004AUS MEL CAP-03-MEL-Rev-11

CIVIL AVIATION PUBLICATION
CAP 03
MINIMUM EQUIPMENT LIST (MEL)

CONTENTS
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CAP 03
MINIMUM EQUIPMENT LIST (MEL)
CONTENTS
Section Title Page No.
1. Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 1
1.1.1 AOC Applicants ....................................................................................................................... 1
1.1.2 General Aviation Operators ................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Purpose ................................................................................................................................. 2
2. MEL/MMEL and Type Certificate ......................................................................................... 2

2.1 General ................................................................................................................................... 2
2.2 Purpose of MEL ..................................................................................................................... 3
3. Preparation of the MEL and the Approval ........................................................................... 3

3.1 Preparation of the MEL .......................................................................................................... 3
3.1.1 MMEL Acquisition ................................................................................................................. 4
3.1.2 Operator MEL Development Process .................................................................................... 4
3.1.3 Conformance with the MMEL ............................................................................................... 4
3.1.3.1 MEL Content........................................................................................................................... 4
3.1.3.2 Non-safety-related Equipment ............................................................................................. 5
3.2 MEL Development Procedures .............................................................................................. 5
3.2.1 MEL Format and Content ...................................................................................................... 5
3.2.2 MEL Basic Format .................................................................................................................. 6
3.2.3 MEL Page Format .................................................................................................................. 6
3.2.4 List of Effective Pages ............................................................................................................ 6
3.2.5 Table of Contents .................................................................................................................. 6
3.2.6 MEL Preamble ....................................................................................................................... 6
3.2.7 Notes and Definitions ............................................................................................................ 7
3.2.8 Operational and Maintenance Procedures............................................................................ 7
3.2.9 Rectification Interval Categories ........................................................................................... 8
3.2.10 Equipment Requirement Specification ................................................................................. 9
3.2.11 Aircraft Configuration ........................................................................................................... 9
3.2.12 Operational Approvals .......................................................................................................... 9
3.2.13 Inoperative Exits .................................................................................................................... 9
3.2.14 Equipment Removal .............................................................................................................. 9
3.2.15 Electronic MEL ....................................................................................................................... 9
3.3 Exceptions ........................................................................................................................... 10
3.4 MEL Approval ...................................................................................................................... 10
4. Amendment of MEL ............................................................................................................ 10

4.1 Amendment Timescales ...................................................................................................... 10
4.2 Voluntary Amendment ........................................................................................................ 11
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5. Operational Use of the MEL ............................................................................................... 11

5.1 Deferral of Items ................................................................................................................. 11
5.1.1 Requirements ...................................................................................................................... 11
5.1.2 Review of Deferred Items ................................................................................................... 11
5.2 Placarding ............................................................................................................................ 12
5.2.1 Requirements to Placard/Placard Control .......................................................................... 12
5.2.2 Placard Criteria .................................................................................................................... 12
5.2.3 Multiple Placards ................................................................................................................ 12
5.2.4 Temporary Placards ............................................................................................................ 12
5.3 Dispatch................................................................................................................................ 13
5.4 Operational and Maintenance Items .................................................................................. 13
5.5 Non-Standard Operations .................................................................................................... 14
5.6 Operations with Multiple Unserviceabilities ...................................................................... 14
5.7 Rectification Intervals .......................................................................................................... 14
5.8 Rectification Interval Extension (RIE) for AOC Holders ........................................................ 15
5.8.1 Principles of RIEs .................................................................................................................. 15
5.8.1.1 AOC Holders ......................................................................................................................... 15
5.8.1.2 GA Operators ....................................................................................................................... 15
5.8.2 Application for the use of RIEs ............................................................................................. 15
5.8.3 RIE Procedure ....................................................................................................................... 16
5.8.4 Authorisation ....................................................................................................................... 16
5.8.5 Use of RIEs ............................................................................................................................ 16
5.9 Operations outside the Scope of the MEL .......................................................................... 17
6. Training ............................................................................................................................... 17
6.1 Familiarisation Programme – Ground Personnel ................................................................ 17
6.2 Familiarisation Programme – Pilot-in-Command ............................................................... 17
Appendix 1 Example MEL Preamble .............................................................................................. APP 1-1

Appendix 2 MEL Approval Process Flowchart ................................................................................ APP 2-1
Appendix 3 Flowchart for the Use of CAP 03 when Preparing an MEL ........................................ APP 3-1
Appendix 4 List of CAR OPS 1 Requirements & Guidance Relating to MELs ................................. APP 4-1
Appendix 5 Example of Rectification Interval Extension Report Form .......................................... APP 5-1
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 General
[CAR OPS 1.030 and CAR OPS 3.030 require operators of Commercial Air Transportation aircraft
and CAR OPS 2A.405and CAR OPS 2H.401 require operators of General Aviation aircraft
respectively, registered in San Marino, when intending to operate with inoperative or missing
equipment, to establish a Minimum Equipment List (MEL) as part of the Operations Manual.]
Also where a MMEL is provided for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) CAR OPS 4.806 requires the
operator to establish a MEL. The MEL must be approved by the CAA, and an approved MEL will
permit the pilot-in-command to determine if the flight may be commenced or continued with
the prevailing equipment deficiencies.
A CAA MEL approval will in no circumstances permit operations outside the constraints of the
Master Minimum Equipment List (MMEL), if this exists. In the context of this document, the term
‘MMEL’ should be interpreted to mean MMEL or MMEL Supplement.
Where no MMEL exists for the aircraft type, or where an existing MMEL refers to regulations
other than CAR OPS, aircraft operators should use this MEL CAP to produce an MEL specific to
their aircraft. However, the material in this MEL CAP should not be used to overwrite the MMEL
other than for the purpose(s) described.
1.1.1 AOC Applicants
The approval of the MEL will be part of the AOC approval process. An AOC cannot be issued
without approval of the MEL.
1.1.2 General Aviation Operators
The San Marino CAA recognises that the preparation of an MEL for submission can take a period
of time, and therefore will consider applications from GA aircraft operators and RPA operators
for the issue of an approval to use the Master Minimum Equipment List for up to 30 days.
This time frame allows for the preparation of an MEL, submission to the San Marino CAA for
approval, and any recommended changes, if required, following review.
An approval under CAR OPS 2A.405(b)(2) may be granted to permit an operator to utilise the
Master Minimum Equipment List, which is identified with revision number and date. The
approval is valid for a maximum of 30 days and automatically expires once the operator’s MEL is
approved.
The MMEL approval, when granted, will be for a specified limited period of up to 30 days, and a
copy of CAR OPS 2A must be carried and consulted for guidance when the statements, such as
“Refer to National Requirements”, is made in the “Remarks or Exceptions” column of the MMEL.
[It is CAA policy that, a flight should not be commenced when any of the instruments, items of
equipment or functions required for the intended flight are inoperative or missing, unless the
aircraft is operated in accordance with an approved MEL, if established or subject to a permit to
fly issued in accordance with applicable airworthiness requirements.]
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1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this CAP is to define and explain the policy of the CAA in regard to MELs. It
provides guidance and specifies the means for an operator to produce MELs and procedures, so
that an aircraft with unserviceable equipment may be dispatched in accordance with the
applicable requirements of CAR OPS.
An MEL Approval Process Flowchart is at Appendix 2.
2. MEL/MMEL AND TYPE CERTIFICATE
2.1 General
While the MMEL is for an aircraft type, the MEL is tailored to a specific San Marino-registered
aircraft and its operating environment, and may be dependent upon the route structure,
geographic location, and number of airports where spares and maintenance capability are
available etc. The MMEL cannot address these individual variables, or standard terms such as "As
required by Operational Requirements". It is for this reason that an MMEL will not normally be
accepted by the CAA as a substitute for the MEL. It is the responsibility of the aircraft operator to
develop appropriate operational "(O)" and maintenance "(M)" procedures (see paragraph 3.2.8),
or to use documents issued by the Type Certificate Holder, such as a Dispatch Deviations Guide,
where these documents are available.
An MEL approval can only be issued if operation with specified unserviceable equipment meets
the applicable requirements of CAR OPS, and the level of safety achieved is not less than the
minimum standard either implied or specified by the aircraft certification basis (defined in the
Type Certificate).
The basis of the procedures described in this CAP is that each aircraft type with a Maximum Total
Mass Authorised (MTMA) exceeding 2730kgs will have an MMEL. The MMEL may be a stand-
alone document, or may be an MMEL Supplement to be used in conjunction with a specific
MMEL.
Note: Aircraft which are modified may have AFM supplements which also indicate additional
MEL items to be included (especially navigation equipment)
The operator’s MEL must be based on the applicable MMEL; Transport Canada’s for aircraft with
a TC Type Certificate, EASA for an EASA Type Certificate, FAA for an FAA Type Certificate or ANAC
for an ANAC Type Certificate. The easiest way to determine which MMEL is relevant is to verify
what is listed on the current valid Certificate of Airworthiness. Where no MMEL exists for the
type, or where an existing MMEL refers to regulations other than CAR OPS, operators should use
this CAP to produce appropriate MEL material.
Operators should note that where no MMEL (or equivalent document) exists, the MEL may only
include unserviceabilities expressly permitted by CAR OPS; or by special limitations and
procedures in the approved Flight Manual; or by agreement with the CAA and in accordance with
this CAP.
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An MMEL is not an exhaustive list of all equipment items required by law to be carried. An
operator may include in a MEL any additional items that are not required to be carried, where
such entries clarify legal requirements: for example, an operator may choose to specifically
identify those items of equipment that are required for RVSM operations, where there are
similar items of equipment that are not required for RVSM, and for which an alleviation exists.
The MMEL will deal with items of equipment which may safely be permitted to be unserviceable
under certain conditions. Those items which are essential for safety under all conditions will not
necessarily be included. It follows that all items related to the continued airworthiness of the
aircraft and not included in the MMEL are automatically required to be operative prior to flight.
In order to establish whether or not it is acceptable to dispatch with particular equipment

