At what flight level does RVSM airspace begin?

RVSM, or Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum, refers to the reduced vertical separation between aircraft flying at higher altitudes, which allows for more efficient use of the airspace. RVSM airspace typically begins at Flight Level 290, which corresponds to an altitude of approximately 29,000 feet. This is a critical threshold in aviation where the vertical separation is reduced from the standard 2,000 feet to 1,000 feet between aircraft operating in this airspace.

Understanding this altitude is important for pilots and air traffic controllers as it dictates the operational protocols that must be followed in the RVSM airspace. At Flight Level 250 or below, traditional vertical separation standards are applied, and aircraft operating above FL290 are required to be RVSM compliant to ensure safe and efficient navigation in the increasingly congested airways.