part 91, §§ 91.180 and 91.706, subpart K, and appendix G.
• Part 121.
• Part 125.
• Part 135.
1.8 Related Reading Material.
1.8.1 FAA Documents. The following documents are available at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/:
• Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM).
• Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP).
1.8.2 ICAO Documents:
• ICAO Annex 2, Rules of the Air.
• ICAO Annex 6, Operation of Aircraft, Part I—International Commercial Air Transport—Aeroplanes and Part II—International General Aviation—Aeroplanes.
• ICAO Annex 11, Air Traffic Services.
• ICAO Doc 4444, Procedures for Air Navigation Services, Air Traffic Management.
• ICAO Doc 7030, Regional Supplementary Procedures.
• ICAO Doc 9574, Manual on a 300 m (1,000 ft) Vertical Separation Minimum Between FL 290 and FL 410 Inclusive.
1.9 AC Feedback Form. For your convenience, the AC Feedback Form is the last page of this AC. Note any deficiencies found, clarifications needed, or suggested improvements regarding the contents of this AC on the Feedback Form.
2-1 CHAPTER 2. AIRCRAFT ELIGIBILITY
2.1 Introduction. This chapter provides guidance on how operators can determine if their aircraft is compliant and eligible for operations in RVSM airspace.
2.2 Aircraft Eligibility. An aircraft is an “RVSM-Compliant Aircraft” when:
1. The aircraft design ensures the aircraft will meet RVSM performance requirements; and
2. The aircraft has been properly maintained on an ongoing basis to conduct such operations.
2.2.1 Aircraft may be produced RVSM-compliant or brought into compliance through the application of appropriate Service Bulletins (SB), Service Letters (SL), Engineering Change Orders (EO), or Supplemental Type Certificates (STC). For airworthiness guidance, see Appendix A, RVSM Airworthiness Certification.
2.2.2 To determine eligibility for RVSM operations, the limitations section of the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) or AFM Supplement (AFMS) should indicate the aircraft has been determined to be capable of meeting the RVSM performance requirements of 14 CFR part 91 appendix G.
Note: For operators and pilots authorized under part 91 appendix G, section 9, the aircraft may have qualified as Group or Non-Group aircraft described in Appendix A.
2.3 Configuration Control. Operators must maintain their aircraft altimetry and altitude-keeping configuration which has been shown to provide the required RVSM performance.
2.4 Maintenance. The operator is responsible for maintenance of the systems affecting RVSM performance on the aircraft. The operator must ensure that it complies with the appropriate instructions for continued airworthiness (ICA).
2.4.1 S ystem Alteration or Design Modifications (Including Software Updates) . Operators must evaluate alterations to the aircraft and identify any changes that impact altitude-keeping ability. The operator should establish that the alteration did not affect the RVSM system, or if it was affected, affirm the compliance to meet associated performance standards. When modifying an aircraft based on an approved design change, the owner of the approved design change should identify any effect on RVSM performance. Operators must determine aircraft RVSM eligibility after each alteration or modification.
2.5 R VSM Performance. Altitude-keeping performance of airplanes is a key element in ensuring safe operations in RVSM airspace. RVSM is a “performance-based” operation requiring monitoring on an ongoing basis.
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2.5.1 Altitude-Keeping Performance Monitoring. RVSM aircraft must participate in altitude-keeping performance monitoring programs to ensure safe and efficient operations in RVSM airspace.
2.5.1.1 Operators and pilots conducting RVSM operations under the provisions of part 91 appendix G, section 9 must ensure their aircraft meet the RVSM altitude-keeping performance monitoring requirements as described in Chapter 4, paragraph 4.3. Under these provisions, aircraft with qualified ADS-B OUT systems will be monitored during normal operations whenever operating at RVSM altitudes where sufficient ADS-B data is available to the FAA to determine RVSM performance. All aircraft in an operator’s fleet must have been monitored within the previous 24 months and found to be in compliance with the performance requirement specified in part 91 appendix G, section 9(b).
2.5.1.2 Operators conducting RVSM operations under the provision of part 91 appendix G, section 3 must meet the RVSM Minimum Monitoring Requirements (MMR) and have their aircraft monitored as specified in Appendix E, RVSM Altitude-Keeping Performance Monitoring When Operating With an RVSM OpSpec, MSpec, or LOA.
3-1 CHAPTER 3. KNOWLEDGE AND TRAINING
3.1 Pilot Knowledge. All pilots conducting operations in RVSM airspace must be proficient with the procedures and operations associated with RVSM.
3.1.1 Title 14 CFR Parts 91K, 121, 125, and 135 Operator Training. Parts 91K, 121, 125, and 135 operators should have a training program addressing the operational practices, procedures, and training items related to RVSM (e.g., initial, upgrade, or recurrent training for pilots, operational control personnel, and maintenance personnel).
Note: A separate training program is not required if RVSM training is integrated into the operator’s existing training program.
3.2 Pilot Knowledge Subject Areas. The following subjects should be addressed during the initial introduction of a pilot to RVSM operations (see also Appendix B, Training Programs and Operating Practices and Procedures; Appendix C, Operations Outside of U.S.-Controlled Airspace; and Appendix D, Severe Turbulence and Mountain Wave Activity):
1. D escription of RVSM airspace, including Flight Level Allocation Schemes (FLAS).
2. Flight planning for RVSM aircraft.
3. Preflight procedures.
4. Procedures before RVSM airspace entry.
5. In-flight procedures.
6. RVSM pilot air traffic control (ATC) phraseology.
7. Contingency procedures after entering RVSM airspace.
8. Postflight procedures.
9. Non-RVSM aircraft.
10. Altitude-keeping performance monitoring.
11. Minimum equipment list (MEL).
12. Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) considerations for RVSM (if TCAS-equipped).