unserviceable, it will be necessary for each operator to prepare and seek CAA approval of their
own MEL. The MEL cannot be less restrictive than the appropriate MMEL, and may have to be
more restrictive to reflect an individual operator’s circumstances and capabilities.
Aircraft are generally fitted with equipment that is not required for safe operation under all
operating conditions, e.g. instrument lighting in day VMC, and the MEL should show clearly
under what conditions such equipment must be serviceable.
2.2 Purpose of MEL
The MEL is a joint operations and maintenance document prepared by an aircraft operator to:
(a) Identify the minimum equipment and conditions for an aircraft to maintain the Certificate
of Airworthiness in force and to meet the operating rules for the intended flight;
(b) Define operational and maintenance procedures necessary to maintain an acceptable

level of safety, and to deal with inoperative equipment.
The MMEL and associated MEL are alleviating documents. Their purpose is not, however, to
encourage the operation of aircraft with inoperative equipment. It is undesirable for aircraft to
be dispatched with inoperative equipment, and such operations are permitted only as a result of
careful analysis of each item to ensure that the acceptable level of safety is maintained. A
fundamental consideration is that the continued operation of an aircraft in this condition should
be minimised. The limitations governing rectification intervals are specified in paragraph 3.2.9.
The pilot-in-command retains the option to decline the use of MEL alleviations, and may elect
not to operate the aircraft with any particular MEL item inoperative.
3. PREPARATION OF THE MEL AND THE APPROVAL
3.1 Preparation of MEL
This CAP should be used in conjunction with the approved MMEL for the aircraft type. If no
MMEL exists, the content of this CAP may be used to develop an MEL, subject to the approval of
the CAA.
Aircraft operators should develop their MEL using the following principles:
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(a) The provisions of the approved MMEL should be used as the basis for their MEL;
(b) The MEL may not be less restrictive than the MMEL;
(c) The content of the MEL should take into consideration the operator’s aircraft equipment,
configuration and operational conditions, routes being flown and the requirements of the
CAA;
(d) The MEL may not deviate from any applicable Airworthiness Directive or any other
Mandatory Requirement;
(e) The MEL and associated material should be designed to be easily used operationally by
those personnel who will need to consult it. An MEL that is not clearly presented and easy
to use will often result in inappropriate or incomplete application of the specified
procedures, with a consequent reduction in safety levels.
The material provided in this CAP is intended to be generic and is not system- (equipment or
installation) specific. Therefore the (O) and (M) references are also generic and are included as
they may apply to certain cases. It is the responsibility of the aircraft operator to determine the
applicability of (O) and (M) references when establishing their MEL. This principle is also
applicable in the absence of (O) and/or (M) references.
The flow diagram in Appendix 3 below explains how to use the CAP when preparing an MEL.
3.1.1 MMEL Acquisition
The aircraft operator must ensure that they use the latest version of the appropriate MMEL to
develop their MEL. The latest MMEL’s and any associated Supplements are often available for
viewing or downloading from the website of a contracting state Regulatory Authority (usually
that of the Type Certificating Authority). Alternatively, aircraft operators may obtain MMEL’s
directly from the Type Certificate Holder, who can normally provide a MMEL, along with a
revision service, on a commercial basis.
3.1.2 Operator MEL Development Process
The aircraft operator should develop their MEL, and all subsequent amendments, as a joint
operations and maintenance project, based on the current MMEL revision.
3.1.3 Conformance with the MMEL
3.1.3.1 MEL Content
(a) An aircraft operator’s MEL must reflect the current limitations in the applicable MMEL or
associated Supplement. When a revision is issued to an MMEL or associated Supplement,
the aircraft operator’s MEL need not be revised if the change is less restrictive than the
existing MEL;
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(b) When the MMEL or MMEL Supplement is amended so as to become more restrictive, or
when the CAA requires immediate amendment of the MEL, operators will be allowed 30
days from the date of notification of revision to amend their MEL.
(c) Except as noted above, the aircraft operator’s MEL shall be amended to reflect the most
recent approved version of the MMEL or MMEL Supplement within 90 days of receipt of
the latest revision or amendment.
3.1.3.2 Non-Safety-Related Equipment
Non-safety-related equipment includes those items related to the convenience, comfort, or

