What is the maximum cruise Mach speed allowed in RVSM airspace?

The maximum cruise Mach speed allowed in Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace is specifically set at 0.82 Mach. This limit is established to maintain safe spacing between aircraft flying at the higher altitudes typically associated with RVSM operations. The purpose of RVSM is to allow aircraft to safely operate with reduced vertical separation from each other, typically from FL290 to FL410. By setting a maximum speed limit, air traffic control can ensure that all aircraft can maintain predictable and stable speeds, facilitating safe navigation and separation.

Options outside of 0.82 Mach either exceed or fall below this necessary speed range, thus not aligning with the operational safety standards for RVSM airspace.