Minimum Equipment List (MEL) Customisation
A guide to aircraft Minimum Equipment List (MEL) customisation, approval and use, including a regulatory review.
Master the art of MEL Customisation and gain a deep understanding of EASA dispatch regulations.
Course Overview
In the world of aviation operations, the Minimum Equipment List (MEL) is more than just a document—it is the vital tool that balances safety with operational reliability. The MEL Customisation course is designed to guide aviation professionals through the complex process of developing, customising, and approving an MEL in compliance with EASA regulations.
Moving beyond basic theory, this course provides a strong regulatory foundation, starting from ICAO standards and building up to specific EASA requirements (Part-ARO, Part-ORO, and CS-MMEL). You will learn exactly how to transform a manufacturer’s Master Minimum Equipment List (MMEL) into a compliant, operator-specific MEL. Whether you are an engineer, a compliance manager, or technical pilot, this course ensures you have the know-how to handle MEL updates, approvals, and operational procedures effectively
Raven also offers “MEL Fundamentals” course for those who are only interested on learning how to use the MEL.
Learning Experience
4 hrs Asynchronous (Interactive Recorded Content)
Target Audience
MEL Customisation course is specifically tailored for aviation professionals responsible for the technical management and airworthiness of aircraft dispatch standards:
- MEL Authors & Technical Writers: Personnel responsible for drafting and maintaining the MEL.
- CAMO & Engineering Staff: Professionals involved in aircraft configuration control and continuing airworthiness.
- Compliance & Safety Managers: Staff who must audit MEL processes and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Authority Inspectors: Personnel within National Aviation Authorities in the EASA region responsible for MEL approval.
- Experienced Operational Personnel: Pilots and dispatchers looking to deepen their regulatory knowledge beyond standard user training.
This course can also be used to complement operators’ training programmes to fulfil MEL training as stated in AMC1 ORO.GEN.110(e).
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
- Regulatory Framework: Understand the hierarchy of regulations, from ICAO Annex 6 to EASA Part-ORO.MLR and CS-MMEL, and how they govern aircraft dispatch.
- OSD Box Concept: Grasp the “Operational Suitability Data” concept and distinguish between mandatory data (Box 1) and recommendations (Box 2) provided by manufacturers.
- Rectification Principles: Gain deep insight into Rectification Interval Categories (A, B, C, D) and the strict rules governing Rectification Interval Extensions (RIE).
Skills
- MEL Drafting: Learn how to draft an MEL Preamble and customise items to reflect specific aircraft configurations, including STCs and Service Bulletins.
- Procedure Development: Acquire the ability to validate and customise Operational (O) and Maintenance (M) procedures to suit your specific operation.
- Gap Analysis: Learn to effectively compare MMEL revisions against your current MEL to ensure compliance within the 90-day update window.
Competence
- Operational Decision Making: Apply “GO”, “NO-GO”, and “GO-IF” logic to complex scenarios, ensuring acceptable levels of safety are maintained during dispatch.
- Approval Management: Develop the confidence to prepare MEL submissions and liaise with Competent Authorities for initial approvals and updates.
FAQ
What is the difference between MMEL and MEL?
The MMEL (Master Minimum Equipment List) is established by the aircraft manufacturer as part of the Operational Suitability Data (OSD). The MEL (Minimum Equipment List) is prepared by the operator. It must be customised to the operator’s specific aircraft and cannot be less restrictive than the MMEL
How do I handle “Non-Safety Related Items” in MEL customisation?
Non-safety related items (like galley equipment or entertainment systems) are often not listed in the MMEL. However, operators can include them in the MEL, typically with a Category D rectification interval, provided they do not affect airworthiness or safety procedures.
What is a Rectification Interval Extension (RIE)?
An RIE allows an operator to extend the repair deadline for Category B, C, and D items once, for the same duration as the original interval. This is only permitted if the MEL Preamble and the operator’s procedures allow for it, and it cannot be used for Category A items.
When must an MEL be updated?
An MEL must be updated when the manufacturer issues a revision to the MMEL. Under EASA regulations, operators generally have 90 days from the effective date of the MMEL revision to update their MEL and submit it for approval.
Does this course cover “Dashed” items?
Yes. The course explains how to handle items where the quantity installed or required is listed as a “dash” (-) in the MMEL. It guides you on using the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) and Illustrated Parts Catalogue (IPC) to determine the correct quantities for your specific aircraft serial number.
Course Content
About Instructor
Course Includes
- 7 Lessons
- 28 Waypoints
- 1 Quiz
- Course Certificate