Operational Approvals

RVSM allows suitably equipped and approved aircraft to operate within designated upper airspace, reducing vertical separation between aircraft from 2,000 ft to 1,000 ft. Achieving RVSM compliance involves more than just having the right equipment installed; it also requires that the aircraft's configuration, maintenance program, operating procedures, and crew standards align with applicable regulatory requirements, including considerations for Extended Diversion Time Operations and Performance-Based Navigation. SkySure can assist with the necessary documentation, procedures, and application process to demonstrate full RVSM compliance.

Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) includes navigation specifications such as RNAV (Area Navigation) and RNP (Required Navigation Performance), facilitating Extended Diversion Time Operations. These advanced capabilities enable aircraft to navigate accurately along prescribed flight paths, reducing the dependence on traditional ground-based navigation aids. Depending on the intended operation, various specifications may be applicable, including RNAV 1, RNAV 2, RNP 1, RNP 4, and RNP APCH, all of which are essential for ensuring RVSM compliance. SkySure can assess the aircraft's capabilities and intended operations, determine the relevant requirements, and assist with the necessary manuals, procedures, and regulatory submissions.

Extended Diversion Time Operations (EDTO) refer to scenarios where an aircraft may operate beyond a specified diversion time from an adequate aerodrome. These operations necessitate careful consideration of various factors including aircraft capability, reliability, maintenance, fuel planning, crew procedures, diversion strategies, and compliance with Performance-Based Navigation and RVSM regulations. Where applicable to your aircraft and intended routes, SkySure can assist with the operational documentation, procedures, and regulatory applications required to support EDTO operations.

An Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) allows flight crews to utilize approved electronic devices and applications for functions that have traditionally been carried out using paper documentation and other flight-deck resources. EFB systems support essential functions, including charts, operational documentation, performance calculations, and flight planning information, all of which are crucial for Extended Diversion Time Operations and ensuring RVSM compliance.

Introducing an EFB into an operation necessitates careful consideration of the hardware and software utilized, operational procedures, and training, alongside data management, security, backup arrangements, and risk assessment.

SkySure can develop the vital EFB policy, procedures, risk assessments, and supporting documentation necessary to enhance your operation's Performance-Based Navigation capabilities.

Low Visibility Operations (LVO) enable suitably equipped aircraft and qualified crews to conduct Extended Diversion Time Operations under reduced visibility conditions, encompassing certain low-visibility approaches, landings, and departures. The applicable requirements vary based on the aircraft capability, aerodrome facilities, crew training, and the regulatory framework, including Performance-Based Navigation and RVSM compliance, under which the aircraft operates. 

SkySure can assist in developing the necessary operational procedures, manuals, risk assessments, and regulatory submissions, collaborating with your Registry or Aviation Authority throughout the approval process.

Aircraft operating within North Atlantic High Level Airspace (NAT HLA) are required to meet specific navigation, communication, surveillance, and operational standards, including Extended Diversion Time Operations (EDTO) and Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) requirements. For those regularly crossing the North Atlantic, ensuring compliance with RVSM and verifying that the aircraft's equipment, procedures, crew requirements, and documentation meet the necessary standards is crucial for effective operational planning. SkySure can assess your intended operation and aircraft capability, helping you develop the required procedures and supporting documentation for successful NAT HLA operations.

Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) provides a digital means of communication between pilots and Air Traffic Control, supplementing traditional voice communications and enhancing operations, especially during Extended Diversion Time Operations. CPDLC is increasingly important within certain areas of controlled and oceanic airspace and plays a vital role in the performance-based navigation framework now utilized in modern aviation. Additionally, it is part of the broader data-link environment that supports RVSM compliance for modern aircraft. SkySure can assist with the required operational procedures, manual content, and regulatory documentation associated with the use of data-link communications.

ADS-C enables an aircraft to automatically transmit agreed flight information to Air Traffic Services through a data-link connection, which is particularly vital for Extended Diversion Time Operations in remote and oceanic airspace where conventional radar surveillance may not be available. When ADS-C is part of the aircraft's intended operation, SkySure can assist in ensuring that the appropriate procedures, documentation, and regulatory requirements, including RVSM compliance and Performance-Based Navigation standards, are integrated into your operational framework.

Certain airports require aircraft to conduct approaches at a steeper descent angle than that normally used for standard operations, particularly during Extended Diversion Time Operations. Steep approach operations may necessitate specific aircraft capabilities, including Performance-Based Navigation systems, manufacturer approval, crew training, operating procedures, and regulatory acceptance or approval, such as RVSM compliance. SkySure can help establish the requirements applicable to your aircraft and intended destination, while also developing the necessary manual procedures and supporting regulatory documentation.

Operating in challenging weather conditions often necessitates additional aircraft capabilities, specific procedures, enhanced crew training, and careful regulatory considerations. Depending on the aircraft and the intended operation, these requirements may include Extended Diversion Time Operations, low-visibility take-offs, approach and landing operations, and the implementation of Performance-Based Navigation systems to ensure RVSM compliance. 

SkySure can assist in translating these requirements into practical procedures and documentation tailored to your operation.

Even when an operator does not routinely carry dangerous goods as cargo, there may still be regulatory responsibilities concerning dangerous goods policies, crew training, passenger baggage, and items transported aboard the aircraft, especially during Extended Diversion Time Operations. Compliance with RVSM regulations and implementing Performance-Based Navigation systems can further complicate these responsibilities. 

SkySure can assist in developing appropriate dangerous goods policies and procedures, ensuring they are seamlessly incorporated into your operational manuals.

A Safety Management System (SMS) provides a structured approach to managing safety within aviation operations, particularly in the context of Extended Diversion Time Operations. It integrates the necessary policies, responsibilities, processes, and reporting systems used to identify hazards, assess risk, and continually enhance safety performance. 

An effective SMS should be more than just a manual created to meet regulatory requirements; it must accurately reflect the size, complexity, and real-world activities of the operation. Most importantly, it should be practical for the individuals who interact with it, ensuring compliance with standards such as Performance-Based Navigation and RVSM compliance.

SkySure can develop and support your SMS, encompassing safety policies, hazard identification, risk assessment, occurrence reporting, safety performance monitoring, emergency response interfaces, and management of change. 

We also offer ongoing SMS support to ensure the system evolves alongside your operations and remains aligned with the requirements of your Registry or Aviation Authority. 

A practical safety system designed around how you truly operate.