Generated Minimum Equipment List (GMEL)
The Generated Minimum Equipment List (GMEL) system is capable of producing a Minimum Equipment List (MEL) at a fraction of the cost and time that would be incurred by an average aircraft operator attempting to produce their own MEL.
The following information provides a background on the GMEL project and the GMEL system.
What is a Minimum Equipment List (MEL)?
An MEL is a document approved by CASA that contains the conditions under which a specified aircraft may operate, with particular items of equipment inoperative, at the time of dispatch. It provides a time interval for the rectification of the faulty item, relevant to the operational significance of the item. This document is carried on board the aircraft and provides the Pilot In Command with clear guidance to make an informed decision as to whether the particular flight should or should not proceed.
Regulatory Basis for requiring a MEL
CAR 37(1), 37(2)
CAR 37(1) states that CASA may approve a defect in, or damage to, an Australian aircraft as a Permissible Unserviceability. Under CAR 37(2), CASA may direct that the use of an aircraft with a Permissible Unserviceability is subject to conditions as set out in the direction.
CAO 20.18
CAO 20.18 requires all instruments and equipment fitted to RPT or charter aircraft to be serviceable unless otherwise approved by CASA. An approved MEL/PU satisfies this requirement. CAO 20.18 also directs an operator of RPT aircraft to have an approved MEL for each aircraft operated and included this list in the operations manual.
CAR 42L
CAR 42L requires that if permissible unserviceabilities have been approved for an aircraft in the form of an MEL, the MEL must be included in the system of maintenance for the aircraft.
The following link is provided to give you access to the Civil Aviation Regulations (1988) to verify the references above, if required.
Civil Aviation Regulations (1988)
Who first created GMEL and why did CASA get involved?
Transport Canada developed and introduced the GMEL System in June 2000. It has proven to be effective in providing an efficient alternative to the conventional method of preparing and approving the MEL document.
CASA has recognised the significant benefits of this system and has entered into an agreement with Transport Canada for the adaptation of this system to suit the Australian aviation industry.
GMEL History in Australia
GMEL was implemented into Australia with the commencement of the GMEL Project in July 2005. This project adapted the GMEL system for use in Australia, including carrying out trials and developing an operator training package on MEL’s. As of October 2006, the CASA Service Centre will be the first point of contact for GMEL.
What is the GMEL System?
The GMEL System utilises a centralised software package to generate an aircraft type specific Operator Minimum Equipment List (OMEL). This takes into account specific information about an Operator, the operators aircraft type and model and the specific equipment configuration of the aircraft fleet. The GMEL system will allow operators to purchase a pre-approved GMEL for conversion to an approved OMEL for aircraft types available through the GMEL system. The aircraft available through GMEL have been through a review board process.
The approved OMEL will be issued by CASA, subject to the operators review and acceptance of its relevance, and a commitment to abide by its conditions and procedures
What information is contained in the GMEL Software?
The GMEL software contains the relevant data for a number of specific aircraft types and models, along with operator information. By relevant data we mean:
- the MMEL (Master Minimum Equipment List) requirements as approved by the appropriate regulatory body,
- all the Australian regulatory requirements,
- the optional equipment information
- the Operating (O) and Maintenance (M) procedures formulated by the review boards.
- the Operator name, contact details and aircraft fleet configuration.
What is a Review Board?
When a new Aircraft Type is added to the GMEL system, a review board is formed. The makeup of the Review Board typically consists of five or more members, three from CASA and two from the industry. (Two Pilots, two Airworthiness Engineers and one Chairperson) The members will meet in person to construct the (O) and (M) procedures for a specific type of aircraft. These procedures are formulated from technical data, including the MMEL, manufacturers and regulatory requirements. Once complete, these procedures are included into the GMEL software.
The Review Board Members will continue to be a part of the GMEL process and may be consulted when major technical or regulatory changes occur, which affect the aircraft types on the system.
GMEL Process Overview diagram
The diagram below shows the flow of information through the GMEL software.
What are the benefits for an operator utilising GMEL?
GMEL assists the operator to comply with their MEL obligations under legislation in an efficient manner. This is done through a holistic approach including the following:
- Access to a pre-approved MEL document, thus reducing the time frame for preparation and approval.
- The provision and assessment of an ongoing amendment service to incorporate changes to the MMEL, manufacturers and regulatory requirements.
- The provision of an Operator training package to educate staff in the purpose and use of an MEL.
- Safety gains through use of a well prepared, consistent, technically correct and regularly updated MEL.