Who must approve the Minimum Equipment List (MEL) for an aircraft?

The Minimum Equipment List (MEL) for an aircraft must be approved by the minister, specifically the Minister of Transport or a delegate appointed by them. This is because the MEL is part of the regulatory framework that ensures safety and compliance with aviation regulations. The process of developing an MEL involves a thorough examination of the aircraft's systems and how certain inoperative equipment impacts the safe operation of the aircraft.

Approval from the minister indicates that the MEL has been evaluated against the necessary safety standards and operational guidelines. It ensures that any equipment that can be inoperable without compromising safety has been officially recognized and documented, allowing pilots and operators to follow approved procedures for flight under those conditions.

Other options, while critical to aircraft maintenance and operation, do not hold the authority required for MEL approval. The pilot-in-command plays a crucial role in managing the aircraft but must operate within the framework established by the approved MEL. A certified mechanic is essential for the maintenance and servicing of the aircraft, ensuring that it is in a condition for safe operation, but they do not have the authority to approve the MEL. The aircraft manufacturer does contribute input regarding equipment and operational limits, but final approval for the MEL rests with regulatory authorities to maintain consistent safety standards across the aviation industry.