What process does the Minimum Equipment List influence?

The Minimum Equipment List (MEL) directly influences maintenance operations and safety checks because it defines the items and equipment that must be operational for an aircraft to be deemed airworthy. The MEL outlines a specific list of equipment that, if inoperative, allows the aircraft to still operate under certain conditions, while ensuring safety protocols are maintained. This guidance helps maintenance crews and safety inspectors make informed decisions about the operational status of the aircraft, focusing on what repairs or checks must be prioritized before a flight can take place. By facilitating structured maintenance procedures, the MEL ensures that critical safety standards are upheld even when some equipment is not fully functional, thereby allowing for continued operations under safe conditions.