The FAA has posted two new documents discussing Domestic Reduced Vertical Separation Minimums (DRVSM) to its website. “Basic Operator Information on DRVSM Programs”, dated June 1, 2004, provides a basic overview of the DRVSM program, including program objectives, background, regulation and guidance, an overview of the RVSM authorization process and an explanation of basic DRVSM policies. “DRVSM Operational Policy and Procedures: FAA Notice”, dated May 31, 2004, contains DRVSM operational policy and procedures. You can download copies of these documents here.
DRVSM will go into effect on January 20, 2005 at 0901 UTC. All operators intending to fly between flight level (FL) 290-410 (inclusive) in the airspace of the lower 48 States of the United States, Alaska, Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic High Offshore Airspace (including Houston and Miami Oceanic airspace) and the San Juan FIR after that date will need to be in compliance.