entertainment of passengers. They may include items such as galley equipment, video
equipment, ashtrays, stereo equipment, and overhead reading lamps.
Non-safety-related equipment must not have an effect on the continued airworthiness or safe
operation of the aircraft. This equipment does not require a rectification interval and need not
be listed in an operator's MEL if it is not addressed in the MMEL. If an aircraft operator chooses
to list this equipment in the MEL, it may be given a ‘D’ Category rectification interval. The
exceptions to this rule are:
(a) Where non-safety-related equipment serves a second function, such as video equipment
being used for cabin safety briefings, aircraft operators must develop and include
operational contingency procedures in the MEL in case of an equipment malfunction;
(b) Where non-safety-related equipment is part of another aircraft system, for example the
electrical system, procedures must be developed and included in the MEL for
deactivating and securing in case of malfunction.
In these cases, the item must be listed in the MEL, with compensating provisions and
deactivation instructions if applicable. The rectification interval will be dependent on the
secondary function of the item and the extent of its effect on other systems.
The *** symbol for optional equipment must be not present in the MEL. The MEL must be
tailored. Optional equipment must either be included in the MEL if fitted, or not mentioned if
not fitted.
The CAA does not require an MEL to contain a Non-essential Equipment and Furnishings (NEF)
list. Instead, the MMEL’s Passenger Convenience items entry can be used.
3.2 MEL Development Procedures
3.2.1 MEL Format and Content
The format of the MEL should follow that of the MMEL, and the Preamble provided in Appendix
1 should be used. The logical sequence of the material in this CAP is based upon the use of the
ATA 2200 classification.
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3.2.2 MEL Basic Format
The MEL should include the following: a List of Effective Pages, a Table of Contents, the
Preamble, Notes and Definitions, a section for each aircraft system, and amendment record
page. The Preamble and Definitions shall be based upon, but no less restrictive than, the relevant
MMEL.
Aircraft operators must specify the revision status of the MMEL and MMEL Supplement, and any
other documents such as a Dispatch Deviations Guide, used in the development of their MEL.
3.2.3 MEL Page Format
MEL format is at the discretion of the aircraft operator, provided that it is clear and
unambiguous. It is recommended that the MEL page format follow the normal MMEL page
format of five columns. The page numbering and individual MEL items should be in accordance
with the ATA 2200 code system.
3.2.4 List of Effective Pages
A List of Effective Pages (LEP) will be used to ensure that each MEL is up-to-date. It must list the
date of the last amendment for each page of the MEL. The date and revision status of each page
of the MEL must correspond to that shown on the List of Effective Pages.
Note: The effective date of the MEL (or amendment) should be for a future date, which will
allow the CAA adequate time to review and approve.
3.2.5 Table of Contents
The Table of Contents page should list the section for each aircraft system using the ATA 2200
listing as found in the MMEL. This scheme should be adhered to in the MEL, even if the resulting
list is not continuous. For example, if the MMEL contains ATA Items XX-1, XX-2, XX-3 and XX-4
and the operator does not have items XX-2 and XX-3, the second item in the MEL should still use
the number XX-4. The rule applies similarly to sub-items a), b) etc. Operators may use
customised MEL item numbering schemes provided they adhere to the basic ATA chapter
assignment (i.e., ATA 21 - Air Conditioning, ATA 22 – Auto Flight, etc.), and a unique number is
assigned to MEL items and sub-items. Pages should be numbered with the ATA system number
followed by the item number for that system (e.g., the page following 27-2-1 would be 27-2-2).
3.2.6 MEL Preamble
The purpose of the MEL Preamble is to provide direction on its philosophy and use of the MEL.
An example MEL Preamble for use by an aircraft operator is shown in Appendix 1. Aircraft
operators may develop their own Preamble, but it should contain at least the information
described in Appendix 1.
Unless specifically permitted, an inoperative item may not be removed from the aircraft, and the
Preamble should prohibit unauthorised removal.
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Note: The Preamble, Notes and Definitions in an MEL should not contradict the applicable
sections in the MMEL. Appendix 1 is shown as an example only, and should not be used to
overwrite provisions of the MMEL.
3.2.7 Notes and Definitions
Notes and Definitions are required to allow the user to interpret the MEL properly. An example
of Notes and Definitions can be found in Appendix 1. Additions and deletions to the Notes and
Definitions may be applied to the aircraft operator’s MEL as required.
3.2.8 Operational and Maintenance Procedures
(a) Dispatch with inoperative items is often acceptable only in accordance with special
operational or maintenance procedures. Where the MMEL indicates that this is the case,
the aircraft operator must establish appropriate procedures.
Aircraft operators, when comparing their MEL against the MMEL, should ensure that
where the (O) or (M) symbols appear in the MMEL, an operational or maintenance
procedure has been developed that provides clear direction to crewmembers and
maintenance personnel of the action to be taken. This procedure should be included in
the MEL.
Alternatively, when the procedure is already contained in another document that is

routinely available; e.g. elsewhere in the Operator’s Manuals for “(O)” procedures or the
Maintenance Manual for “(M)” procedures, the MEL may refer to a section of the
appropriate document;
(b) Other than the example in (a) it is not acceptable to only make reference to other
documents, as these may not be carried on board the aircraft and could be subject to
misinterpretation. The objective is to provide personnel with clear, concise direction on
how they are to proceed. Where the MMEL column 5 states, "as required by Operating
Requirements" or “as per National Regulations”, this wording must not appear in the
MEL; instead the content should be developed in consideration of the equipment
requirements of CAR OPS;
(c) Procedures recommended by the Type Certificate Holder may in most cases be adopted
for this purpose, but the ultimate responsibility for providing acceptable (O) and (M)
procedures for the MEL rests with the aircraft operator. These procedures will ensure
that an acceptable level of safety will be maintained.
The Type Certificate Holder is required to produce operational and maintenance

procedures such as Dispatch Deviation Guides, for use by aircraft operators. Dispatch
Deviation Guides, such as those produced by Boeing, Bombardier, Gulfstream and others,
may not be used as a stand-alone unedited documents to avoid including (O) and (M)
information in the MEL.
The same applies to the (O) and (M) chapters of an Airbus MMEL;
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(d) The manufacturer’s procedures (DDG, DDPG, DDPM, MPM, etc.) may be inserted into the
appropriate MEL pages, and submitted by the aircraft operator to form part of the MEL.
Dispatch Deviation Guides, and other similar documents are not approved by the CAA,
nor can they replace the MEL. If the Type Certificate Holder has not published operational
or maintenance procedures, the aircraft operator should develop appropriate procedures
and, if requested, submit them to the CAA. Transport Canada’s MMEL’s use a (M#)
symbol to highlight those items that can only be accomplished by a certified Aircraft
Technician. These type of items should carry over to the operator’s MEL in some format;
(e) DDG entries such as "in accordance with regulations" and "a procedure must be in place"
and "alternate procedures must be established and used" must be fully explained, or, if
covered in another manual carried on the aircraft, be fully referenced. The CAA's MEL
reviewer will require sight of the reference document;
(f) The manufacturer’s (O) and (M) procedures are not necessarily exhaustive. The operator
must add his own procedures if the manufacturers are vague or incomplete. For example,
with an inoperative Anti-Skid system an entry such as “Airplane Flight Manual corrections
must be made” is of little use if the crew has no access to the AFM’s performance graphs.
An acceptable entry in the Operational Procedures column would be e.g. “Anti-skid

