Who is responsible for approving a Minimum Equipment List (MEL)?

The correct answer is that the responsibility for approving a Minimum Equipment List (MEL) lies with the minister, typically the aviation regulatory authority in a region or country. The MEL is a critical document that specifies which aircraft systems or components may be inoperative while still allowing the aircraft to be operated safely.

The reason the minister or regulatory authority is responsible for this approval is tied to safety and compliance with aviation regulations. They ensure that the MEL adheres to standard operating procedures and maintains the safety of operations under specified conditions. The approval process usually involves a review to confirm that the MEL aligns with federal regulations and safety guidelines, thus providing a framework for operators to manage equipment malfunctions while still maintaining an acceptable level of safety.

Other roles, such as the aircraft manufacturer or operations manager, may contribute to the development of the MEL or support its implementation and operations, but the final authority for approval rests with the regulatory body. This centralized oversight is important to maintain uniformity and safety standards across the aviation industry.