If you’re a student pilot learning to fly helicopters, there’s a lot to think about.
Airspace. Autorotations. Ground effect. Emergency procedures.
But there’s one thing most students and their families overlook until it’s too late:
What happens if something goes wrong, and the school’s insurance doesn’t cover you?
At BWI, we’ve worked with hundreds of helicopter students across the U.S., and we’ve seen a harsh reality: many students are flying uncovered, with no protection if they damage the aircraft or someone gets hurt.
In this post, we’ll explain why non-owned rotorwing insurance is essential for student pilots, what it covers, how much it costs, and how to quote it fast.
👨Why Student Pilots Are at Risk
You’re probably renting the aircraft from a school, club, or instructor.
That aircraft is insured, right?
Probably. But here’s what you might not know:
- The school’s insurance likely protects the aircraft—not you
- If you damage the helicopter, you could be held personally liable
- The insurance company could subrogate and sue you for damages
- You’re likely not covered for bodily injury, lawsuits, or medical claims
Even if you’re flying with an instructor, you may still be considered responsible for what happens during the flight.
What Is Non-Owned Rotorwing Insurance?
Non-owned insurance protects you, not the aircraft.
It follows you across:
- Different schools
- Different aircraft
- Different instructors
- Different phases of training
It’s like a safety net that moves with you, ensuring you’re covered every time you climb into a cockpit you don’t own.
What Does It Cover?
It’s customizable, so you can tailor it to your needs and flying environment.
What Does It Cost?
Here are common coverage levels and pricing:
Liability Coverage:
- $500,000 / $100,000: $589/year
- $1,000,000 / $100,000: $741/year
Aircraft Damage Liability:
- $25,000: $602/year
- $50,000: $1,467/year
Deductible Reimbursement:
- $5,000: $124/year
Medical Payments:
- $10,000: $376/year
Total for most students: $1,200–$2,200/year
That’s a small price to pay for protecting yourself against tens of thousands in potential liability.
When Is the Right Time to Buy?
You should consider non-owned insurance as soon as you start logging hours.
Even if you’re not PIC, you’re still participating in flight operations. The earlier you’re protected, the better.
We also recommend it for parents funding their child’s training—it protects your family financially if something goes wrong.
Example Scenarios Where It Helps
Scenario 1:
You’re practicing hover maneuvers in an R22. The wind shifts and you tip the skid, rolling the aircraft.
Damage: $90,000
Owner deductible: $5,000
Your liability: Full cost, unless you’re insured.
Scenario 2:
Your instructor lets you land at a confined site. You clip a fence with the tail.
Damage: $50,000
Your non-owned policy pays the claim (if you selected the right limit).
Scenario 3:
You’re flying with a classmate. There’s a hard landing and both of you are injured.
A lawsuit is filed.
Without your own policy, you could be named personally in the suit.
How to Choose the Right Coverage
Here’s a typical setup we recommend for student pilots:
We’ll customize based on your aircraft type (R22, R44), school policies, and flying frequency.
Mistakes Students Make
- “The school said I’m covered.”
Not unless your name is on their declarations page.
- “It’s too expensive.”
One accident could cost you $50K+. This coverage is affordable by comparison.
- “I don’t fly solo yet.”
If you’re flying at all, you’re exposed.
- “My instructor has insurance.”
That covers them, not you.
What You’ll Need to Get a Quote
- FAA certificate (student pilot is fine)
- Aircraft types being flown (R22, R44, Schweizer, etc.)
- Training program (Part 61 or 141)
- Estimated number of hours this year
- Desired coverage limits
We return most quotes in 24 hours or less, and we can bind your policy and issue proof of insurance the same day.
Final Thoughts
Learning to fly helicopters is exciting, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. But it’s also a financial responsibility, and accidents can happen even during instruction.
Non-owned insurance gives you peace of mind from Day 1.
At BWI, we’ll help you:
- Quote quickly
- Choose the right limits
- Stay protected during training
- And renew with confidence
Call (800) 666-4359 or click below to request your non-owned helicopter quote today.
[ GET STUDENT PILOT COVERAGE ]
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