Inoperative instruments and equipment

In plain English

You may fly with some inoperative equipment only under specific conditions — either under an approved Minimum Equipment List (MEL), or, without an MEL, by following the §91.213(d) process: the item isn’t required by the equipment list, the VFR-day instruments, an AD, or the operation, and it is removed/placarded "inoperative" and a determination is made that it’s safe.

Key points

• With an MEL: follow it exactly.
• Without an MEL (small GA): the (d) process — confirm not required, placard "inoperative," and deactivate as needed.
• A mechanic or pilot determines the aircraft is still safe to fly.

Common pitfalls

• Deferring an item that is actually required by 91.205, an AD, or the type design.
• Flying with an unplacarded inop item.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation.*