inoperative runway analysis must be obtained from the performance provider” or “Use
FCOM Vol 1 Take-off – Performance In-flight (PI) section – Antiskid Inoperative.”
3.2.9 Rectification Interval Categories
The operator shall take account of the Rectification Interval (i.e. the maximum time an aircraft
may be operated between the deferral of an inoperative item and its rectification) given in the
MMEL when preparing an MEL.
The Rectification Interval in the MEL shall not be less restrictive than the corresponding
Rectification Interval in the MMEL.
Non-safety-related equipment such as reading lights and entertainment units need not be listed.
However, if they are listed, they must include a rectification interval category. These items may
be given a ‘D’ Category rectification interval provided any applicable (M) procedure (in the case
of electrically supplied items) is applied.
The Rectification Interval Categories are defined as follows:
Category A
No standard interval is specified, however, items in this category shall be rectified in accordance
with the conditions stated in the MEL. Whenever the time interval is specified in calendar days, it
shall start at 00:01 on the day following the day of discovery.
Category B
Items in this category shall be rectified within three (3) consecutive calendar days, excluding the
day of discovery.
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Category C
Items in this category shall be rectified within ten (10) consecutive calendar days, excluding the
day of discovery.
Category D
Items in this category shall be rectified as soon as is reasonably practical, but within one hundred
and twenty (120) consecutive calendar days, excluding the day of discovery.
3.2.10 Equipment Requirement Specification
Operators must replace MMEL cross-references to regulations other than CAR OPS with numeric
required quantities in the MEL. Dashes in the MMEL’s “Number Installed” and “Number
Required for Dispatch” must be converted to the actual quantities installed and required on the
aircraft. If the MEL covers more than one aircraft of the same type on which the numbers of
equipment items installed differ, the aircraft registrations must be entered alongside the
applicable quantities (see para 3.3 for exceptions).
3.2.11 Aircraft Configuration
The operator's MEL must reflect the actual aircraft configuration where the available relief
differs depending upon modification status, service bulletin accomplishment, aircraft
model/series or serial number applicability. The relief must either be included in the MEL, if
applicable; or not mentioned if not applicable.
3.2.12 Operational Approvals
Ops Spec/Navigation Approvals usually require that the MEL contain the relevant dispatch
conditions. The appropriate entry must be written in the Number Installed, Number Required
and the Remarks or Exceptions column; or a reference made to the appropriate manual where
the dispatch requirements may be found.
3.2.13 Inoperative Exits
Where provided in the MMEL, relief for inoperative main entry or service doors/slides may be
included in the operator's MEL only if blocked seating layouts and alternate evacuation
procedures are developed and submitted to the CAA for review.
3.2.14 Equipment Removal
Unserviceable equipment must not be removed from the aircraft unless specifically permitted by
the MEL or associated (M) procedures.
3.2.15 Electronic MEL
Paperless cockpit operators may present tailored electronic MEL’s for approval, but the CAA
must be given a text version. The same “rules” apply to electronic MEL’s in respect of optional
equipment, references to regulations and ATA alpha-numerics as to paper-based MEL’s.
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3.3 Exceptions
There are permissible exceptions to some of the above procedures:
(a) If CAR OPS does not provide sufficient information, CARs must be used for a TC-based
MMEL, EASA Ops (Commission Regulation (EC) No.965/2012) and JAA TGL 26 for an
EASA-based MMEL, and FARs and MEL Policy Letters for an FAA-based MMEL. As a last
resort, if a dispatch condition cannot be found from TC, FAA or ANAC sources for MMELs
issued by these authorities, TGL 26 may be used;
(b) The dash (-) symbol may be retained where it would be impractical to specify the Number
Required, for example in the number of lights in the cabin required for cabin crew to
perform their duties, or where the Number Required is subject to conditions specific to
the event; for example the Number of Fasten Seat Belt signs required to be visible to
passengers when other signs or placards are inoperative. However, the exceptions should
be few;
(c) CAR OPS 1/3.030 and CAR OPS 2A.405 require that the MEL be included in the Operations
Manual. For convenience, the MEL may be a stand-alone separate manual (or an
electronic document) so long as an appropriate entry is displayed in the Operations
Manual identifying the MEL as part of the Operations Manual suite;
(d) Because of difficulties experienced by MEL authors in determining Rectification Intervals

for Flight Data Recorders, the period and conditions of JAA TGL 26 may be used
irrespective of the origin of the MMEL.
3.4 MEL Approval
In order to use an MEL an operator must apply on Form SM 03 to obtain an Approval from the
CAA, in accordance with CAR OPS. The CAA will accept an MEL once satisfied that the submitted
MEL is not in conflict with the applicable MMEL or equivalent document and conforms with this
CAP. The applicant must declare this on the application form as well as confirming every item in
the MEL has been checked against the MMEL and “O” and “M” procedures have been developed
where appropriate.
The charge for the Approval will be in accordance with the current Scheme of Charges.
4. AMENDMENT OF MEL
4.1 Amendment Timescales
When the MMEL or MMEL Supplement is amended so as to become more restrictive, or when
the CAA requires immediate amendment of the MEL, operators will be allowed 30 days from the
date of notification of revision to amend their MEL.
In all other cases, when an MMEL or MMEL Supplement revision is issued, operators will be
allowed 90 days from the date of notification to amend their MEL.
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The MEL shall be appropriately amended, as and when applicable (O) or (M) procedures as
referenced in the MMEL are revised.
Every item in the MEL must be checked against the amended items in the MMEL and new “O”
and “M” procedures must be developed where appropriate.
The operator's MEL need not be amended if the change to the MMEL, MMEL Supplement or (O)
or (M) procedures is less restrictive than the existing MEL provisions.
4.2 Voluntary Amendment
Voluntary amendment of the MEL may be carried out as required by the operator, provided the
proposed change is no less restrictive than the MMEL. In this case, the CAA must still approve the
MEL amendment prior to its use.
Note: The effective date of the amendment should be for a future date, which will allow the CAA
adequate time to review and approve.
5. OPERATIONAL USE OF THE MEL
5.1 Deferral of Items
Procedures for the deferral and management of MEL items should be included in the aircraft
operator’s Technical Log or equivalent document. Personnel training requirements may be
included in Part D of the Operations Manual. The aircraft operator should ensure these
procedures are referenced in the MEL.
5.1.1 Requirements
These procedures comprise a method for:
(a) Recording deferral, transfer and/or rectification of inoperative equipment;
(b) Placarding requirements as per the MEL;
(c) Dispatching of an aircraft with deferred MEL item(s);
(d) Using a remote deferral system (if applicable);
(e) Controlling compliance with categorised rectification interval time limits; and
(f) Training of personnel who are responsible for MEL compliance procedures.
5.1.2 Review of Deferred Items
The operator of an aircraft registered in San Marino should ensure that any deferred items are
periodically reviewed to ensure that any accumulation of deferred defects neither conflict with
each other nor create an unacceptable increase in pilot workload.
CAP 03 Rev 11 11 01 April 2022

