Ultimate Issue: Staying Insured Encompasses Training, Loyalty, and Downsizing

Some guidance from those who approve the aircraft policies and pay the claims.

Friday, July 26, 2024 at 08:55 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Before making a deal on any turbine aircraft, have a real talk with your insurance broker on the realities of getting the coverage you need, training requirements, and the ability to stay insured as you age. [Courtesy: Textron Aviation]

Key Takeaways:

Pilots can navigate a hardened aircraft insurance market by prioritizing consistent, quality flight training, fostering long-term loyalty with an insurer, and being realistic about aircraft choices, often involving downsizing to simpler models for older or less experienced pilots.
Insurability is significantly impacted by pilot age, experience in type, and aircraft characteristics (e.g., value, maintainability, risk of complex types like turbines or tailwheels), necessitating strong proof of aircraft upgrades and meticulous maintenance records to secure coverage.

See a mistake? Contact us.

There are three key elements for surviving a hardened aircraft insurance market—training, loyalty, and downsizing.

It’s no secret that pilots of complex and high-end aircraft have been dealing with the trend of higher rates and even non renewed policies, especially older pilots and those with limited experience in type. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to sunset your flying career once you reach 70—the point in life where underwriters consider you a “senior” pilot. Moreover, with a savvy approach, some compromises and hard training requirements, insurance can be available for younger and green pilots stepping into tailwheels and turbines.