Does Transport Canada Accept FAA LOA D095 for U.S.-Registered Aircraft Operating in Canada?

Operators conducting cross-border flights frequently encounter questions regarding which authority governs Minimum Equipment List (MEL) approval when operating outside the aircraft’s State of Registry. A common question is whether foreign civil aviation authorities require additional MEL acceptance beyond approvals already issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

To address this question directly, Sky Safety Solutions submitted a formal inquiry to Transport Canada seeking written clarification on the acceptance of FAA-issued Letter of Authorization (LOA) D095 for U.S.-registered aircraft operating in Canadian airspace.

This article summarizes Transport Canada’s official written response and outlines what that clarification confirms.

The Question Submitted to Transport Canada

The inquiry focused on U.S.-registered aircraft conducting operations in Canada and asked whether Transport Canada accepts FAA-issued LOA D095 MMEL authorization, or whether Canada requires a tail-specific LOA D195, as is required by most ICAO States.

Transport Canada’s Written Response

Transport Canada confirmed that it does not impose additional MEL approval requirements for U.S.-registered aircraft operating in Canada beyond those already approved by the FAA.

Specifically, Transport Canada indicated that FAA-issued LOA D095 authorization is accepted for U.S.-registered aircraft operating in Canadian airspace.

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What This Clarification Confirms

Transport Canada’s written response confirms the following:

• Transport Canada does not require additional MEL approval for U.S.-registered aircraft operating in Canada
  
• FAA-issued LOA D095 MMEL authorization is accepted by Transport Canada
  
• MEL responsibility remains with the aircraft’s State of Registry
  
• Operators should continue to comply with applicable FAA regulations
  
  

Important limitation:
While MEL authority is determined by the aircraft’s State of Registry, most ICAO States do not accept D095 MMEL authorization and instead require a tail-specific LOA D195. Transport Canada’s acceptance of D095 is specific to Canada and should not be assumed to apply in other ICAO States.

When Operators Should Seek MEL Support

If you have questions about MEL authority, cross-border operations, or how FAA approvals apply in international airspace, Sky Safety Solutions can help. Our team works directly with operators to develop, review, and maintain FAA-compliant MELs and supporting documentation to ensure inspection-ready operations. Learn more about our MEL services.