Notwithstanding the categorisation of item rectification intervals, it should be the aim of aircraft
operators to ensure that inoperative items are repaired as quickly as possible. It is the policy of
the CAA that optional inoperative equipment should be rectified or removed from an aircraft.
5.2 Placarding
Inoperative items should be placarded to inform crewmembers of equipment condition as

appropriate.
When they are accessible to the crew in flight, the control(s), and/or indicator(s) related to
inoperative unit(s) or component(s) should be clearly placarded. Though the MEL for some items
may require specific wording, the majority of items leave the placard wording and location to be
determined by the aircraft operator.
The aircraft operator shall provide the capability and instructions to the pilot-in-command to
ensure that the placard is in place prior to the aircraft being dispatched.
Note: Some MMEL’s indicate the need for a placard through the use of an asterisk (*). However,
the lack of an asterisk in an MMEL does not preclude the requirement for placarding.
5.2.1 Requirements to Placard/Placard Control
Placarding should be carried out in accordance with the placarding procedures established and
set out in the aircraft operator’s technical log or equivalent document. The method of placarding
should ensure that all inoperative items are placarded and that placards are removed and
accounted for when the defect is cleared.
The defective equipment/system shall be placarded so as to inform the pilot-in-command of the

inoperative condition(s) of the item. To the extent practicable, placards must be located as
indicated in the MEL, or adjacent to the control or indicator affected.
5.2.2 Placard Criteria
Where possible, placards should be self-adhesive and contain sufficient information about the
defect to permit the pilot-in-command to clearly understand the effect of the defect on the
aircraft’s continued safe operation.
5.2.3 Multiple Placards
If more than one placard is required for a MEL item, aircraft operators should ensure that all
placards are removed when the defect is cleared.
5.2.4 Temporary Placards
The pilot-in-command may install a temporary placard as required by the MEL, thereby enabling
the aircraft to continue to a location where the defect may be rectified or be re-deferred in
accordance with the deferral system.
CAP 03 Rev 11 12 01 April 2022

5.3 Dispatch
"Dispatch" for the purpose of the MEL/MMEL refers to the commencement of flight, which is
defined as “the point when an aircraft begins to move under its own power for the purpose of
preparing for take-off.” In the case of a helicopter, dispatch refers to the moment the helicopter
commences air or ground taxi.
The MEL is approved on the basis that equipment will be operative for flight unless the
appropriate MEL procedures have been carried out.
The aircraft operator’s MEL should include procedures to deal with any failures which occur
between the start of taxi and take-off brake release. Any failure which occurs after take-off
commences should be dealt with as an in-flight failure, by reference to the appropriate section of
the Aircraft Flight Manual or Operating Manual, if necessary.
5.4 Operational and Maintenance Items
Any item of equipment in the MEL which, when inoperative, would require an operational or
maintenance procedure to ensure an acceptable level of safety will be so identified in the
"remarks" or "exceptions" column of the MEL.
This will normally be "(O)" for an operational procedure, or "(M)" for a maintenance procedure.
“(O)(M)” means both operational and maintenance procedures are required.
(a) (O) Items
(1) Aircraft with inoperative equipment requiring an operational procedure may

continue in service following completion of the required MEL procedure for
deferral;
(2) Operational (O) procedures shall be accomplished in planning for and/or operating
with the listed item inoperative. Normally these procedures are accomplished by
the flight crew; however, other personnel may be qualified and authorised to
perform certain functions. The satisfactory accomplishment of all procedures,
regardless of who performs them, is the responsibility of the operator;
(b) (M) Items
(1) Aircraft with inoperative equipment requiring a maintenance procedure may

continue in service following completion of the required MEL procedure for
deferral;
(2) Maintenance (M) procedures shall be accomplished prior to operating with the
listed item inoperative. Normally these procedures are accomplished by
maintenance personnel; however, other personnel may be qualified and
authorised to perform certain functions. The satisfactory accomplishment of all
maintenance procedures, regardless of who performs them, is the responsibility of
the operator.
CAP 03 Rev 11 13 01 April 2022

5.5 Non-Standard Operations
Aircraft are often flown for purposes other than those associated with their most common use.
Such non-standard uses may well allow less stringent minimum equipment requirements.
Examples of non-standard use may be:
(a) Demonstration Flights;
(b) Test Flights – after maintenance;
(c) Training Flights;
(d) Ferry Flights – carrying neither passengers nor freight, to return the aircraft to a place
where it can be repaired.
Any reference to a reduction in minimum equipment requirements in an MEL must be clearly

identified as such, together with the type of non-standard flight applicable.
Note: Such non-standard flights may only be undertaken if the aircraft’s Flight Manual contains
the appropriate procedures and are authorised by the CAA.
5.6 Operations with Multiple Unserviceabilities
In most cases multiple unserviceabilities of unrelated aircraft systems cannot be addressed by

the MMEL, or consequently by the MEL. The decision as to whether or not to dispatch with
multiple unserviceabilities, which individually would be allowed by the MEL, will ultimately rest
with the pilot-in-command, taking into consideration advice from the Type Certificate Holder’s
MMEL where available.
5.7 Rectification Intervals
The operator is responsible for establishing an effective rectification programme that includes
tracking of the inoperative items and co-ordinating parts, personnel, facilities and procedures
necessary to ensure timely rectification. Operation of the aircraft is not allowed after expiry of
the Rectification Interval specified in the MEL unless the defect has been rectified.
Where the applicable MMEL or MMEL Supplement does not contain Rectification Intervals, all
entries included within the MMEL shall be classified with a Rectification Interval category ‘C’
(relating to 10 calendar days) in the MEL, except where there is an existing repair limit stated
within the proviso for a particular MMEL entry. The stated limit will remain in force, and the
entry should be identified as a category ‘A’ Rectification Interval in the MEL.
Once the applicable MMEL has been revised to include Rectification Intervals, this will supersede
the guidance given in the paragraph above, and operators will need to reflect the Rectification
Intervals in their MEL.
CAP 03 Rev 11 14 01 April 2022

