You are required to at least have access to your MEL. I’m attaching a section from the SAFA Inspector’s guidance material for any European inspection that might come up. This mostly reflects ICAO Annex 6 guidance.
Check if the MEL is available.
Note: If it is found that the MEL does not incorporate the latest revision of the MMEL this should be reported as a General Remark (cat. G).
Note: An increasing number of operators do not have the MEL on board, but available via a data downlink. This should be considered as an acceptable alternative.
Check if the MEL is not less restrictive than MMEL.
Check if MEL content reflects actual equipment installed on the aircraft. Check if the MEL contains the (M) maintenance and/or (O) operational procedures
Check if the MEL is fully customised. For example, the MEL should not contain a reference to regulatory material (“ATA 23 Communication systems – Any in excess of those required by 14 CFR may be inoperative provided it is not powered by Standby Bus and is not required for emergency procedures.”) but should mention the actual required number.
Check if the deferred defects (if any) are in accordance with the MEL instructions.
Note: Annex 6 does require that the MEL is approved by the Sate of Operator.
