ACMI agreements, an acronym for Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance, are a form of wet lease in the aviation industry. These agreements are contractual arrangements between two airlines or aviation operators where the lessor provides not only the aircraft but also the complete crew, all maintenance for the aircraft, and insurance cover required for operations. Here are some key aspects of ACMI agreements:
Components of ACMI Agreements
1. Aircraft: The lessor provides the aircraft to the lessee for use in their operations, ensuring that the aircraft is in good condition and meets all regulatory requirements.
2. Crew: The lessor supplies all necessary crew members, including pilots and cabin crew, who are employed by the lessor. The crew remains under the management of the lessor but operates flights on behalf of the lessee.
3. Maintenance: All maintenance responsibilities for the aircraft during the lease term fall under the lessor’s obligations. This includes routine checks, repairs, and necessary inspections to ensure the aircraft remains in an airworthy condition.
4. Insurance: The lessor is responsible for securing and maintaining adequate insurance coverage for the aircraft and operations conducted under the ACMI agreement, covering various risks including liability and hull damage.
• Flexibility and Scalability: ACMI agreements provide lessees with the flexibility to scale their fleet size up or down based on operational demands, such as seasonal fluctuations in passenger numbers or cargo volume.
• Cost Management: Lessees can better manage their costs as the ACMI rate typically includes significant operational expenses. This can be particularly advantageous for start-up airlines or those facing financial constraints.
• Market Expansion and Route Testing: Airlines can explore new markets or test new routes without committing to long-term aircraft purchases or crew training programs.
• Operational Continuity: In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as maintenance issues with owned or dry leased aircraft, ACMI leases offer a quick solution to maintain service continuity.
Considerations
• Cost vs Control: While ACMI leases offer financial and operational flexibility, they also mean less operational control for the lessee, as key components such as crew management and maintenance scheduling are in the hands of the lessor.
• Regulatory Compliance: Both parties must navigate complex international aviation regulations, ensuring that
ACMI leasing offers a mutually beneficial arrangement for both aircraft owners and tenants, providing flexibility, financial efficiency, and the ability to adapt to market demands. However, it requires careful management, clear contractual agreements, and trust between parties to ensure a successful partnership.
Madrid – Europe
Hortaleza 61 st.
28004
New York – USA
2244 St. Jackson Avenue
Long Island
NEW YORK 11101
New York – USA
2244 St.
Jackson Avenue
Long Island
NEW YORK 11101
Madrid – Europe
Hortaleza 61 st. 28004