13. RVSM oceanic operations (if applicable).
14. International operations (if applicable).
15. Severe turbulence and Mountain Wave Activity (MWA).
3-2 Note: For subsequent ground training, only the new, revised, or emphasized items need be addressed.
3.3 Pilot Currency. Pilot currency programs/training should also include RVSM elements listed in paragraph 3.2.
4-1 CHAPTER 4. AUTHORIZATIONS FOR OPERATORS OF RVSM AIRCRAFT
EQUIPPED WITH A QUALIFIED ADS-B OUT SYSTEM
4.1 Introduction. This chapter discusses RVSM operations for operators and pilots seeking to conduct flight in RVSM airspace under the provisions of 14 CFR part 91 appendix G, section 9.
4.1.1 Operators and pilots seeking to operate in RVSM airspace under the provisions of part 91 appendix G, section 9 are not required to apply for authorizations. The operator or pilot needs to ensure all applicable requirements in part 91 appendix G to operate in RVSM airspace are met. The operator or pilot should:
1. Determine the aircraft is RVSM-compliant (see Chapter 2, Aircraft Eligibility);
2. Ensure pilots are knowledgeable (see Chapter 3, Knowledge and Training);
3. Ensure the aircraft meets RVSM performance and the aircraft has been height-monitored in accordance with paragraph 4.3 (see paragraph 4.3.5 when an operator is conducting the initial flight in RVSM airspace); and
4. Properly file a flight plan and understand the policies and procedures for the RVSM airspace in which the aircraft will operate.
4.2 Flight Planning. ATC uses flight planning codes to determine when to assign 1,000 ft separation in RVSM-designated airspace. See Appendix B, Training Programs and Operating Practices and Procedures, for proper flight planning procedures.
4.2.1 No n -RVSM Aircraft. If the aircraft is not eligible for RVSM operations or the flightcrew does not have knowledge of RVSM requirements, policies, and procedures sufficient for the conduct of operations in RVSM airspace, the aircraft is considered a non-RVSM aircraft.
4.3 Altitude-Keeping Performance Monitoring for RVSM Aircraft Equipped With ADS-B OUT. The goal of altitude-keeping performance monitoring is to ensure safe and efficient operations and determine aircraft compliance on an ongoing basis.
4.3.1 Altimetry System Error (ASE). Proper vertical separation in RVSM airspace relies on strict altitude-keeping performance of the aircraft. ASE is the difference between the pressure altitude displayed to the flightcrew and free stream pressure altitude. It is a key component of Total Vertical Error (TVE). This difference is not seen on the displayed altitude in the flight deck and it is not in the Altitude Reporting Mode of Secondary Radar (Mode C) or Mode Select Secondary Radar with Data Link (Mode S) reply from the aircraft transponder. Therefore, it is invisible to the pilot, to routine ATC, and to the TCAS.
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4.3.2 Aircraft ICAs are designed to keep the ASE to within the limits of the error budget throughout the flight envelope. Regardless, even with attention to continuing airworthiness, there are factors that can affect the ASE significantly and can go undetected without altitude-keeping performance monitoring.
4.3.3 Aircraft equipped with qualified ADS-B OUT systems will be height-monitored during normal operations at RVSM altitudes when operating in airspace where sufficient ADS-B data is available to the FAA to determine RVSM performance.
4.3.4 For RVSM altitude-keeping performance monitoring purposes, a qualified ADS-B OUT system is one that meets the performance requirements in part 91, § 91.227.
4.3.4.1 ADS-B OUT provides the necessary aircraft information for the FAA to perform altitude-keeping performance monitoring on a continual basis during normal RVSM aircraft operations whenever the aircraft is operating at RVSM altitudes in airspace where sufficient ADS-B data is available to the FAA to determine RVSM performance. A map of that airspace can be found at https://www.faa.gov/nextgen/programs/adsb/coverageMap/.
Note: The FAA may also expand the airspace in which we collect altitude-keeping performance data via ADS-B through collaboration with other air navigation service providers (ANSP).
4.3.4.2 The ADS-B OUT equipment requirement is necessary for aircraft altitude-keeping performance monitoring, but not for aircraft altitude-keeping capability. Accordingly, an aircraft meeting RVSM altitude-keeping performance specified in part 91 appendix G, section 9, and having a current successful monitoring in accordance with paragraph 4.3.5, is authorized to operate in RVSM airspace when ADS-B OUT is temporarily inoperable.
Note: This does not relieve the operator of any other requirements regarding the use of ADS-B for the specific airspace where operations are intended.
4.3.5 The altitude-keeping performance must be monitored as follows:
4.3.5.1 The initial RVSM operation of an aircraft must be in airspace where sufficient ADS-B data will be collected for the FAA to evaluate RVSM performance.
Initial RVSM operation occurs at the first RVSM flight of a new aircraft, the first RVSM flight after alterations affecting RVSM performance have been performed, or the first RVSM flight of an aircraft returned to RVSM operational status after having been removed for any reason.
1. Operators must ensure compliant performance prior to operations in RVSM airspace outside U.S.-controlled airspace (see paragraph 4.4). An operator may obtain authorization without first flying in airspace in which the FAA monitors ADS-B operations