5.8 Rectification Interval Extensions (RIEs) for AOC Holders
5.8.1 Principles of RIEs
Subject to the approval of the San Marino CAA, operators may be granted approval to utilise
RIE’s,
5.8.1.1 AOC Holders
AOC holders may apply using Form SM 03B for permission to use their procedures for the
extension of the applicable Rectification Intervals B, C, and D, for the same duration as specified
in the MEL, provided:
(a) a description of specific duties and responsibilities and procedures used for controlling
extensions must be established by the operator and detailed in the operators MEL and
accepted by the CAA;
(b) the operator only grants a one-time extension of the applicable Rectification Interval;
(c) the CAA is notified of the application of any extension within 10 days; and
(d) Rectification is accomplished at the earliest opportunity within the period of the
extension.
The operator should ensure that rectifications are accomplished at the earliest opportunity. RIEs
are introduced to allow operators to continue to operate an aircraft after the Rectification
Interval has expired if rectification has not been possible. An operator who utilises RIEs is
required to report all such uses, together with the appropriate justification, to the CAA. The CAA
is ultimately responsible for the oversight of RIEs.
5.8.1.2 GA Operators
GA Operators may apply for a one-off permission to extend a Rectification Interval but they must
apply to the CAA on each occasion an RIE is required using Form SM 03A. GA Operators may not
extend a Rectification Interval without explicit prior permission from the CAA.
5.8.2 Application for the use of RIEs
The operator shall make an application on Form SM 03A to the CAA for authorisation to be able
to use RIEs. The operator should provide the CAA with details of the name and position of the
nominated person responsible for the control of the company RIE procedure and details of the
specific duties and responsibilities established by the operator to control the use of RIEs.
Authorising Managers who must be senior with experience in technical and operations
management are to be listed by appointment and name.
The CAA will consider the engineering competence of the operator and the acceptability of the
Authorising Managers. Where an operator uses contracted-out maintenance facilities, the CAA
will judge whether the relationship between an operator and an independent maintenance
contractor is adequate for the purposes of RIEs.
CAP 03 Rev 11 15 01 April 2022

5.8.3 RIE Procedure
An RIE procedure must be defined by the operator, detailed in their MEL and agreed with the
CAA, and shall consist of:
(a) Consultation between the operational and technical staff of the operator as to the
requirement for the RIE and the recommendation of the proposal.
(b) Decision, made by the Authorising Manager to accept or reject the proposal based on
consultation.
(c) Authorisation, formal authorisation to inform the aircraft commander of the use of the
RIE.
(d) RIE Report on an operator form (Refer to Appendix 5), made to the CAA within 10 days of
the extension being authorised.
A system of consultation must be listed. Authorising Managers who must be senior with
experience in technical and operations management are to be listed by appointment and name.
5.8.4 Authorisation
The operator form at Appendix 5 is the Authorising and Reporting form. It is to be completed (all
boxes filled in) when the RIE is authorised and must contain the Authorising Manager’s name.
The CAA requires that the operator form is sent to the CAA within 10 days of being authorised.
The form will be used to check that the RIE was properly authorised and that the extension was
granted for appropriate reasons.
The operator form for RIE should be in the format as specified in Appendix 5. Modifications,
other than box size, are unacceptable although operators are free to include additional boxes
where required and by agreement with the CAA.
5.8.5 Use of RIEs
Operators are reminded that they must ensure that rectification is accomplished at the earliest
opportunity. This is applicable for both the standard Rectification Interval and for the RIE.
The RIE permits an operator to continue to dispatch an aircraft with particular equipment
unserviceable after the standard rectification interval has expired if, in the opinion of the
Authorising Manager, it is not reasonably practicable for the repair to be made within that
rectification interval. It is not intended that RIEs should be used purely to double the standard
rectification interval.
It is most important that the agreed procedures for the use of RIEs are followed. In the event
that operators do not comply with the laid down conditions, the CAA will take action by means
of warning letters and ultimately (normally a second incident) by removal of the authorisation to
utilise RIEs on a temporary or permanent basis.
CAP 03 Rev 11 16 01 April 2022

Note: Unwillingness on the part of the operator to obtain parts or equipment to rectify the
defect in the timeliest manner possible will be grounds for review and could result in the
withdrawal of the operator’s privilege to use Rectification interval extensions.
5.9 Operations outside the Scope of the MEL
The CAA may exempt an operator from compliance with the appropriate MEL on an individual
case-by-case basis, provided such exemption complies with applicable limitations in the MMEL.
6. TRAINING
6.1 Familiarisation Programme — Ground Personnel
Aircraft operators must ensure that when utilising the services of ground personnel the
personnel are familiarised with the MEL when appropriate, including placarding inoperative
equipment, deferral procedures, aircraft dispatch and any MEL-related procedures.
6.2 Familiarisation Programme — Pilot-in-Command
Aircraft operators should ensure that the pilot-in-command is familiar in the use of his MEL with
particular regard to pilot-in-command responsibilities.
CAP 03 Rev 11 17 01 April 2022

APPENDIX 1
EXAMPLE MEL PREAMBLE
(OPERATOR’S NAME)
MINIMUM EQUIPMENT LIST
(AIRCRAFT TYPE)
PREAMBLE
Note: This specimen Preamble is intended only as an example of what is required, and operators
may, with the approval of the CAA, vary the format and content of their MEL Preambles to suit
their own needs and requirements.
1 Introduction
The Minimum Equipment List (MEL) is based on the (Certificating Authority) Master Minimum
Equipment List (MMEL) (Revision, dated).
This MEL takes into consideration (the operator’s) particular aircraft equipment, configuration
and operational conditions, routes being flown and requirements set by the CAA.
This MEL will not deviate from any applicable Airworthiness Directive or any other Mandatory
Requirement, and will be no less restrictive than the MMEL.
The MEL is intended to permit operations with inoperative items of equipment for a period of
time until rectification can be accomplished.
Rectification is to be accomplished at the earliest opportunity.
MEL Conditions and Limitations do not relieve the pilot-in-command from determining that the
aircraft is in a fit condition for safe operation with specified unserviceabilities allowed by the
MEL.
The provisions of the MEL are applicable until the aircraft commences the flight, i.e. begins to
move under its own power for the purpose of preparing for take-off.
Any decision to continue a flight following a failure or unserviceability which becomes apparent
after the commencement of a flight must be the subject of pilot judgement and good
airmanship.
The pilot-in-command may continue to make reference to and use of the MEL as appropriate.
By approval of the MEL, the CAA permits dispatch of the aircraft for flight with certain items or
components inoperative, provided an acceptable level of safety is maintained by use of
appropriate operational or maintenance procedures, by transfer of the function to another
operating component, or by reference to other instruments or components providing the
required information.
CAP 03 Rev 11 APP 1-1 01 April 2022

2 Contents of MEL
The MEL contains only those items required by operating regulations or those items of
airworthiness significance which may be inoperative prior to dispatch, provided that appropriate
limitations and procedures are observed. Equipment obviously basic to aircraft airworthiness
such as wings, rudders, flaps, engines, landing gear, etc. are not listed and must be operative for
all flights.
It is important to note that:
ALL ITEMS WHICH ARE RELATED TO THE AIRWORTHINESS OF THE AIRCRAFT AND ARE NOT
INCLUDED IN THE LIST ARE AUTOMATICALLY REQUIRED TO BE OPERATIVE.
3 Criteria for Dispatch
The decision of the pilot-in-command of the flight to have allowable inoperative items corrected
prior to flight will take precedence over the provisions contained in the MEL. The pilot-in-
command may request requirements above the minimum listed whenever in his judgement such
added equipment is essential to the safety of a particular flight under the particular conditions
prevailing at the time.
The MEL cannot take into account all multiple unserviceabilities. Therefore, before dispatching
an aircraft with multiple MEL items inoperative, it must be assured that any interaction or
interrelationship between inoperative items will not result in degradation in the level of safety
and/or an undue increase in crew workload. It is particularly in this area of multiple deficiencies
(and especially deficiencies in related systems) that good judgement – based on the
circumstances of the case, including climatic and en-route conditions – must be used.
4 Maintenance Action
Every effort shall be made by the maintenance organisation to correct all technical defects as
early as practicable, and to ensure that the aircraft is released from a maintenance station in
fully operational condition. The pilot-in-command must be informed by maintenance as soon as
practicable should it be impossible to rectify the inoperative item prior to departure.
Whenever an aircraft is released by Maintenance for dispatch with items inoperative, the
following is required:
(a) The log book, or equivalent, aboard the aircraft must contain a detailed description of the
inoperative item(s), special advice to the flight crew, if necessary, and information about
corrective action taken;
(b) When they are accessible to the crew in flight, the control(s), and/or indicator(s) related
to inoperative unit(s) or component(s) must be clearly placarded;
(c) If inadvertent operation could produce a hazard such equipment must be rendered
inoperative (physically) as given in the appropriate maintenance procedure;

