Where does Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace begin?

Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace begins at Flight Level 290 (FL290). This airspace is designed to allow aircraft to operate with a smaller vertical separation of 1,000 feet between flight levels, as opposed to the traditional 2,000 feet that is standard outside of RVSM airspace.

In the context of aviation, RVSM is a critical component for increasing the availability of airspace and improving the efficiency of flight operations. By allowing for closer spacing of aircraft at higher altitudes, RVSM helps manage air traffic more effectively, especially in busy air corridors. Furthermore, the implementation of RVSM is supported by the need for advanced altimetry systems in aircraft, ensuring safe operations with the reduced vertical separation.

The operational level for RVSM starts at FL290 because this altitude is where the majority of commercial jet operations take place, and it allows for better utilization of the airspace above FL290. This altitude is carefully chosen to balance the safety and efficiency of high-altitude flights while still ensuring adequate separation from traffic below.