Originally Posted by bigbob
MEL says:
When one reverser inop select REV on BOTH thrust reversers
When Both reversers inop DO NOT select thrust reversers
This does not seem to be the proper quote from the MEL ... (?)
At least one thrust reverser is required for dispatch.
The airplane can be dispatched with one inop T/R as long as the Maintenance procedure has been applied. The proper deactivation of a T/R implies that this one is secured in the stowed position and the engine won't accelerate to idle rev even if that T/R is selected.
Now, if the airplane is dispatched with one deactivated T/R, and the second T/R becomes inop in flight, that second engine would still accelerate to idle rev upon application, therefore it is not recommended to select it.
The same applies if the airplane is dispatched with both T/R operative, but one or even both become inop during flight, it won't be recommended to select the defective T/R(s).
I think it's all getting a bit more confusing and an event like
Congonhas will happen again ...