Since the implementation of RVSM over the North Atlantic, there has always been the option of offseting course, without request, up to 2NM right for wake turbulence and also to prevent two jets hitting beak-to-beak if one is at the wrong altitude.

I recently flew a reserve C-5 trip in the Far East and AP-3 (our source doc for Pacific airspace) allows up to 2NM offsets in several of the FIRs we transited. I looked at AP-1 (source doc for North/South Amercia) and it allows offsets in certain FIRs, for example, Brazil.

I haven't flown for the airlines since 2003 and it was always domestic and not RVSM at the time. Some of the airline guys in my reserve unit tell me that you can offset course, without asking for it, in other airspace as well, including US domestic and European controlled airspace. Is that right? I think it's a good idea, esp in Eastern Europe and Western Asia (Turkey, the 'Stans, etc.). I just want to be putting out good, referenced info for our younger pilots.

I can't find any references for strategic lateral offset in any regions other than the various oceanic FIRs and South America. I'm not asking you guys to spoon feed me (OK, maybe a little), but could someone tell me if you're allowed to offset in controlled airspace in North America or Europe and point me to the FAA or ICAO source doc?

Thanks, Fredrico