For decades, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has been one of the most recognized names in general aviation. Known for advocacy, safety education, and community support, AOPA also connects pilots to aviation insurance through its affiliated insurance program.
While AOPA airplane insurance provides a convenient option for its members, pilots often wonder: how does it compare to other aviation insurance brokers or direct carriers? And is it always the best choice for your specific aircraft and flying profile?
This guide breaks down how AOPA airplane insurance works, what it covers, how it compares to independent aviation insurance agencies like BWI Aviation Insurance, and how to determine which option truly fits your needs.
Since 1977, BWI Aviation Insurance has helped more than 10,000 aircraft owners and pilots nationwide secure proper protection through all major underwriters. With nearly 50 years of experience and 800+ five-star reviews, BWI brings a unique perspective on how aviation insurance really works, beyond the brand name.
What Is AOPA Airplane Insurance?
AOPA offers insurance programs through a partnership with a brokerage firm, AssuredPartners Aerospace, which administers policies on behalf of AOPA members. In essence, AOPA acts as the face of the program, while AssuredPartners is the actual licensed insurance agency that quotes, sells, and services the policies.
This arrangement allows AOPA to provide members with access to multiple aviation insurance carriers and some member discounts or benefits.
How It Works
– AOPA Members can apply for insurance directly through AOPA’s website.
– AssuredPartners Aerospace, the brokerage arm, gathers your pilot and aircraft information.
– Your application is submitted to several aviation underwriters, such as Global Aerospace, Starr, or Old Republic.
– You receive quote options based on your aircraft type, use, and experience.
This model is similar to what other aviation-specialized brokers, like BWI, offer, with the main difference being brand affiliation and membership incentives.
What Does AOPA Airplane Insurance Cover?
AOPA’s insurance offerings are comprehensive and include standard aviation coverage types:
1. Aircraft Owner Policies
For pilots who own and operate personal or business aircraft:
– Hull coverage for the physical aircraft (ground and in-flight).
– Liability coverage for injury or property damage.
– Medical payments for passengers.
– Optional coverages for spares, personal effects, and hangar liability.
2. Non-Owned (Renter) Policies
For pilots who rent or borrow airplanes:
– Liability coverage for third-party injuries or damage.
– Physical damage coverage for damage to rented aircraft.
3. CFI Coverage
Specialized protection for flight instructors, including non-owned aircraft used for instruction.
4. Commercial and Business Use
Policies for corporate operators, flying clubs, or small commercial aviation businesses.
In short, AOPA insurance covers all major categories of general aviation risk, similar to other leading aviation brokers.
The Benefits of AOPA Airplane Insurance
1. Trusted Brand Recognition
AOPA is synonymous with aviation safety and advocacy. Many pilots feel more comfortable purchasing through a brand they already know and support.
2. Access to Multiple Carriers
Through AssuredPartners, AOPA can shop your application to several aviation underwriters.
3. Convenient for Members
If you’re already an AOPA member, you can manage your membership and insurance in one place.
4. Support for Aviation Programs
A portion of proceeds supports AOPA’s member services and advocacy programs, which helps fund initiatives that benefit the aviation community.
5. Discounts for AOPA Members
Some policies may include small premium discounts for active AOPA members.
Potential Limitations to Consider
While AOPA airplane insurance is a reputable option, it may not always be the most competitive or flexible choice for every pilot. Here’s why:
1. Single-Agency Access
Even though AOPA (through AssuredPartners) represents multiple carriers, it’s still one agency. Other aviation brokers, like BWI, also represent the same underwriters but may receive different rates or have specialized programs unavailable elsewhere.
2. Membership Requirement
You generally need to maintain an AOPA membership to access their insurance program. Independent agencies do not have this requirement.
3. Pricing Variability
Insurance premiums can vary slightly between brokers because of negotiated commission structures and relationships with specific carriers. In some cases, independent brokers secure better pricing for certain aircraft types or pilot profiles.
4. Service Structure
Large programs often operate through call centers. Independent brokers like BWI provide direct account managers, meaning faster response times and personalized service.
5. Limited Specialization for Unique Risks
If you own an experimental, turbine, or commercial-use aircraft, independent brokers often have broader access to niche markets and underwriters.
