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Aviation vocabulary · Maintenance

MEL

Meaning in aviation, with examples

abbreviationCommon term

In aviation, MEL means: Minimum equipment list: an approved document that shows which equipment may be inoperative for a flight to depart, under what conditions and for how long.

In Turkish: minimum teçhizat listesi, MEL

How it is used

Each airline writes its MEL from the manufacturer's master list (MMEL). Engineers and pilots check whether a defect can be deferred under it. Inoperative items get an 'INOP' placard and a time limit category (A, B, C or D).

Example sentences

  1. The MEL allows us to fly with one air conditioning pack inoperative, but with a lower maximum level.

  2. Check the MEL before you accept the aircraft.

Common collocations

  • MEL item
  • dispatch under the MEL
  • MEL category
  • MEL restriction
  • check the MEL
  • defectA fault in a part or system of an aircraft that must be recorded and then either repaired or formally deferred before the next flight.
  • technical logThe official record kept on board in which crews write down defects and engineers record maintenance work, so the aircraft's condition is always documented.
  • airworthyIn a safe condition to fly and meeting all the technical and legal requirements for its type. The related noun is airworthiness.
  • line maintenanceRoutine checks and small repairs done at the airport between flights, such as daily checks, wheel changes and fixing minor defects, so the aircraft can keep flying.

More terms: Maintenance

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