I'm sorry about above post. I found the appendix 4.

The way I read and understand this is that is a guide for establishing operating procedures (among many, many, many other things) for Companies, operators, airlines to operate in RVSM airspace. They are not binding by them selves. Maybe for a part 91 operator!

However, if you work for an operator under 135 or 121 you are bound by what your training program and operation specifications says. Those are in them selves reviewed by your company's POI and approved.

My company can not dispatch an aircraft into RVSM airspace without an operational and functional autopilot. The use of an autopilot is recommended, but not required.

So if you fell like it you can climb, cruise and descend back through FL290 without the use of an autopilot.

Personally I like to use "George" every now and then to make sure it actually works and give my self and my co-pilot a break.