Citationjet (C525/C526) - CJ I / II / III / IV
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Communication Breakdown; Confusion
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural MEL / CDL; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
General Maintenance Action
Aircraft; Procedure; Manuals; MEL; Incorrect / Not Installed / Unavailable Part; Human Factors; Chart Or Publication
On previous flight; HF antenna was found broken. Maintenance removed the antenna and MEL'd [(deferred)] the HF System inoperative. The next day after much consideration; I felt that to MEL the HF System inoperative; because the antenna was missing; was not the proper MEL. An MEL for the antenna missing or removed would be appropriate and it would also address the fact that the HF Radio was affected; except there is no such MEL or CDL item. Several authorities both inside and outside the company agreed that the MEL was acceptable as written; so I continued to fly the aircraft; however I still feel that the MEL was not appropriate. The MEL addresses only one resulting problem CAUSED by the actual problem; rather than addressing the problem itself. It would be similar to MEL'ing the Window Heat inoperative because the windshield was missing. I would like to see an MEL or CDL addressing a missing or removed antenna (HF or any other) rather than using the MEL for an inoperative radio to cover a missing antenna. Maintenance entered an MEL that I don't consider appropriate. Had discussions with Maintenance personnel; the Flight Duty Officer (FDO); the Union Steward on duty and a Cessna Service Customer Service Representative.
A First Officer reports that an HF antenna; found previously broken on their CJ3 (Cessna 525B) aircraft; had been improperly deferred as HF System radio inoperative instead of antenna being missing. Adding to pilot's concern was the lack of any MEL or CDL language available for a missing antenna.