What is the required operational status of the autopilot for RVSM operations?

For operations in Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace, the autopilot must be functional. This requirement is critical because RVSM airspace allows aircraft to operate with only 1,000 feet of vertical separation between them, which necessitates precise altitude control to ensure safety and avoid unintended altitude deviations. A functional autopilot plays a crucial role in maintaining the required altitude with a high degree of precision, thereby enhancing safety in this tightly controlled environment.

The other options do not fulfill the necessary criteria for RVSM operations. Certification for RVSM is indeed important, but it must be operational as well. An inoperative autopilot would not meet the demands of RVSM operations, as it could lead to challenges in maintaining altitude within the required limits. Lastly, while the autopilot must be installed, it is not enough for it to simply exist; it must also be functional to comply with operational requirements.