In aviation, what does "MEL" stand for?

In aviation, "MEL" stands for Minimum Equipment List. This document is crucial for operators and ensures that an aircraft can continue to safely operate even if certain equipment or instruments are inoperative. The MEL provides a comprehensive list of the minimum items that must be functional for the aircraft to be considered airworthy for a specific flight, along with any associated procedures that need to be followed.

This is essential for maintaining safety and compliance with regulatory standards while allowing operators some flexibility in managing minor equipment failures. This ensures that airlines can efficiently conduct operations without compromising safety, as they can still fly with certain equipment inoperative as long as it meets the criteria specified in the MEL.