What must pilots operating in non-RVSM compliant jets state upon initial contact in RVSM airspace?

In the context of Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace, pilots flying aircraft that are not RVSM compliant must inform Air Traffic Control (ATC) of their aircraft's status upon initial contact. The requirement to state the aircraft is "Negative RVSM" is crucial for the safety and efficiency of air traffic management. This designation helps ATC maintain safe vertical separation between aircraft operating within RVSM airspace, which is typically limited to aircraft certified to fly at reduced vertical separations of 1,000 feet between FL290 and FL410.

By declaring "Negative RVSM," pilots alert ATC that their aircraft does not meet the performance standards necessary for RVSM operations, which allows ATC to plan accordingly and provide appropriate separation from compliant aircraft. This communication ensures safety in an airspace where vertical spacing is critical due to the increased traffic density and the reduced buffer space between aircraft.

In contrast, the other answer choices do not properly communicate the necessary information regarding RVSM compliance status. Options such as "RVSM compliant" or "RVSM approved" would incorrectly imply that the aircraft meets the RVSM requirements, while "Standard operation" does not convey any specificity about RVSM status, thereby failing the requirement for clear communication in RVSM