What does "MEL" stand for in aviation?

In aviation, "MEL" stands for Minimum Equipment List. This document is critical as it specifies the equipment that must be functioning for an aircraft to be considered airworthy for flight. The MEL is derived from the aircraft’s type certificate and outlines the minimum acceptable operating conditions for safety and regulatory compliance.

Having an MEL allows for flexibility in operations by permitting specific procedures for aircraft that may have inoperative equipment. This means that as long as the conditions outlined in the MEL are followed, the flight can proceed safely, contributing to efficient flight operations. Airlines and operators constantly use this list to manage maintenance and operational capabilities effectively, ensuring safety without grounding aircraft unnecessarily.

Understanding the purpose of the Minimum Equipment List is vital for pilots and flight crews as they assess aircraft readiness for flight, and it also has implications for compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards.