Vertical separation above FL290 question.
 

I am reviewing, with a view to responding to, an EU consultation on Standardised Rules of the Air (SERA) intended to come into force throughout Europe in December 2012. One proposed rule prohibits some types of clearance above FL285 in areas where a vertical separation minimum of 300 m (1 000 ft) is applied above FL 290.

The effect of the proposed rule would be to make the TRA(G)s that exist in some areas of the UK illegal.

I know from CAP 393 that the semi-circular rule for the UK allows for 1,000 feet separation above 19,500' but below 43,000'. What I don't know is whether normal ATC practise in UK airspace is to work to a 1,000' vertical separation or 2,000' separation in that altitude band.

I would appreciate some guidance to help me decide whether to comment on that particular proposal.

Above FL290 it's 1000' separation between RVSM equipped traffic, 2000' for non RVSM traffic.

Many thanks.

Should add that is UK specific. Non RVSM aircraft are allowed to transit the airspace to get above/below the RVSM area, but are not allowed to cruise in it. Exceptions are State aircraft, aircraft operating under an Airspace Co-ordination Notice or similar, or aircraft in Danger Areas or TRAs.

As you move away from the edge of Europe, the ability to transit the airspace to get above/below is removed. So you won't be able to do it in Germany or Switzerland for example.