By Iker Lyric
RVSM Training is the best solution to reduce the probability of a pilot experiencing a headache during the flight. The reduction in pressure on the brain directly impacts the severity of headaches, known as migraine headaches. In addition, headaches are known to occur when blood vessels are subject to increased strain. This strain is caused by either an increase in blood velocity within the skull or a decrease in the diameter of the dishes that supply blood to the head. Either condition can result in increased pressure or decreased diameter of the vessels supplying blood to the head.
RVSM training involves reduced vertical separation and emergency procedures specific to the IFR or In-Flight Control situations. The purpose of this training is to reduce the risk of pilots experiencing migraine headaches during the flight. In addition, it educates pilots about their physiology to better anticipate their reactions to emergencies. Many pilot trainees have found that reduced vertical separation and emergency procedures reduce the risk of an occurrence and save their lives when necessary.
As stated above, the purpose of RVSM training is to reduce the risk of pilots experiencing a migraine headache. But it should also increase the pilots’ awareness of their physiology. There are many ways to do this. One way is to go through the training and test of emergency procedures with a simulator. This provides the pilot with an opportunity to experience how they will react to various stimuli while in a real-time situation. Simulators also teach the pilot how to respond to multiple physical and mental reactions during an actual flight situation.
It is also crucial for pilots to learn the basics of IFR or In-Flight Control situations. This includes understanding the differences between airspace and controlled airspace, the different types of radio transmissions, and how to use databases and navigation systems to their advantage. Pilots must also understand the importance of weather information. A significant amount of bad weather situations can be avoided by understanding the meteorological conditions that would affect a flight and the airports that provide adequate IFR aircraft services. The last component of RVSM training is learning the differences between scheduled and non-scheduled flights.
Scheduled and non-scheduled flights are considered “non-essential” and only require the essential in-flight services necessary for a safe take-off and landing. Thus, these flights do not fulfill the increased operational requirements of RVSM training. These non-essential flights can be made through ATC or by radio alert.
Part 95 of the Federal Aviation Administration’s regulations outlines the requirements for all pilots. The most significant of these requirements is the RVSM rule. Part 95 also lays out the training requirements for all pilots, including RVSM. Part 95 requires all pilots and any passengers operating an RVSM aircraft to have at least a pilot license and adequate pilot knowledge. Additionally, passengers who will be operating non-critical aircraft have to undergo a minimum of one hour of instruction in pilot knowledge and airplane operations, in addition to ten hours of classroom training.
To meet the Part 95 training requirements for pilots, an individual must first complete part 100. This training program is broken up into two parts. The first part is known as the recurrent training requirement. Part 100 also lays out the additional training and experience needed for new pilots who will be required to take a test following their initial training. Part 95 also contains information on all aviation devices and equipment, maintenance records, and updates on current RVSM rule changes.
All pilots are expected to follow the RVSM rules, but failing to do so can result in fines or even losing their certificate. So, be sure to study all the information contained in the RVSM training manual. Not reading through the complete training manual before you sign up can result in a costly mistake.
