Private Pilot Flight Training and Instruction Flight Training Article Library | Back To 4VFR.COM MEL Decision Sequence The pilot recognizes inoperative instruments or equipment Question: Is the item required by MEL or kinds of operations list? If "yes" aircraft is unairworthy! If "no" 91.205, 91.213(d)(2)(ii) Is the inoperative item required for this flight? If "yes" aircraft is unairworthy! In "no" 91.213(d)(2)(ii) Is the item required by airworthiness directive (AD)? If "yes" the aircraft is unairworthy If "no" 39, 91.213(d)(2)(iv) Is the item required by FAR 91.107, 91.171, 91.185, 91.205, 91.207, 91.209 etc 91.213(d)(2)(ii) If "yes" the aircraft is unairworthy If "no" The item must be removed or deactivated and placarded inoperative 91.213(a)(3)(i), 91.213(a)(3)(ii) Pilot must determine that the item does not constitute a hazard under the conditions of the flight. Pilot may perform work that comes under preventive maintenance. Item: Under the strictest interpretation of the FARs, it is almost impossible to fly a legal, airworthy aircraft. FAR 91.213 is distinct from FAR 91.205 which just lists what is required for specific operations. 91.213 says you can’t fly with inoperative instruments or equipment. Without an MEL, the alternative is in subsection (d), which requires a placard, plus deactivation or removal. Subsection (d) places total responsibility on the pilot. 1. The pilot must determine hazard potential, if any. 2. Determination may be made by certified mechanics. 3. Owner/operator must confirm if required for selected flight operation. 4. Refer to POH for selected flight operation. 5. If not required, deactivate and placard or remove by certified maintenance person who must make required placard and logbook entries. 6. Inoperative placard must be replaced at each required inspection. Written by Gene Whitt Flight Training Article Library | Back To 4VFR.COM