What is the purpose of a Configuration Deviation List (CDL) in flight operations?

• A. Determines gate allocation.
• B. Specifies standard crew rest periods.
• C. Covers approved configurations for abnormal conditions.
• D. Sets minimum fuel requirements.

Answer: (C)

The purpose of a Configuration Deviation List is to define which airplane configurations are permitted when equipment is inoperative or the aircraft is operating under abnormal conditions, so crews can dispatch and fly safely within predefined limits. It provides the approved configurations and any accompanying restrictions (such as speed, altitude, or handling limits) that keep performance and safety within acceptable margins even when parts of the system aren’t functioning as normal. This is why the statement describing it as covering approved configurations for abnormal conditions is the best fit. The other options relate to different aspects of operations (gate planning, crew rest, or fuel planning) and do not describe the function of a CDL.