Glossary
MEL (Minimum Equipment List)
Definition
A document that permits an aircraft to be operated with certain equipment inoperative, under specific conditions. Not available to Part 91 operators (they use the KOEL — Kinds of Operations Equipment List — or FAR 91.213).
Why It Matters
In practice, most training aircraft don't have an approved MEL. If something is broken, it's either a no-go item (per the type certificate or 91.213) or it can be deferred. Understanding what's deferrable affects whether a squawk grounds the aircraft.