FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Q. HOW DOES THE RVSM CERTIFICATION FOR FAA APPROVAL BEGIN?

The process starts by filling out in detail the RVSM application (included in this website) .This will allow us to asses and assemble a preliminary package. The package will be used to begin the RVSM manual and set up a pre-application meeting with the FAA. Following the pre-application meeting we will continue building the RVSM manual, and gathering more information.

Q. HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?

The process normally is dependent on the customer. When presenting a RVSM manual to the FAA for approval with airplanes already manufactured, certified under RVSM and with all documentation (provided by the manufacturer) completed the process typically takes 3-4 weeks following the pre-application meeting. However aircraft build, not RVSM certified or approved under STC’s in general take longer. The reason for this is we have observed in recent years that many customers failed to provide accurate information on the STC approval and long-ranged navigational authorization.

Q. WHAT IS SPECIAL AIRSPACE AUTHORIZATION?

Special Airspace Authorization is airspace which requires long-ranged navigational system and specific RNP accuracy. RVSM falls into the special airspace certification. Submission of a manual for RVSM certification allows the FAA to utilize this opportunity to provide the customer with a RVSM authorization as well as lateral limits authorization (dependent on your long-range navigational equipment). After completion of the customer ’s authorization, the FAA will issue separate Ops Specs for airspace that the aircraft is authorized to fly.

Q. IS RVSM OPS SPECS TRANSFERABLE DURING THE SALE OF AN AIRCRAFT?

No, Ops Specs are issued by the FAA to an individual operator and aircraft. In the event the operator changes any item listed under Ops Specs issued by the FAA, your RVSM certification will be canceled.

Q. DO OPS SPECS HAVE EXPIRATION DATES?

No, Ops Specs are non-transferable, however they do not expire.

Q. WHAT IS A HEIGHT MONITORING FLIGHT?

Height monitoring flights are performed to evaluate the accuracy of the altimeter system. Altimeter systems have to pass a test for a height monitoring flight. This is dependent on altimetry system and pitot-static systems installed on the aircraft. The maximum error in a height monitoring flight in most cases is plus or minus 200’.

Q. DO NEW AIRPLANES REQUIRE A HEIGHT MONITORING FLIGHT?

Yes. The height monitoring flight is performed during the acceptance flight with the customer. The FAA normally allows you 3 months following FAA RVSM approval to present proof and results of the height monitoring flight.

Q. HOW OFTEN DO MONITORING FLIGHTS NEED TO BE PERFORMED?

For airplanes operating in the U.S. height monitoring flights are only required once to prove the system’s accuracy for the certification process. However, when operating outside the U.S. into European air- space it is required every 2 years.

Q. WHAT IS A AGHME?

AGHME is an Aircraft Geometric Height Measure- ment Element constellation. This is a no cost service. The AGHME system does not require any special monitoring devices to be installed on an aircraft. If your aircraft is equipped with a Mode S transponder, the AGHME can simply be flown over. AGHME constellations are currently located in the U.S. in Wichita KS, Atlantic City NJ, and Cleveland OH. In Canada the locations are Ottawa, Ontario, Lethbridge and Alberta.

Q. WHAT IS AN GMU CHECK?

GPS-based Monitoring Unit where a third party is contracted to meet the customer at either a maintenance facility or the customer ’s base of operations. The individual performing the monitoring flight carries onboard a small portable GPS unit with two antennas which will suction cup to two interior windows. The GMU flight requires the customer to fly above FL290 and hold LEVEL for 30 minutes while the GPS unit records the data. CSSI, Inc. can be contracted to perform GMU flights. Contact Bobby Williams at 866-468-8111 for further information. As well you may contact Air Inc. Direct.

Q. IS A MMEL OR MEL REQUIRED FOR RVSM APPROVAL?

Yes, the FAA requires the operator to submit a form of compliance for critical equipment operation. This can be done by requesting the approval of the operator to use the MMEL or MEL for compliance.