What operational freedom does a wet lease provide to a lessee?

The correct answer highlights an essential feature of a wet lease, which is the operational capability it provides the lessee regarding the use of the aircraft. A wet lease typically includes the provision of both the aircraft and the crew, which can be beneficial for lessees aiming to operate in areas with specific regulatory or operational restrictions.

In the case of flying into restricted territories, a wet lease can sometimes allow airlines to circumvent certain regulations by utilizing a lessor that has the necessary permissions or qualifications to operate in those regions. This can enhance flexibility in flight operations, allowing the lessee to serve markets or destinations that they might not otherwise be able to access directly.

The other options do not accurately characterize the nature of a wet lease. For instance, while a wet lease provides certain operational capabilities, it does not grant complete independence from external regulations or allow unrestricted access to all territories. Additionally, while the lessee has some control over operational decisions, the aircraft and crew are typically provided by the lessor, limiting the scope of control. Lastly, a wet lease does not inherently reduce responsibility for aircraft maintenance, as maintenance obligations are often specified in the leasing contract and remain significant.