DADE DADE Aircraft Systems & Airworthiness

Question 1

What is the purpose of the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) in dispatch operations?

Accepted Answer

The FAA-approved document containing aircraft limitations, performance data, and operating procedures that dispatchers must use for release decisions

Answer

A document for passengers describing in-flight procedures

Answer

A maintenance log for engine overhaul intervals

Answer

A crew scheduling reference document

Question 2

What does the term 'aircraft airworthiness' mean in the context of dispatch?

Accepted Answer

The aircraft conforms to its type certificate and is in condition for safe flight, with all required equipment operative or deferred per MEL

Answer

The aircraft has been washed and cleaned to airline standards

Answer

The aircraft fuel tanks are full

Answer

The aircraft has completed its scheduled maintenance cycle

Question 3

What is the function of the Master Minimum Equipment List (MMEL)?

Accepted Answer

The FAA-approved basis document from which each carrier's MEL is developed, defining which items may be inoperative under specified conditions

Answer

A list of required emergency equipment for each flight

Answer

A checklist for pre-departure maintenance inspections

Answer

A catalog of spare parts required at each maintenance base

Question 4

Under what condition may a carrier dispatch an aircraft with an inoperative item NOT listed in its MEL?

Accepted Answer

Never — items not listed in the MEL must be operative before dispatch

Answer

If the captain approves the departure

Answer

If the dispatcher determines the item is non-essential

Answer

If the aircraft is on a repositioning flight with no passengers

Question 5

What does 'deferred maintenance' mean for a dispatcher releasing a flight?

Accepted Answer

A documented inoperative item deferred per MEL with a specific repair interval — the dispatcher must verify the deferral is within its allowable interval

Answer

Maintenance that will never need to be performed

Answer

Any maintenance performed after the aircraft lands

Answer

Maintenance scheduled for the next heavy check

Question 6

What is the significance of a 'ferry permit' (special flight permit) for a dispatcher?

Accepted Answer

FAA authorization to fly an aircraft that does not meet airworthiness requirements to a maintenance facility for repairs

Answer

Authorization for faster-than-normal cruise speeds

Answer

Permission to fly without an alternate airport

Answer

Authorization to carry extra fuel above maximum zero fuel weight