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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-mel-aircraft-specific

A Part 91 Minimum Equipment List (MEL) is approved for what?

One specific operator and N-numbered aircraft.

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  1. Every airplane of the same make and model
  2. Any aircraft at the same airport
  3. One specific operator and N-numbered aircraft ✔

Why: An MEL lets an aircraft fly with nonessential inoperative equipment. The PHAK says the FAA-approved MEL is issued to that specific operator and N-numbered aircraft. The master list (MMEL) for a make and model is only the starting point.

Huh, didn't know that: An operator gets the master minimum equipment list for their make and model from the local FSDO on written request.

The dad joke
My MEL says the cupholder can be inoperative. Morale cannot.
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References

Answer: One specific operator and N-numbered aircraft. An MEL lets an aircraft fly with nonessential inoperative equipment. The PHAK says the FAA-approved MEL is issued to that specific operator and N-numbered aircraft. The master list (MMEL) for a make and model is only the starting point.

  1. Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge FAA-H-8083-25C, Chapter 9 www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/faa-h-8083-25c.pdf
    the FAA-approved MEL issued to that specific operator and N-numbered aircraft
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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