When it comes to insuring your aircraft, one of the most important decisions you’ll make isn’t which company underwrites your policy, it’s which broker represents you.
An experienced airplane insurance broker doesn’t just find you a policy; they act as your advocate, your advisor, and your first line of defense when something goes wrong.
Since 1977, BWI Aviation Insurance has been one of America’s leading aviation brokers, helping more than 10,000 aircraft owners and pilots nationwide. With nearly 50 years of aviation-only experience and 800+ five-star reviews, BWI understands every side of the industry, from underwriter negotiations to claims advocacy, to ensure pilots get the protection and service they deserve.
This guide explains what an airplane insurance broker does, how they differ from insurance companies, and how choosing the right one can save you time, money, and stress.
What Is an Airplane Insurance Broker?
An airplane insurance broker is a licensed intermediary who works on your behalf to secure coverage from aviation insurance companies.
Think of your broker as your personal agent in the aviation insurance marketplace, connecting you to multiple carriers, comparing coverage options, and negotiating rates and terms that fit your unique needs.
Unlike direct insurance companies (which sell only their own policies), brokers represent you, not the insurer.
The Broker’s Role
A professional aviation broker handles every step of your policy, including:
1. Assessing your aircraft, usage, and risk profile.
2. Submitting your information to multiple underwriters.
3. Comparing rates and policy terms from different insurance companies.
4. Explaining coverage options in plain language.
5. Issuing certificates and documentation.
6. Handling renewals, endorsements, and policy changes.
7. Assisting with claims. advocating for you throughout the process.
At BWI, our brokers are more than policy writers, they’re advisors who understand the aircraft, the regulations, and the realities of owning and operating in today’s aviation environment.
How Brokers Differ From Insurance Companies
Many aircraft owners assume they’re buying insurance directly from “the company.” In most cases, you’re actually working through a broker who connects you to the underwriter.
Here’s the difference:
Function | Insurance Company (Underwriter) | Aviation Insurance Broker
———|———————————-|—————————
Provides the policy | Yes | No
Sets rates and terms | Yes | No
Shops the market | No | Yes
Advises and explains options | Limited | Comprehensive
Advocates during claims | Limited | Yes
Works for the customer | Works for insurer | Works for you
An underwriter provides the insurance; a broker ensures you get the best version of it.
Why You Should Use a Specialized Aviation Broker
Aviation insurance isn’t like auto or homeowners insurance, it’s a niche industry with only a few dozen underwriters nationwide and complex requirements that depend on pilot experience, aircraft type, and intended use.
That’s why general insurance agents, even those with commercial licenses, rarely have the depth of aviation knowledge required to get the right coverage.
Aviation Insurance Requires Specialized Expertise
– Pilot requirements: Understanding recency, ratings, and time-in-type.
– Aircraft complexity: From piston singles to turbine twins and jets.
– Regulatory categories: Part 91, 135, 141, or experimental.
– Coverage design: Balancing hull, liability, and smooth limits.
– Claims coordination: Managing adjusters, repair shops, and underwriters.
Aviation is its own language — and at BWI, it’s the only one we speak.
The BWI Difference
For nearly five decades, BWI Aviation Insurance has built its reputation on one thing: helping aircraft owners get the best protection at the best possible rate — fast.
Why aircraft owners choose BWI:
– 47+ years of aviation-only experience.
– Access to every major underwriter in the U.S.
– Dedicated account managers — no call centers.
– Same-day quotes for most piston aircraft.
– Fast, fair claims coordination.
– 800+ verified five-star reviews.
“BWI is fast, knowledgeable, and always on my side.” Beechcraft Bonanza Owner, Florida
“They don’t just quote, they explain. I understand exactly what I’m paying for.” Cirrus SR22 Pilot, Texas
How BWI Brokers Work for You
1. We Shop the Entire Aviation Market
BWI works with every major aviation underwriter, including:
– Global Aerospace
– Old Republic Aerospace
– Starr Aviation
– USAIG
– AIG Aerospace
– Phoenix Aviation Managers
This allows us to compare real-time quotes and ensure you get the most competitive premium available, often saving customers hundreds or thousands per year.
2. We Simplify Complex Coverage
Aviation policies can be confusing, hull, liability, smooth limits, sub-limits, and more.
Our brokers explain your options in plain language and ensure you understand:
– What’s covered and what’s not
– How much protection you really need
– Which pilot requirements or training may apply
– How deductibles affect your premium
We make complex insurance simple and transparent.
3. We Act as Your Advocate
If an incident occurs, your broker is your first call, not the underwriter’s 1-800 line.
At BWI, we help clients:
– File and document claims.
– Communicate directly with adjusters.
– Coordinate repairs with approved facilities.
– Track claim progress and expedite settlements.
Our job is to make sure you’re treated fairly and get back in the air quickly.
Benefits of Using an Aviation Broker
1. Access to Multiple Carriers: Brokers compare policies from all leading underwriters, something direct carriers can’t do.
2. Tailored Coverage: Aviation-only brokers understand how to match policies to your exact aircraft and usage.
3. Time Savings: One application gets you quotes from multiple companies.
4. Better Rates: Brokers can leverage relationships to negotiate better terms.
5. Expert Support: From pilot requirements to claims, brokers handle the details.
6. Long-Term Partnership: A good broker manages your renewals and updates annually to ensure continued protection.
When to Work With a Broker
You should always use an aviation broker when:
– You’re buying or selling an aircraft.
– You’re changing your flying habits (e.g., adding business use).
– You’re upgrading or downgrading aircraft models.
– You’re adding pilots or family members.
– You’re renewing a policy and want to compare options.
Even small changes in your pilot experience, hours, or training can affect your rates, a good broker ensures you don’t overpay or leave gaps.
How to Choose the Best Airplane Insurance Broker
Here’s what to look for when evaluating brokers:
– Aviation-only focus: Avoid general insurance agents.
– Reputation: Look for real reviews and testimonials.
– Speed: Response time matters — you need quotes fast.
– Transparency: The broker should explain, not sell.
– Service after sale: Claims support and renewals should be smooth.
BWI checks every box — and has done so for nearly half a century.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aviation Brokers
Q: Can I get cheaper insurance by going direct to the carrier?
A: No, underwriters charge the same base rate whether you buy through a broker or directly. The difference is that brokers can shop multiple carriers and find the best one for your situation.
Q: Do brokers get paid by commission?
A: Yes, but only from the underwriter. You don’t pay extra, and your cost is the same or lower because of the broker’s market access.
Q: What happens if I need to file a claim?
A: Your broker helps manage the claim from start to finish, ensuring the underwriter pays promptly and fairly.
Q: Are all aviation brokers the same?
A: No. Some agencies handle hundreds of general insurance types. BWI specializes in aviation only, meaning every employee speaks your language.
BWI by the Numbers
– 10,000+ aircraft owners insured nationwide
– Nearly 50 years of aviation-only experience
– 800+ five-star reviews
– Offices in California and Alaska
– Access to every major aviation underwriter
Conclusion
A great airplane insurance broker is more than a middleman, they’re your partner in protecting your aircraft, your business, and your future. They understand your risks, navigate complex underwriter relationships, and ensure your coverage evolves as you do.
For nearly 50 years, BWI Aviation Insurance has helped pilots and aircraft owners nationwide find the best coverage, the best rates, and the best service in the industry.
Get Your Quote From BWI Today>>
Visit www.bwifly.com or call 800-666-4359 to connect with a dedicated BWI aviation insurance broker.
BWI Aviation Insurance, protecting pilots, aircraft, and peace of mind since 1977.
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