Minimum Equipment List (MEL) 

Course Overview

This course builds practical and regulatory knowledge of Minimum Equipment Lists (MEL) for aviation professionals. Learners will explore MEL purpose and structure, related regulatory frameworks (ICAO, EASA, FAA), MMEL development and conversion, Configuration Deviation Lists (CDL), and real-world case studies to reinforce safe and compliant decision-making.

Learning Objectives

• Explain the definition, purpose and scope of an MEL.
• Understand international and regional regulatory requirements (ICAO, EASA, FAA).
• Differentiate between MMEL, MEL, CDL and DDL.
• Describe the MMEL development and approval process.
• Draft and interpret typical MEL entries using the five-column format.
• Apply MEL knowledge through real case studies and safety analysis.

Course Modules

Module 1 — Fundamentals of MEL

• 1.1 MEL — Definition & Purpose
• 1.2 Importance of MEL in Aviation
• 1.3 Introduction to MMEL, CDL, and DDL

Module 2 — Regulatory Framework

• 2.1 Regulatory Background — ICAO
  • ICAO Annex 6
  • ICAO Annex 6 — Chapter 6
  • Attachment E — Guidance on MEL
• 2.2 Regulatory Background — EASA
  • ORO.MLR.105 — MEL requirements
  • CAT.IDE.A.105 — Minimum equipment for flight
  • ARO.OPS — MEL approval processes
• 2.3 Regulatory Background — FAA
  • CFR Title 14 — Aeronautics & Space
  • Part 91 — 91.213 (General Operating and Flight Rules)
  • Part 121, Part 125, Part 135 — applicability to MELs

Module 3 — Master Minimum Equipment List (MMEL)

• MMEL definition, purpose and scope
• MMEL development process
• Format and content of the MMEL
• Difference between MEL and MMEL

Module 4 — Minimum Equipment List (MEL)

• Typical layout of an MEL
• Five-column format (FAA & EASA guidance)
• MEL categories and procedures
• MEL content and preamble
• Step-by-step drafting from MMEL to MEL

Module 5 — Configuration Deviation List (CDL)

• Introduction to CDL
• Types of CDL items
• CDL approval process
• Difference between CDL and MEL

Module 6 — Case Studies

• Flybe Embraer 195 — Irish Sea (1 Aug 2008)
• Spanair Flight 5022 (2008)
• Safety lessons, human factors, and MEL/CDL relevance

Who Should Attend?

• Airworthiness & Regulatory Personnel
• Maintenance Managers and CAMO Staff
• Operations and Safety Officers
• Flight Dispatchers and Tech Ops
• Auditors and Compliance Teams

Final Assessment & Certification

Upon completion, participants will take a final assessment to demonstrate their understanding. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to those who meet the passing criteria.

• Mode: Online
• Course Duration: 60 minutes
• Validity: 365 days
• We carefully evaluate the candidates taking up this course. Email us at info@academyaviationonline.com and share your interest in taking up this course.