Flying rented or borrowed aircraft is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to stay current and enjoy aviation without the expense of ownership. But what most pilots don’t realize is that the moment you take off in someone else’s airplane, you’re assuming risk that could cost you thousands, or even tens of thousands, of dollars.
That’s why airplane renters insurance, also known as non-owned aircraft insurance, is one of the smartest investments any pilot can make.
Whether you’re a student pilot renting from a flight school, a private pilot flying club aircraft, or a CFI instructing in non-owned airplanes, renters insurance provides essential protection that most flight school or FBO policies don’t.
Since 1977, BWI Aviation Insurance has helped thousands of pilots nationwide secure affordable, high-quality renters insurance. With nearly 50 years of aviation-only experience and 800+ five-star reviews, BWI remains one of the most trusted names in aircraft coverage.
This guide explains exactly how airplane renters insurance works, what it costs, and how to make sure you’re properly protected before your next flight.
Get Your Renter’s Insurance Quote With BWI Today>>
Why Renters Need Their Own Insurance
Most FBOs, flight schools, or aircraft owners carry insurance, but that insurance is written to protect their airplane, not you.
If you’re the pilot in command during an incident, you could be held financially responsible for:
– The owner’s deductible (often $2,500–$10,000)
– Damage to the aircraft itself
– Loss of use (revenue the owner loses while the aircraft is down)
– Injury or damage to other people or property
Without your own policy, those costs come directly out of your pocket.
Example
A student pilot rents a Cessna 172 for a solo cross-country. During landing, a gust of wind pushes the airplane off the runway, damaging the prop and gear.
– The FBO’s policy pays for repairs, but the student gets a bill for $8,000 (deductible + lost rental revenue).
– A renter’s policy with $50,000 in hull coverage would have covered the entire cost.
What Renters Insurance Covers
A renters policy is built from the same basic parts as a standard aircraft insurance policy, just tailored for non-owned aircraft.
1. Liability Coverage
Protects you if you cause injury or property damage while operating a rented aircraft.
Includes:
– Bodily injury to passengers or people on the ground
– Property damage (hangars, other aircraft, vehicles, etc.)
– Legal defense and court costs
Common limits:
– $250,000 per occurrence
– $500,000 per occurrence
– $1,000,000 per occurrence / $100,000 per passenger (most common)
– $1,000,000 “smooth” (no per-passenger sub-limit) for experienced pilots
2. Damage to Non-Owned Aircraft (Hull Coverage)
Covers repair or replacement costs if the aircraft you rent is damaged or destroyed.
It also covers:
– The owner’s deductible
– Loss of use (revenue loss while the aircraft is grounded)
Hull coverage amounts range from $5,000 to $200,000, depending on the aircraft type and your needs.
3. Additional Optional Coverages
You can add:
– Medical payments for injuries
– Legal defense outside liability limits
– Search and rescue expenses
– Coverage for borrowed aircraft (not just rented)
– Instructional coverage for CFIs or student pilots
What Renters Insurance Does Not Cover
Renters insurance won’t cover:
– Intentional or illegal acts
– Flights outside your certificate privileges or endorsements
– Commercial operations unless explicitly included
– Wear, tear, or mechanical breakdown
– Aircraft you own or co-own
Always read your policy exclusions and confirm coverage fits your operations.
How Much Does Airplane Renters Insurance Cost?
Renters insurance is one of the most affordable types of aviation coverage, typically less than the price of one flight hour per month.
Coverage Type | Annual Premium | Ideal For
Liability Only | $80–$120 | Pilots who rent infrequently
Liability + $5,000 Hull | $150–$200 | Students or training pilots
Liability + $50,000 Hull | $250–$350 | Private pilots flying regularly
Liability + $100,000 Hull | $400–$500 | CFIs or complex aircraft renters
Liability + $200,000 Hull | $600–$900 | High-value aircraft or frequent flyers
Factors That Affect Cost
1. Pilot Experience: More total hours and time in type = lower premium.
2. Training Level: Instrument rating or CFI certification can reduce cost.
3. Aircraft Type and Value: Higher hull value = higher premium.
4. Coverage Limits: More liability or hull protection adds a small increase.
5. Claims History: Past accidents or violations may raise rates.
How to Choose the Right Coverage
Match Hull Value
Choose a hull limit close to the aircraft you rent most often.
For example, $50,000 for a Cessna 172 or Piper Archer, $100,000+ for a Cirrus SR20/SR22.
Select Adequate Liability
At least $1,000,000 per occurrence / $100,000 per passenger is standard. If you frequently carry passengers or instruct, consider “smooth” coverage.
Add Loss-of-Use Protection
Many owners will charge for downtime while repairs are made, this add-on pays those costs.
Check for Flight Instruction Coverage
CFIs and student pilots need to ensure dual instruction is specifically covered.
Verify Additional Insured Options
Most FBOs require to be named as “additional insured” your broker can handle this.
Example Policy Scenarios
Student Pilot | Cessna 172 | $250K liability / $5K hull | $180/year
Private Pilot | Piper Archer | $1M liability / $50K hull | $290/year
CFI | Cirrus SR20 | $1M liability / $100K hull | $430/year
Business Pilot | SR22T | $1M smooth / $100K hull | $490/year
Common Misconceptions About Renters Insurance
“The flight school’s insurance covers me.”
It doesn’t. Their insurance protects the airplane, not your liability.
“I only fly a few times a year, I don’t need coverage.”
Even one flight carries liability risk.
“It’s too expensive.”
Most pilots pay less than $30 per month.
“All policies are the same.”
They’re not, some exclude instruction, loss of use, or borrowed aircraft.
Why Choose BWI for Renters Insurance
Since 1977, BWI Aviation Insurance has been the go-to agency for private pilots, students, and CFIs nationwide.
Why pilots choose BWI:
– Aviation-only expertise — no auto or marine distractions.
– Access to every major aviation underwriter.
– Fast, same-day coverage issuance.
– Personalized service with dedicated account managers.
– Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
– 800+ verified five-star reviews from real pilots.
“BWI made it simple, I had proof of insurance within an hour.” Private Pilot, California
“Excellent service and super easy process. Highly recommend.” Student Pilot, Texas
BWI by the Numbers
– Nearly 50 years of aviation-only experience
– 10,000+ pilots insured nationwide
– 800+ five-star reviews
– Offices in California and Alaska
– Same-day quotes and certificates
Conclusion
If you rent or borrow airplanes, renters insurance isn’t optional, it’s essential.
A single incident can cost more than a year’s worth of flying, but a renters policy protects your wallet, your reputation, and your freedom to fly.
For fast quotes and same-day coverage, contact BWI Aviation Insurance today.
Visit www.bwifly.com or call 800-666-4359 to get your airplane renters insurance quote.
BWI Aviation Insurance, protecting pilots, aircraft, and peace of mind since 1977.
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