Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM)
The goal of RVSM is to reduce the vertical separation above flight level (FL) 290 from the current 2000-ft minimum to 1000-ft minimum. This will allow aircraft to safely fly more optimum profiles, gain fuel savings and increase airspace capacity. The process of safely changing this separation standard requires a study to assess the actual performance of airspace users under the current separation (2000-ft) and potential performance under the new standard (1000-ft). In 1988, the ICAO Review of General Concept of Separation Panel (RGCSP) completed this study and concluded that safe implementation of the 1000-ft separation standard was technically feasible.
United States Domestic RVSM
- Implemented: FL 290-410 January 20, 2005
- North American Approvals Registry and Monitoring Organization (NAARMO)
CAR/SAM RVSM
- Implemented FL 290-410 January 20, 2005
Europe RVSM
- January 24, 2002
- FL290-410
WATRS RVSM
- Phase I: Transition September 30, 2000
- Phase II: FL310-390 November 1, 2001
- Phase III: FL290-410 January 24, 2002
Asia Pacific RVSM
- Pacific:
FL 290-390 February 24, 2000
FL 290-410 October 5, 2000
*FL 410 is available for non-RVSM approved flights - South China Sea:
February 21, 2002
- Asia-Europe South of the Himalayas:
November 27, 2003
- Asia Pacific Approvals Registry
and Monitoring Organization
NAT RVSM
- Phase I: FL330-370 March 27, 1997
- Phase II: FL310-390 October 8, 1998
- Phase III: FL290-410 January 24, 2002
RVSM Documentation
RVSM Aircraft and Operator Approval Documentation — documents and guidance related to RVSM aircraft and operator approval
United States Domestic RVSM
The U.S. Domestic RVSM Program is a key element of the FAA's National Airspace System (NAS) Operational Evolution Plan (OEP).
Additional Information
For additional information on RVSM contact: DRVSM@cssiinc.com
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