Aircraft Lease Types and Options Explained: ACMI, Full Wet, Dry and Damp

Aircraft leasing is a major part of the aviation industry. It gives airlines, operators and logistics companies a chance to scale quickly without full aircraft ownership. This way, leasing offers flexibility to manage demand and expand routes. It is helpful for both new and established operators.

There are different types of aircraft lease arrangements to choose from. Each comes with its own structure, responsibilities and use cases. This guide explains the most common types of aircraft lease agreements and how to choose the right one.

We will be covering:

• ACMI Lease
• Full Wet Lease
• Dry Lease
• Damp Lease

What Is an ACMI Lease?

This is your guide to know what is ACMI leasing. The term ACMI basically stands for Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance. It is one of the most widely used short-term lease formats in aviation.

In an ACMI lease:

• Aircraft: The lessor provides the aircraft ready for service.
• Crew: Flight crew and often cabin crew are included.
• Maintenance: All maintenance is handled by the lessor.
• Insurance: The aircraft is fully insured by the lessor.

The lessee is responsible for:

• Fuel
• Ground handling
• Airport charges
• Navigation fees
• Crew accommodation
• Overflight permits

This structure is ideal for:

• Start-up airlines that need immediate lift
• Operators facing Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations
• Seasonal spikes in passenger or cargo demand
• Governments or NGOs running humanitarian or relief operations

What Is a Full Wet Lease?

A full wet lease is an extended version of ACMI. It includes additional operational services that reduce the burden on the lessee even further.

In a full wet lease:

• Cabin Crew: Full-service onboard staff is included
• Operational Control: Lessor may oversee key flight ops
• Ground Handling: The lessor often arranges these services
• Catering: Meals and logistics are part of the deal

It is a turnkey option where the operator does not need their own AOC. It is ideal for:

• VIP or diplomatic missions needing high-touch service
• Short-term charter programs
• Emergency or relief efforts where control must be centralised

What Is a Dry Lease?

Dry leases are used for long-term operations. Only the aircraft is provided. The lessee handles everything else.

In a dry lease:

• Crew: The lessee hires its own pilots and cabin crew
• Maintenance: Full responsibility lies with the lessee
• Insurance: The lessee arranges coverage
• Regulatory: The aircraft is operated under the lessee’s AOC

This type of lease lasts for two or more years. It suits:

• Airlines with a functioning AOC and infrastructure
• Carriers looking to expand their fleet in phases
• Operators with clear long-term route and asset plans

Dry lease aircraft deals offer cost control but come with full operational responsibility.

What Is a Damp Lease?

A damp lease is a hybrid lease type. It shares elements from both wet and dry structures.

In a damp lease:

• Aircraft: Provided by the lessor
• Cockpit Crew: Included
• Cabin Crew: Supplied by the lessee
• Maintenance and Insurance: May be shared or specified in the contract

Damp leases are useful when:

• The operator has trained cabin crew but lacks cockpit staff
• Airlines want partial control but need some operational support

It is one of the more flexible types of aircraft lease options available today.

Lease Type Summary Table

Why Work with Air Charter International?

Whether you’re covering seasonal peaks, replacing grounded aircraft, or launching new operations, choosing the right lease structure is critical.

Air Charter International has 30+ years of industry experience. We deliver aircraft leasing solutions as per your needs. The air charter services connect you to the global market with local insight and personalised support.

• Understanding Your Goals

We understand your network plan, delivery timeline and fleet profile. It helps us recommend appropriate lease models. The right one supports your goals without overcommitting resources.

• Tailored Lease Structures

We help structure lease agreements that are commercially sound and practical to manage. It consists of clear terms around delivery, return conditions and payment cycles that fit you.

• Full Lifecycle Support

Our team stays involved beyond the initial agreement. We help you from pre-delivery inspections to compliance reviews and mid-lease adjustments. This way, you can stay on track.

• Alternative Arrangements

Some operators need full control. Others need support. If a dry lease is not suitable, we help you explore ACMI leasing, full wet arrangements or empty leg flights until you are ready to scale.

According to Your Mission, Choose the Appropriate Lease 

Aircraft leasing is not a single fixed model. Each type serves a different operational need. When you understand the types of aircraft lease, you can choose smarter, reduce overheads and stay agile. Whether the goal is to expand, replace older aircraft or test new markets, the lease structure makes a big difference.

Work with Air Charter International to explore the available types of aircraft lease in the market. Our expertise can help you make an informed decision with confidence.

Let’s Talk Aircraft Leasing

Whether you need aircraft for cargo, passenger or medevac operations, ACI delivers the right solution. This goes from urgent ACMI placements to long-term dry lease planning. We help you find the right aircraft solution, on time and on terms that work. Reach out today.

FAQ: Aircraft Lease Types

• Which lease is best for a new airline? 

An ACMI lease is the easiest way for a start-up to begin flying. It does not require an AOC or operational setup. You can focus on brand building. The lessor can handle the operations.

• How is a full wet lease different from ACMI?

A full wet lease includes everything in ACMI but also adds logistics, catering and more control. It is suited for VIP or sensitive missions, which require full service.

• How fast can a lease start?

With pre-cleared aircraft, we can launch ACMI or full wet operations in as little as 48 to 72 hours. Dry leases take longer. This is due to documentation and AOC requirements.

• Can I change lease types later?

Yes. Operators often begin with ACMI and move to dry once they build in-house teams. We make this transition seamless.

• What lease term should I expect?

ACMI and Wet leases can last a few months. Dry leases are typically for 12 months or more.