major repair (aircraft maintenance). 14 CFR Part 1: “A repair:
(1) That, if improperly done, might appreciably affect the weight, balance, structural strength, performance, powerplant operation, flight characteristics, or other qualities affecting airworthiness; or
(2) That is not done according to accepted practices or cannot be done by elementary operations.”
make-before-break switch (electrical switch). A type of two-pole switch that, when switching from one circuit to another, makes contact with the second circuit before it breaks contact with the first.
“Make short approach” (air traffic control). A phrase used by ATC to inform a pilot to alter his traffic pattern so as to make a short final approach.
male connector (electrical connector). The half of an electrical connector that contains pin-type contacts that complete circuits by sliding into sockets (female connectors).
malfunction. The improper operation of a component or system.
Malfunction and Defect Report (M & D Report). A small postcard-like form used by repair stations, maintenance shops, and technicians to report to the FAA a defect or unacceptable condition discovered in an FAA-certificated component. Information gathered on M & D reports allows the FAA to identify and track weaknesses in certificated products that could create a safety problem. M & D reports provide the basis for the General Airworthiness Alerts and subsequent Airworthiness Directives.
malleability. The ability of a material to be stretched or shaped by rolling or hammering it. Malleable materials do not crack when they are formed in this way.
Gold and lead have a high degree of malleability. Both can be shaped into almost any desired form by hammering or beating them.