RVSM and Hand Flying

[mzaharis]

OK, Dumb Newbie Question #2

Given the new RVSM requirements, are pilots allowed to hand-fly between FL290 and FL410 (not including climb and descent)?

 

[sf3boy]

Not sure, but I would think that we could. The airlines would be very upset if they were not able to defer (MEL)autopilots when they are broken. Fixing things cost mooney and airlines hate to spend money on anything that can be put off until later.

 

[Lead Sled]

The answer is simple - No, there is no hand flying in RVSM airspace. If the autopilot fail in RVSM airspace you must advise ATC and get a new clearance to a non-RVSM altitude.

 

[de727ups]

Off the top of my head and without doing any research...I'm pretty sure it's a no. You need the autopilot, and altitude hold, on.

 

[mzaharis]

Yeah, that was my suspicion, but I never read anything that specifically said that it is prohibited (but I don't read the FARs very often, given that I'm not currently flying).

 

[2000flyer]

OK, Dumb Newbie Question #2

Given the new RVSM requirements, are pilots allowed to hand-fly between FL290 and FL410 (not including climb and descent)?

Yes, you need an operating autopilot. Check out the FAA's RVSM website for more info.

2000Flyer

 

[pilotyip]

No hand flying above FL280

The regs allow the AP to be disconnected momentarily to trim that is it.

 

[Wiggums]

Hand flying in RVSM is not allowed.

In our MEL if the altitude hold is inop we have to advise ATC, leave RVSM altitudes, and placard the aircraft, "FLIGHT IN RVSM AIRSPACE PROHIBITED".

 

[sf3boy]

The commuter bean counters are going to hate this. No more deferred AP's for the 1000 mile legs of the little regional jets.

 

[LarryinTN]

The commuter bean counters are going to hate this. No more deferred AP's for the 1000 mile legs of the little regional jets.

Sure they can. They just have to do it at FL280 and below.