FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Regulations (Part 121)Easy
A Part 121 aircraft has an inoperative APU discovered during preflight. The dispatcher checks the aircraft's Minimum Equipment List (MEL) as authorized under 14 CFR 121.628. What is the primary purpose of the MEL in this situation?
- AIt authorizes dispatch of the aircraft with specific inoperative equipment under stated conditions and limitations
- BIt provides the maintenance schedule for all future inspections on the aircraft
- CIt grants the PIC unrestricted authority to depart regardless of the equipment status
- DIt replaces the need for any maintenance log entries regarding the discrepancy
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. It authorizes dispatch of the aircraft with specific inoperative equipment under stated conditions and limitations
14 CFR 121.628 permits operation of an aircraft with inoperative instruments or equipment if that operation is authorized by an FAA-approved Minimum Equipment List (MEL), which specifies conditions, limitations, and required placarding or maintenance procedures for dispatching with the item inoperative.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The MEL addresses dispatch with inoperative equipment, not general maintenance scheduling.
- C. The MEL imposes conditions and limitations; it does not grant unrestricted departure authority.
- D. Maintenance log entries are still required to document the discrepancy and MEL application.
Minimum Equipment List (121.628)
An FAA-approved document that authorizes dispatch of an aircraft with specific inoperative instruments or equipment under defined conditions.
- Approved as part of the operator's operations specifications
- Specifies conditions, limitations, and placard requirements for each item
- Maintenance log entries are still required to document the discrepancy
Memory trick: 'Missing but Managed' — MEL lets you fly with listed gaps