(d) The relevant operational (O) and maintenance (M) procedures are contained in (identify
the particular Manual, Section, Chapter or Part etc.);
(e) Unserviceable equipment must not be removed from the aircraft unless specifically
permitted by the MEL or associated (M) procedures.
5 Rectification Intervals
Inoperative items or components, deferred in accordance with the MEL, must be rectified at or
prior to the Rectification Intervals established by the following letter designators given in the
‘Rectification Interval Category’ column of the MEL. AOC holders may be eligible for Rectification
Interval Extension (RIE) – Refer to paragraph 5.8 of this CAP.
Category A
Items in this category shall be rectified within the limitations specified in the MEL entry,
commencing at 00:01 on the day following discovery for those items specified in calendar days.
Category B
Items in this category shall be rectified within three (3) consecutive calendar days, excluding the
day of discovery.
Category C
Items in this category shall be rectified within ten (10) consecutive calendar days, excluding the
day of discovery.
Category D
Items in this category shall be rectified within one hundred and twenty (120) consecutive
calendar days, excluding the day of discovery.
6 Definitions
For the purpose of this MEL the following definitions shall apply:
‘Combustible Material’ is material which is capable of catching fire and burning.
‘Commencement of flight’ the point when an aircraft begins to move under its own power for
the purpose of preparing for take-off.
‘Dash’ (-) in columns 3 and 4 indicates a variable quantity.
‘Day operation’ is any flight conducted from the point of take-off to landing between 30 minutes
before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset.
‘Icing Condition’ the atmospheric environment is such that ice can form on the aircraft or
engine(s).

‘Inoperative’ means that the equipment does not accomplish its intended purpose or is not
consistently functioning within its design operating limits or tolerances. Some systems have been
designed to be fault-tolerant and are monitored by digital computers which transmit fault
messages to a centralised computer for the purpose of maintenance. The presence of this
category of message does not mean that the system is inoperative.
‘Visual Meteorological Conditions’ (VMC) means weather permitting flight in accordance with
the Visual Flight Rules, as defined in the Rules of the Air.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and operators should include in their MELs any definition
which is considered to be relevant.
7 Centralised Message Systems (if appropriate)
The aircraft is equipped with a system (such as ECAM/EICAS) which provides different levels of
systems information messages (Warning, Caution, Advisory, Status, Maintenance etc.). Any
aircraft discrepancy message that affects dispatch will normally be at status message level or
higher. Therefore, system conditions that result only in a Maintenance Message are not normally
addressed in the MEL as they, in themselves, do not prohibit dispatch of the aircraft. However,
maintenance discrepancy messages must be recorded and corrected in accordance with the
approved maintenance programme.
8 Operations outside the Scope of the MEL
In exceptional circumstances, the CAA may exempt operator’s name from compliance with the
MEL on an individual case-by-case basis, provided such exemption complies with the applicable
limitations in the MMEL.
9 Non-standard Operations
Ferry flights are flights carrying neither passengers nor freight, for the purpose of returning the
aircraft to a place where it can be repaired. These flights may be dispatched with less than the
equipment specified in the MEL, provided all the equipment expected to be utilised in flight is
operable and any relevant Sections of the Flight Manual are applied. Permission for such a flight,
however, must be granted by the CAA before the flight takes place.
Other non-standard operations include Demonstration Flights, Test Flights (after maintenance)
and Training Flights. Similar provisions apply to these flights, but the Operations Manual must
include specific guidance on their conduct, and such flights must not take place without general
or specific permission from the CAA.
10. MEL Amendments & Timescales
This MEL will be amended to ensure that it remains no less restrictive than the MMEL upon
which it is based.
When the MMEL or MMEL Supplement is amended to become more restrictive than the MEL,
the MEL will be correspondingly amended as soon as possible, and in any case within 30 days of
receipt of the MMEL or Supplement revision.

The MEL will not necessarily be amended when the MMEL or MMEL Supplement is amended to
be less restrictive. Applicable changes to the MMEL that require amendment of the MEL include;
(a) a reduction of the rectification interval; or
(b) a change of an equipment item, only when the change is applicable to the aircraft or type
of operations and is more restrictive.
The MEL will also be amended as soon as possible, and in any case within 30 days of a
requirement by the CAA to amend the MEL.
In other cases, including those amendments instigated by operator name to reflect changes to
equipment or operations, the MEL will be amended as soon as convenient, and in any case
within 90 days of the change that prompted the amendment.
Changes to other documents, such as the aircraft manufacturer’s (O) and (M) procedures, that
affect the content of the MEL will also be reflected in the MEL within 90 days of receipt of the
relevant revision, except where the amendment is clearly more restrictive than the current
procedures in the MEL. In this case, the procedures will be amended as soon as possible, and in
any case within 30 days of receipt of the amendment.

APPENDIX 2
MEL APPROVAL PROCESS FLOWCHART
Produce MEL or MEL

amendment, based on the
applicable MMEL and this
guide
NO
Does the MEL or MEL amendment include
all of the following?:
 MMEL Status information
 Preamble
 Notes and Definitions
 Guidance for Crews
 (O) and (M) Procedures
 Rectification Intervals
YES
Submit to CAA, by email, copies of the

MEL (or MEL amendment), MMEL and
MEL Approval application form
Operator amends
documentation as
required
Is MEL or MEL
amendment acceptable NO
to the CAA?
1.1
YES
CAT operator or
GA operator
AOC applicant
The CAA will stamp the LEP of

The CAA will issue the
the MEL or amendment to
Approval. An e-mail copy will
signify acceptance and advise
be sent to operator and
the operator/applicant. The
original documents will follow
MEL Approval will be issued
in the post.
with the AOC.
APPENDIX 3
FLOWCHART FOR THE USE OF CAP 03 WHEN PREPARING AN MEL
Is there an
MMEL entry for
a contemplated
MEL item?
NO YES
Is the item
covered in
Does MMEL entry
CAR OPS? include: “As
required by
operating
NO YES Regulations”?
(see Note 4)
No alleviation unless Temporary alleviation NO YES

the equipment is may be possible,
“non safety-related” subject to CAA
(see Note 3) approval Review CAR OPS for
requirement and
inclusion in MEL
Apply MMEL
dispatch
conditions
Note 1: All items related to the airworthiness of the aircraft and not included in the list, are
required to be operative.
Note 2: All other items must be operative unless alleviation is provided in the MMEL or this CAP.
Note 3: Equipment obviously not required for the continued safe operation of the aircraft may not
be listed. Aircraft operators should establish an effective decision-making process for
failures that are not listed to determine if they are related to airworthiness and required
for safe operation.
Note 4: Reference to operating requirements, regardless of the regulatory system quoted, should
be read as those requirements specified in CAR OPS.

