What is RVSM airspace?
- Between FL 290 and FL410 inclusive
- Aircraft are separated by 1000 ft
What equipment is required for RVSM operation?
(7 items)
- PFD x 2
- ADR x 2
- DMC x 2
- Transponder x 1
- Autopilot function x 1
- FCU channel x 1
- FWC Channel x 1
What are the crew requirements for operation in RVSM airspace?
- Complete initial training (1 hour)
- Complete recurrent training every year
What are the three (3) categories of requirements to perform RVSM operations?
(JCAB Question)
- Equipment
- Operational
- Crew
Operational Requirements - Flight Planning
What are the operational procedures that must be completed at the flight planning stage?
- Check aircraft is approved for RVSM, W on flight plan
- Check weather forecasts (not greater than MOD turbulence)
- Check equipment needed for RVSM (No MEL/CDL affecting RVSM).
Operational Requirements - at the aircraft
- Aircraft logbook - no defects
- External Inspection - Static Ports area clean - Pitot condition check.
- Check Altimeters within tolerances
What are the altimeter tolerances for operations in RVSM airspace?
With accurate QNH set, both altimeters:
- +/- 75 ft of field elevation
- +/- 20 ft of each other
What is the tolerance for the primary altimeters at transition - “Set Standard”
+/- 75 ft
What is the altitude capture mode on the A320?
ALT* (in a box)
What is the tolerance for overshoot or undershoot of assigned level?
+/- 150 ft
What is the tolerance between primary altimeters during level cruise in RVSM airspace?
+/- 200 ft (CAL)
However, A320 FCOM limitation is +/- 130 ft at FL300
How often should the altimeters be checked during cruise flight in RVSM airspace?
Every hour
Can you fly in RVSM airspace using VS 0 set on the FCU?
No
VS does not have any altitude capture capability
What altitude modes should be used for flight in RVSM airspace?
ALT CRZ or ALT
Which transponder should be selected in RVSM airspace?
The same transponder corresponding to the primary altimeter and Autopilot in use>
AP1 = Xponder 1
AP2 = Xponder 2
In case the FO altimeter is outside 200 feet of the Capt altimeter, can the ISIS be used to determine the faulty altimeter?
No
ISIS is not accurate enough to meet RVSM requirements
What should you do if there is a large discrepancy between the primary altimeters?
- Determine the faulty altimeter / ADR
(do this by selecting ADR 2 to to ADR 3 then compare the altitude reading with ADR 1. If still out, try ADR 1 to ADR 3 then compare). - Select faulty altimeter / ADR to ADR 3.
- Regain correct altitude (OPEN DES - ALT*)
- Confirm with ATC that the altitude is correct.
- Apply tolerance for ADR 3 to ADR 1 or 2
(i.e. 195 ft at FL 300)
In case of altitude discrepancies, what information should be recorded in the aircraft Flight Logbook?
- All primary and standby altimeter readings
- FCU Altitude selector setting
- sub-scale setting
- Autopilot used to control and any differences if other AP was used.
- Transponder selected
In case of loss of altimeter system redundancy that cannot be resolved, what should you do?
Land at nearest suitable airport.
(JCAB requirement)
When should you report turbulence to ATC?
Greater than moderate
What are the ATC phraseology used in RVSM operations?
- Unable RVSM due turbulence
- Unable RVSM due equipment
What events require reports?
- Significant performance degradation - OSCAR
- Deviate more than 300 ft from assigned altitude in RVSM airspace - OSCAR with special form “Large Height Deviation”attached.
