Most frequently asked Questions re: our Aviation Manuals and Service:
MELs:
Q: What’s the benefit of using an MEL (D195 Ops Spec) over an MMEL (D095 Ops Spec)?
A:
1) The MEL, by it’s very nature, is specific to one aircraft, or many aircraft (in the case of a Fleet MEL). Therefore, there is no guessing or time taken to determine configuration issues, such as if an AD has been complied with, or an STC installed, as well as questions of quantities (such as number of parameters associated with your FDR). This makes the MEL much easier to use.
2) Operations in EASA airspace now require the use of a D195 MEL to meet the European requirements. Some D095 MMELs have been allowed, but SAFA ramp check scrutiny increases greatly. With D095 MELs, the inspector is required to confirm all the elements of a D195 program have been met, save for the aircraft-specific MEL. This often means a very long and detailed audit of the program.
Q: What’s the benefit of using a Fleet MEL for multiple aircraft of the same type?
A: This format allows aircraft to easily be added and removed from a fleet without having to alter and get re-approved the core of the MEL. Only the Differences pages, Table of Contents and Log of Revisions needs to change, hence making the approval process a snap. Your POI, PAI and PMI will love this format as well, as it gets approved once, and unless a mandatory revision to the Master MEL occurs, they will never have to re-address the body of the MEL or O&M procedures.
Q: What does the annual revision service cover?
A: Any updates to the FAA MMEL, or updates to your aircraft configuration (additions or deletions). Changes of registration number (N-number), as well as updates or changes to Federal Order 8900.1, or policy letters that affect your MEL.
Q: What’s specifically is not covered by the annual revision service?
A: Changes of ownership (operator) & changes of format (i.e. going from an aircraft-specific MEL to a fleet MEL)
Q: What’s the usual job flow for an MEL…how long does it take?
A: You will receive an MEL checklist…it is a list of MEL items that are either optional or variable in number…simply put quantity #s in for each item and return. It will take approximately 5-7 days to complete your MEL upon return of the MEL checklist.
Final drafts of the MEL & O&Ms in PDF format will be provided for you to provide your FSDO for approval. We ask you look over quantities installed for each item to ensure they are a correct reflection of your aircraft (sometime answering questions off the worksheet does not give you the context that the MEL might, and you may answer a question differently with that context).
Once you are happy with your document, you may send it to your assigned POI at the FSDO requesting D195 approval. If you prefer to obtain a D095 approval, no FAA review of your document is required. For D195 approvals, the FAA has 60 days to respond to your request for approval. Once approved, a final 5-section PDF will incorporate the authorization sign-offs, and work for all EFBs, computers or IPads.
From this point-forward, it is our job to ensure any changes to the MMEL or its’ string supporting documents will be reflected in an update to your MEL. These updates typically happen every 1-2 years.
Passenger Briefing Cards
Q: How often may I change the details on the card?
A: As often as you like, until you give approval to go to print.
Q: Should I put my company name, N number or contact info on the card?
A: That’s up to you. Some people prefer to leave the card “generic” so that it can be used by other operators, should the aircraft be sold. They look at this as just another selling point that adds value for the new owner.
All documentation (in general):
Q: Am I guaranteed a document that will be approved by my FSDO?
A: Yes. Some small changes may be requested of the document by your POI, PMI or PAI, but we pride ourselves on returning any changes same-day to expedite approval.
Q: Can I get electronic copies that work on IPads and EFBs?
A: Yes. As a matter of fact, if you utilize only electronic format for your aviation manuals, we will be able to discount your MEL, SMS or SOP by $50 to $85 (depending on size).