I don't agree. If there is a defect and it is not listed in the MEL, the aircraft cannot be dispatched. If it IS in the MEL, it is still at the pilots discretion to NOT accept the aircraft
Wizofoz, quite correct I think. I would never dispatch at discretion on a non-MEL item.
What rubbish, and if you don't believe me have a look at the UK CAA safety website!
If you can't find it, here is an extract -
The MEL does not include items such as wings, engines and landing gear that are always required, nor is reference made to equipment such as passenger convenience and entertainment items which when inoperative obviously do not affect airworthiness. It is important to note therefore that ANY ITEM WHICH IS RELATED TO THE AIRWORTHINESS OF THE AIRCRAFT AND WHICH IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE MEL IS ALWAYS REQUIRED TO BE OPERATIVE BEFORE A FLIGHT IS DISPATCHED. Likewise items required which are by Air Navigation Legislation. Additional Certification Requirements as appropriate, which are not listed, must be operative.
The important statement from the UK CAA there is
ANY ITEM WHICH IS RELATED TO THE AIRWORTHINESS OF THE AIRCRAFT AND WHICH IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE MEL IS ALWAYS REQUIRED TO BE OPERATIVE BEFORE A FLIGHT IS DISPATCHED
quite sensible, conversly the staement also means that if it's not in the MEL and IT does NOT affect The Airworthiness of the Aircraft thwn it is not required to be in the MEL. Therefore it is quite acceptable to defer the frayed carpet....etc.
