Photo courtesy of Eagle Creek

COMMANDER TIPS RVSM and Autopilots

RVSM, or reduced vertical separation minima, has helped to reduce ATC workload, but also add to it at the same time by permitting more aircraft in a smaller airspace. And of course, if you want to fly above Flight Level 290, it’s required. Lately some owners have been requesting from Twin Commander requirements and restrictions of operating and certifying their aircraft for RVSM.

The FAA has released Advisory Circular 91-85B that covers documentation and approvals, outlining the details of each element of RVSM compliance.

Aircraft may be produced as RVSM-compliant or brought into compliance through the application of appropriate Service Bulletins (SB), Service Letters (SL), Engineering Change Orders (EO), or Supplemental Type Certificates (STC).

RVSM performance requirements include altitude-keeping ability to ensure safe operations in RVSM airspace. RVSM is a “performance-based” operation requiring monitoring on an ongoing basis.

As part of the altitude-keeping performance, the aircraft must participate in altitude-keeping performance monitoring programs to ensure safe and efficient operations in RVSM airspace. This is why the autopilot plays a big part in RVSM.

There are many types and models available for your Twin Commander. Twin Commander Factory Authorized Service Centers can introduce you to many STC-approved systems that are currently available for your aircraft. Most Commander operators are familiar with the mainstream systems from Garmin, BendixKing, and Moog/Genesys S-Tec. Each holds the STC for all Twin Commanders. AC 91-85B goes into detail on how you can make your Twin Commander meet all RVSM requirements.

See one of the Twin Commander Factory Authorized Service Centers for updates and modifications that can bring your Twin Commander into RVSM compliance.

David Allison is an experienced technician and Twin Commander Aircraft’s Technical Service Manager.