FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Navigation and ATCMedium
An aircraft is operating in Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace at FL350. What is the standard vertical separation required between this aircraft and another aircraft operating at FL360 within RVSM airspace?
- A2,000 feet
- B1,500 feet
- C500 feet
- D1,000 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 1,000 feet
RVSM airspace, typically between FL290 and FL410, reduces standard vertical separation from 2,000 feet to 1,000 feet, allowing more aircraft to operate efficiently at optimal altitudes. FL350 and FL360 are 1,000 feet apart, which meets the RVSM standard.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 2,000 feet is the standard separation used above FL410 or outside RVSM airspace.
- B. 1,500 feet is not a recognized separation standard.
- C. 500 feet is not used as a standard IFR vertical separation minimum.
RVSM Airspace
Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum airspace, generally FL290–FL410, allows 1,000-foot vertical separation instead of the standard 2,000 feet, increasing airspace capacity.
- RVSM range: FL290 to FL410
- Separation reduced from 2,000 ft to 1,000 ft
- Requires RVSM-certified aircraft and crew authorization
- Above FL410, standard 2,000 ft separation resumes
Memory trick: RVSM: Reduces Vertical Separation to a Mile (1,000 ft) high up