10 February 2023:

As the leaders in global aircraft and private jet charterings, long term aircraft leasing is an integral part of what we do here at Smart Aviation. Long term leasing is an airline to airline business arrangement, brokered by our skilled specialists here at Smart HQ, which involves one airline leasing (be it a WET or DAMP conditions) an aircraft from another for an extended period of time, be it for seasonal capacity or delayed delivery of new planes.

Towards the end of each year, we always see a big surge in requests from our clients requesting to support them with this type of agreement. It’s not an easy process, there are a lot of key components to work through, particularly at the moment as many airlines are currently feeling the impact of delayed delivery of their new aircrafts.

As we’re in the midst of finalising some of our long term leasing agreements for this year, we thought it would be beneficial to share our expertise on the process. So, here’s the Smart Guide to Long Term Leasing:

Start planning early:

Most of our long term lease clients start planning their operations for the upcoming year from around October. The leases usually commence for the summer season in April/May and run until October. Dan Parker, Head of Airline Leasing and Flight Operations at Smart Aviation, and the team begin talking to all our key suppliers in August/September to gain an indication of what aircrafts they have available for leasing the next season. The team then personally contacts all our clients to present the options available and to aid them with their planning. 

Be exact with your requirements from the beginning:

We pride ourselves on offering the highest level of service to both our clients and our suppliers. A good broker will always put both the supplier and client first and will ensure that both parties are always satisfied and are involved in valuable negotiations. Smart remains intertwined throughout the lease, always offering personal support. During this negotiation stage it is vital to be realistic and clearly set out all parties’ expectations. 

Visit the aircraft and meet the team beforehand:

The Smart Team regularly visits all of our suppliers, and our clients too. Visiting the aircraft you are looking to lease  prior to the commencement start date, reduces any potential issues that could be solved prior to operations. Smart Aviation always ensures long term leasing clients meet with the supplier and have a comprehensive showaround the aircraft and airline for themselves. 

Synergy is key:

We like to make working relationships as seamless as possible, and we keep an eye on all activity throughout the lease period. If there is any lapse in communication between the supplier and the client, it is essential it is rectified immediately. We like to ensure synergy between everyone involved, from operations personnel to the finance departments. Through this synergy, touches like the supplier adding client branding onto the aircraft, reassures customers that the same level of client service is offered. We make sure that the client is incorporated into the supplier’s product, and vice versa.

Be patient: 

The long term leasing process is lengthy and can be frustrating but trust your Smart leasing consultant who will guide you through any issues or questions you may have. We are here 24/7 throughout the lease agreement for both sides and will swiftly address any questions or concerns. 

Daniel Parker, Head of Airline Leasing and Flight Operations at Smart Aviation, said: “Communication in long term leasing is vital, as is always being transparent with both parties. I enjoy long term leasing as you get so much fulfillment from being pivotal in such a big partnership. Things don’t happen quickly with long term leasing as there are many integral parts. Patience really is the key but it is always worth it”. 

For any long term leasing requests, please call or email us today – acmi@smart-aviation.co.uk/ + 44 1293 551244

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