I forgot the upper limit of RVSM airspace (my mistake), it is true that at this moment the flight level is 13100m, which corresponds to 43000ft to be set by the pilots. Above RVSM airspace, this gives 600m separation. But since you mention 300m, I have to say that 300m separation (RVSM) and FL430 is an impossible "marriage".Lysexpat wrote:I don't think this is correct.
In China the separation is 300m and not 1000ft.
13100m is 42980ft so there is no need for a level 431.
I think 431 is the level they achieved during certification.
If RVSM would be extended upwards, the limits would have to be changed, because it is vital "feet-flyers" keep their 1000ft separation (this is the main reason why you cannot use the meter indication on your flight displays and "round it off" to a feet value. You HAVE to use the provided tables, and you only use the feet indications on these tables). So it is possible in the future 43000ft cannot be used anymore, it would have to be increased to 43100ft or you would only have 900ft separation with the lower used flight level (42100ft in the opposite direction). If that would ever happen, the 787 would lose it's highest available flight level in China. 777 is exactly the same, its maximum certified pressure altitude is 43100ft.
PS: aircraft testing and certification is not really "let's see how far we can go". It's a very well predertermined testing of values the aircraft is designed for. Real limits depend on limit loads, ultimate loads,... etc. If the certified altitude is F431, it is a very well chosen number in very early stages of design "on paper".
