JET RVSM SERVICES LLC
RVSM Manual Preparation
fast, simple, stress free
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I renew my Letter of Authorization (LOA)?
If your LOA was issued after February 6, 2006, you do not need to renew your LOA. This LOA is valid until the aircraft changes ownership or if you change the way you operate the aircraft. LOAs issued prior to February 6, 2006 are determined to be invalid after 24 months and you may be required to submit a new approval application to the FAA. Please contact your issuing office to determine whether you need to submit a new application. We recommend you start this process at least 60 days prior to the expiration date.
How long does it take to obtain RVSM operational approval?
The time frame varies depending on the workload and personnel capabilities at your local FSDO. We are committed to expediting this process for you on our end. We can write a custom RVSM manual within three business days when we receive your complete aircraft and operator information. We then ship the manual directly to you via FEDEX. You will need to read and sign the manual and submit it to your FSDO. From there, the FAA has up to 60 days to process the application. This is why we recommend starting the approval process as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary costs associated with flying below FL 290.
Can I transfer an existing LOA to my new aircraft?
No. When you purchase a pre-owned aircraft, the LOA issued for the aircraft from the seller becomes invalid. LOAs are non-transferable. Once an aircraft changes ownership, a new LOA must be obtained from the FAA by the buyer. Therefore, a new application package must be submitted to the FAA for approval.
How do I complete an aircraft height monitoring flight?
When you contract Jet RVSM Services to write your RVSM manual, we will assist you in completing your monitoring flight at no additional charge. You have two options to accomplish the monitoring flight:
- Complete a "GMU" (GPS-based Monitoring Unit) flight where a 3rd party is contracted to meet you at either a maintenance facility or your base of operations. The person performing the monitoring flight carries onboard a small, portable GPS unit with two antennas which will suction cup to two interior windows. The GMU flight requires you to fly above FL290 and hold LEVEL for 30 minutes while the GPS unit records the data. Cessna Aircraft Company or CSSI, Inc can be contracted to perform GMU flights. A base fee of approximately $2,000 is required, plus any travel-related expenses must be reimbursed.
- Over fly one of the AGHME (Aircraft Geometric Height Measurement Element) constellations, which is a no cost service. The AGHME system does not require any special monitoring devices be installed on an aircraft in order for it to be monitored. If your aircraft is equipped with a Mode S transponder, the AGHME can simply be flown over. AGHME constellations are currently located in Wichita, KS, Atlantic City, NJ, Cleveland, OH, Ottawa, Ontario and Lethbridge, Alberta. Please refer to the following website for these locations and procedures: http://www.tc.faa.gov/act-500/niaab/rvsm/AGHME_main.asp
Jet RVSM Services will assist you in completing your GMU or AGHME flight by submitting necessary forms to the FAA and coordinating dates, times and personnel for the flight as necessary. (Please note that additional costs are associated with GMU flights. There is no additional charge to coordinate AGHME flyovers.)
Should monitoring flights be accomplished every two years?
This depends on where you plan to operate your aircraft. To comply with European regulations, you must accomplish a monitoring flight every two years. The United States does not require monitoring flights be performed every two years.
There are, however, instances when a verification flight will need to be conducted. For example, if the aircraft has sustained damage to the RVSM critical region (the aircraft skin surrounding the static ports) or if an air data computer or other RVSM critical component has been replaced with a new part number.
Please contact us if you have any additional questions regarding RVSM operational approval.
