Air Traffic Control Fully Certified
Air Traffic Control Time Certified In Pos 1 (mon) 6
Confusion; Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance
Aircraft; Procedure
The pilot of Aircraft X entered my airspace at FL270. The Pilot requested FL350 and direct LBL just south of CME. He stated that the aircraft was equipped to fly in Non-RVSM airspace. I climbed the aircraft. The pilot and I had a somewhat long discussion as to whether or not he could legally enter RVSM airspace. After questioning him; I got the unfortunate impression that it was legal for him to enter that airspace. It turns out that he could enter the airspace because he was a 'test flight' but he obviously needed the required 2000 feet separation and proper coordination; neither of which I conducted. Aircraft X didn't violate anyone in my airspace; but I'm sure he did later on during the en-route phase of his flight. Aircraft X was also filed as a /L but he was really a /G hence; no coral box.Pilots need to file proper flight plans; especially concerning their equipment suffixes. Also; I as the radar controller could have used better communication with the pilot as far as NON-RVSM airspace is concerned.
ZAB Controller describes a situation where the aircraft suffix is different then what it actually is. This error may have led to a loss of separation throughout the flight of the aircraft. The aircraft suffix was actually a G but filed as a L; which allowed the aircraft to be in RVSM airspace.