Global Express Wins RVSM

Bombardier's Global Express ultra long-range business jet last month received Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) approval from Transport Canada, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Europe's Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA).

"We are very pleased with the resounding endorsements from all three aviation authorities," said David Orcutt, vice-president and general manager, customer support, Bombardier Business Aircraft. "This certification marks the culmination of an extensive flight test program, during which the tolerances of various altimetry system components were confirmed and the system as a whole was verified as compliant with RVSM requirements."

RVSM allows a reduction in aircraft vertical altitude separation by air traffic control from 2,000 feet to 1,000 feet at higher altitudes. It was introduced over the Atlantic in 1997, in the Pacific region early last year, and is due to be implemented to ease congestion in Europe in the first quarter of next year.