By Matt White, CEO BWI Aviation Insurance Agency, Inc.
As we begin 2026, I want to take a moment to reflect on how far BWI has come, and to share a clear view of where we are going.
This past year was one of the most important in our company’s 49-year history. We crossed 10,000 customers, strengthened our internal structure, invested in new talent, refined our processes, and positioned ourselves for one of the biggest strategic expansions we’ve ever attempted.
But numbers and milestones only tell part of the story.
The real story of BWI is the people, our customers, our underwriters, our team members, who have helped shape this agency over nearly five decades. Your trust fuels our momentum. Your loyalty inspires our relentless focus on excellence. Your partnership gives meaning to everything we build.
And now, as we enter 2026, BWI is stepping confidently into a new era.
Investing in Leadership for the Next 50 Years
I am proud to announce the promotion of Kristen Suarez to Chief Operating Officer and Ryan Ammerman to Sales Manager.
Kristen has spent nine years becoming one of the most knowledgeable, capable, and respected voices in aviation insurance. Her leadership will strengthen every operational layer of BWI and ensure we execute with precision.
Ryan brings deep industry understanding, a commitment to service, and the ability to guide aircraft owners and aviation businesses through complex risk decisions. His leadership enhances our ability to grow nationally with consistency and excellence.
These promotions were not made lightly. They reflect a strategic commitment to building a leadership team that can carry BWI not just through 2026, but through the next generation of aviation.
Returning to the National Stage: 12 Major Aviation Events
In 2025, we intentionally pulled back from tradeshows so we could rebuild the engine of the company.
In 2026, we’re returning in full force with a national presence across 12 major aviation events, spanning Alaska to Florida, Texas to Wisconsin, Las Vegas to Denver.
We want to meet you.
We want to listen.
We want to strengthen the partnerships that make aviation unique.
These events are more than visibility, they are an investment in community.
Technology, Innovation & The Future of Aviation Insurance
This year will also bring:
- advanced AI-powered enhancements inside iFlyQuote
- automation improvements across FileMaker
- expanded customer service workflows
- new reporting and compliance tools
- early-stage groundwork for a future Commercial Aviation Division (development, not launch)
Innovation is not optional. It is essential for the next 50 years of aviation insurance.
Our mission is simple:
Build the most responsive, modern, and customer-focused aviation insurance agency in the country.
2026 is the year we accelerate that mission.
Thank You
Thank you for flying with us, whether you’re a pilot, a drone operator, an aviation underwriter, or someone who just loves this industry as much as we do.
Thank you for trusting BWI with your aircraft, your business, and your livelihood.
And thank you for making it possible for this company, started in 1977, to stand here today, stronger than ever, as we prepare for our 50th anniversary next year.
Here’s to an incredible 2026.
Fly safe,
Matt White
CEO, BWI Aviation Insurance Agency, Inc.
www.bwifly.com
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