Comparing AOPA vs. BWI Aviation Insurance
Both AOPA and BWI give pilots access to the same core underwriters, but the difference lies in speed, service, and personal attention.
Feature Comparison
AOPA (via AssuredPartners)
– Founded: 1939 (AOPA) / Partnered with AssuredPartners in 2018
– Specialization: Aviation-focused through partnership
– Carriers: Global Aerospace, Starr, Old Republic, USAIG, etc.
– Membership Required: Yes
– Service Style: Centralized call center / online quoting
– Coverage Options: Full range of GA and business aviation
– Customer Reviews: Varies by region
– Quote Turnaround: 1–2 business days
BWI Aviation Insurance
– Founded: 1977
– Specialization: Exclusive aviation focus since founding
– Carriers: All major underwriters including Global Aerospace, Old Republic, Starr, USAIG, and niche markets
– Membership Required: No
– Service Style: Dedicated account managers, personal support
– Coverage Options: Full range + custom programs for drones, hangars, and Alaska operations
– Customer Reviews: 800+ five-star reviews nationwide
– Quote Turnaround: Same-day quotes for most piston aircraft
Real-World Example: The Importance of Broker Experience
A pilot recently upgraded from a Piper Archer to a Cirrus SR22T. His AOPA policy renewal reflected a 25% rate increase due to aircraft performance and hull value. When the pilot requested an alternate quote through BWI, our team reshopped the risk with multiple carriers and secured identical coverage for 15% less.
The difference wasn’t the insurer, it was broker experience and carrier relationships.
How to Decide Which Option Is Right for You
Choose AOPA Insurance If:
– You’re an active AOPA member who prefers keeping everything under one brand.
– You value the advocacy support your premiums help fund.
– You own a standard piston or light twin aircraft and prefer established processes.
Choose BWI Aviation Insurance If:
– You want personalized service and a dedicated account manager.
– You fly unique aircraft (turbine, experimental, drone, or commercial).
– You want access to every available carrier—not just those within one agency’s portfolio.
– You prefer same-day quotes and direct broker access via phone or email.
What to Expect When Getting a Quote
To request an airplane insurance quote, you’ll need:
– Aircraft make, model, and hull value
– Pilot certificate and ratings
– Total and recent flight hours
– Intended use (personal, business, instructional)
– Location and hangar details
BWI typically provides same-day quotes for piston aircraft and 2–3 business days for turbine or jet policies.
Tips for Comparing Quotes
1. Review Liability Limits Carefully – Not all quotes use the same structure ($1M smooth vs. $1M/$100K per passenger).
2. Verify Deductibles and Exclusions – Some carriers have higher deductibles or exclude specific uses.
3. Confirm Pilot Requirements – Ensure all pilots meet minimum hour or training requirements to avoid denied claims.
4. Ask About Claims Support – Who will you call if something happens? A broker that handles claims directly can save days of downtime.
Why BWI Aviation Insurance Remains a Top Choice
Since 1977, BWI Aviation Insurance has been a trusted leader in aviation insurance. Family-owned, aviation-focused, and client-driven, we represent every major carrier while providing boutique-level service and same-day response times.
BWI by the numbers:
– Nearly 50 years of aviation-only experience
– 10,000+ aircraft insured nationwide
– 800+ five-star reviews from pilots and aircraft owners
– Offices in California and Alaska
– Access to every major aviation underwriter
Our clients range from private aircraft owners to flight schools, maintenance facilities, and commercial operators. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a fleet operator, BWI helps you find the best combination of coverage, price, and support.
Get Your Airplane Insurance Quote Today>>
Conclusion
AOPA airplane insurance offers a reputable option for pilots—especially for those who value the AOPA brand and member benefits. However, it’s important to remember that all aviation insurance ultimately comes from the same group of underwriters. What matters most is who represents you and how they manage your policy.
If you want dedicated service, faster quotes, and broader access to the aviation insurance marketplace, consider working directly with BWI Aviation Insurance.
With nearly five decades of experience, thousands of satisfied clients, and 800+ five-star reviews, BWI continues to set the standard for aviation insurance expertise.
To compare your coverage options today, visit www.bwifly.com or call 800-666-4359 to speak directly with a licensed aviation insurance professional.
BWI Aviation Insurance, protecting pilots, aircraft, and peace of mind since 1977.
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