What does the acronym 'MEL' stand for?

The acronym 'MEL' stands for Minimum Equipment List. This is an essential document that outlines the equipment that must be functional for the aircraft to be considered airworthy under certain conditions. The MEL is crucial in aviation because it allows flight crews to operate an aircraft safely and legally when certain equipment is inoperative, provided that the operation adheres to specific guidelines defined in the MEL. Each aircraft type has its own MEL, which includes the equipment items that can be inoperative and the implications for that specific flight operation.

Understanding the MEL is fundamental for pilots as it directly impacts their decision-making regarding the safety and legality of flying with certain equipment malfunctions. It serves to ensure that any equipment deficiencies are managed properly and that safety is never compromised.