APPENDIX 4
[LIST OF CAR OPS 1/3 REQUIREMENTS & GUIDANCE RELATING TO MELs
All CAR OPS 1/3 Operators

Requirement/Guidance Title Summary
Minimum Equipment Lists – Operator to establish MEL.
1 1/3.030
Operator’s Responsibilities
1.085 (f)(11) Commander’s responsibility to
2 Crew Responsibilities
3.085(f)(10) decide on MEL unserviceabilities.
Instruments and equipment to be
3 1/3.290 (b)(4) Flight Preparation operable except as provided for
by MEL.
1.630 (a)(2) Instruments and Equipment – operable for the planned
4
3.630(b)(2) General Introduction operation except as provided for
by MEL.
Communication and
operable for the planned
5 1/3.845 (a)(3) Navigation Equipment -
operation except as provided for
General Introduction
by MEL.
Operations Manual must include
a MEL taking account of the
aircraft types and variants
operated and the type(s)/area(s)
6 App.1 to 1/3.1045, B 9 Operations Manual Contents of operation, including the
navigational equipment and
taking into account the required
navigation performance for the
route and area of operation.
The Quality System must monitor
AMC OPS 1/3.035, 4.6.1
7 Quality System compliance with procedures for
o.
the use of the MEL.
Operator must have a system to
ensure that defects are rectified
8 AMC OPS 1/3.890 (a)(2) Maintenance Responsibility
within the time limits specified in
the MEL.
Operations Manual sections on
AMC OPS 1/3.1040 (b), Elements of the Operations
9 Use of MEL and the MEL itself to
A8.6, B 9 Manual Subject to Approval
be approved by CAA.

LIST OF CAR OPS REQUIREMENTS & GUIDANCE RELATING TO MELs (continued)
Operators Approved in Accordance with CAR 145

Maintenance Management MME to include use of Technical
App.1 to AMC OPS 1.905 (a) Exposition for an Operator Log and application of MEL
1
App.1 to AMC OPS 3.905 (a) who is Approved in procedures.
Accordance with CAR 145
Aeroplane operators also intending to carry out EDTO

Extended Diversion Time Diversion time may be limited by
1 OPS 1.246 (b)
Operations (EDTO) MEL serviceability constraints.
Aeroplane operators also intending to carry out non-EDTO Twin Turbojet Aeroplanes
between 120 and 180 Minutes from an Adequate Aerodrome
Operation of Non-EDTO The MEL should take into account
Approved Twin Turbojet all items specified by the
1 AMC OPS 1.245 (a)(2), 6. Aeroplanes between 120 manufacturer relevant to
and 180 Minutes from an operations in accordance with the
Adequate Aerodrome AMC.
Aeroplane operators intending to conduct IFR operations without ADF

IFR Operations Without ADF The MEL must be amended to take
1 AMC OPS 1.865 (d)(1)(i)
System account of lack of ADF.
Operators also intending to carry out SEIMC operations

OPS 1.526 & AMC OPS 1.526, The MEL must be modified to
4. d. S/E Operations at Night or in address the equipment and
1 systems necessary for operations
OPS 3.541 & AC OPS IMC
3.541,4.h at night and/or in IMC.
]

APPENDIX 5
EXAMPLE OF RECTIFICATION INTERVAL EXTENSION REPORT FORM
(Operator logo & form number)
RECTIFICATION INTERVAL EXTENSION REPORT FORM
Part 1 MEL Defect

1. Operator 2. Date of 3. Aircraft 4. Aircraft Type 5. RIE Number
Defect Registration
6. Detail of Defect
7. Reason for not rectifying
8. Rectification Interval Category 9. Expiry date of 10. MEL Reference

Rectification Interval
Part 2 RIE Application

11. Name of Applicant 12. Position
13. Reason RIE is Required
14. Name of Authorising Engineering Manager 15. Position 16. Date

Part 3 Authorisation
17. Duration of RIE Authorised 18. Latest date the defect is due for rectification
19 Comments of Authorising Manager
20. Name of Authorising Flight Ops Manager 21. Position 22. Date
Note: Form must be sent to the CAA within 10 days of authorisation.

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CIVIL AVIATION PUBLICATION

MINIMUM EQUIPMENT LIST (MEL)

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

MINIMUM EQUIPMENT LIST (MEL)

Section Title Page No.

2. MEL/MMEL and Type Certificate ......................................................................................... 2

3. Preparation of the MEL and the Approval ........................................................................... 3

4. Amendment of MEL ............................................................................................................ 10

CAP 03 Rev 11 ii 01 April 2022

5. Operational Use of the MEL ............................................................................................... 11

Appendix 1 Example MEL Preamble .............................................................................................. APP 1-1

CAP 03 Rev 11 ii 01 April 2022

1.1.1 AOC Applicants

1.1.2 General Aviation Operators

CAP 03 Rev 11 1 01 April 2022

An MEL Approval Process Flowchart is at Appendix 2.

2. MEL/MMEL AND TYPE CERTIFICATE

CAP 03 Rev 11 2 01 April 2022

In order to establish whether or not it is acceptable to dispatch with particular equipment

2.2 Purpose of MEL

(b) Define operational and maintenance procedures necessary to maintain an acceptable

3. PREPARATION OF THE MEL AND THE APPROVAL

3.1 Preparation of MEL

CAP 03 Rev 11 3 01 April 2022

3.1.1 MMEL Acquisition

3.1.2 Operator MEL Development Process

3.1.3 Conformance with the MMEL

3.1.3.1 MEL Content

CAP 03 Rev 11 4 01 April 2022

3.1.3.2 Non-Safety-Related Equipment

Non-safety-related equipment includes those items related to the convenience, comfort, or

3.2 MEL Development Procedures

3.2.1 MEL Format and Content

CAP 03 Rev 11 5 01 April 2022

3.2.2 MEL Basic Format

3.2.3 MEL Page Format

3.2.4 List of Effective Pages

3.2.5 Table of Contents

3.2.6 MEL Preamble

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3.2.7 Notes and Definitions

3.2.8 Operational and Maintenance Procedures

Alternatively, when the procedure is already contained in another document that is

The Type Certificate Holder is required to produce operational and maintenance

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An acceptable entry in the Operational Procedures column would be e.g. “Anti-skid

3.2.9 Rectification Interval Categories

The Rectification Interval Categories are defined as follows:

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3.2.10 Equipment Requirement Specification

3.2.11 Aircraft Configuration

3.2.12 Operational Approvals

3.2.13 Inoperative Exits

3.2.14 Equipment Removal

3.2.15 Electronic MEL

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There are permissible exceptions to some of the above procedures:

(d) Because of difficulties experienced by MEL authors in determining Rectification Intervals

3.4 MEL Approval

4.1 Amendment Timescales