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Gear Up: Bad Joke?

It’s hard to believe this dent totaled an amazing airplane. Courtesy Dick Karl
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author experienced a sudden and drastic 212% increase in aviation insurance premiums for his single-pilot jet, making continued ownership financially challenging.
  • Despite the author's professional flying background and a detailed appeal highlighting his rigorous safety practices, the best negotiated outcome was a 51% premium increase with a future restriction on single-pilot flying.
  • The article expresses skepticism regarding the justifications provided for the "hardening" aviation insurance market, citing stable general aviation accident rates and disputing the insurers' claimed losses.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Well, yes, I had left my phone on the Virgin Atlantic flight to London. So, yes, I was out of touch for the six days it took me to get it back from “Missing X” somewhere in the ductwork of Heathrow Airport. So, yes, there was a delay in receiving your voicemail.

Dick Karl

Dick Karl is a cancer surgeon who appreciates the beauty and science involved in both surgery and flying. Dick’s monthly Gear Up celebrates the human side of flying. He writes about his enthusiasm for both the machines and the people who fly and maintain them.

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