What Is Configuration Deviation List in Aviation?
Configuration Deviation List defined for aviation professionals, with its operational or commercial use, document context and related terminology.
How the Term Is Used in Aviation
A Configuration Deviation List, or CDL, defines approved operation with certain external parts or configuration items missing, subject to limitations and performance penalties.
Aviation Glossary
Term: Configuration Deviation List
Category: Airline Operations & Navigation
How It Is Used in Flight Operations
Configuration Deviation List is used within dispatch, flight planning, crew procedures, aircraft approvals or air traffic operations depending on the subject. Operators must apply the version and approval basis recognized by the relevant aviation authority.
Operational Effect
Unlike an MEL, which addresses inoperative equipment, a CDL generally deals with parts that are physically absent from the aircraft.
Approval and Dispatch Considerations
Equipment capability alone may not be sufficient. Operator approval, crew qualification, maintenance status, database currency, route authorization and company procedures can all affect whether the capability may be used on a specific flight.
Related Aviation Topics
Related ACMI World coverage includes structuring an ACMI RFP, ACMI lease pricing, benefits of ACMI leasing, international charter compliance and wet lease versus dry lease.
Unlike an MEL, which addresses inoperative equipment, a CDL generally deals with parts that are physically absent from the aircraft.
Configuration Deviation List FAQ
What does Configuration Deviation List mean in aviation?
A Configuration Deviation List, or CDL, defines approved operation with certain external parts or configuration items missing, subject to limitations and performance penalties.
Why does Configuration Deviation List matter?
Unlike an MEL, which addresses inoperative equipment, a CDL generally deals with parts that are physically absent from the aircraft.
Where would an aviation professional encounter Configuration Deviation List?
It is commonly encountered in airline operations & navigation documents, procedures, calculations or operating discussions where the underlying technical or commercial issue is relevant.
Does installed equipment automatically authorize the operation?
No. Many capabilities also require operator approval, current maintenance status, crew qualification and procedures accepted by the relevant authority.