As I said earlier, the level you were given was probably not governed by whether you were RVSM approved or not. That is up to the controller. If he/she wanted to put you at 320 westbound and provide 2000 ft separation then that is his choice. We are not legally allowed to exclude traffic from RVSM airspace because it is not equipped until 24/1/02. We can however limit it due to traffic...
To answer your question precisely: It is up to YOU to tell us if you are NOT RVSM equipped and you are requesting a level above 280 for cruise. We will probably have the strips to confirm that, but there is always the possibility that the flight plan info is wrong. There should be no need to confirm you are RVSM approved unless requested.
OK?
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"Take-off is optional, Landing is mandatory"
[This message has been edited by eyeinthesky (edited 27 April 2001).]