Non-Owned Helicopter Insurance for CFIs. Are You Really Covered When Giving Dual?

If you’re a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) giving dual instruction in a helicopter that you don’t personally own, there’s something you need to know:

The aircraft’s insurance policy probably doesn’t protect you.

That’s right, even though you’re the one with experience, oversight, and a student in your left seat, you could be personally liable for any damage, injury, or lawsuit if something goes wrong.

At BWI, we’ve helped hundreds of helicopter instructors, especially those flying R22s, R44s, and R66s, get the right non-owned rotorwing insurance to protect themselves in the cockpit.

If you’re giving instruction in a helicopter you don’t own, this post is for you.

The CFI Liability Trap

Most instructors assume that if they’re working at a flight school or using a student’s helicopter, they’re covered by that aircraft’s policy.

But unless you’re:

A named pilot, or
You meet the exact terms of the Open Pilot Warranty (OPW)…

…you’re probably not covered at all.

That means if your student:

Rolls the aircraft
Hits a skid on landing
Over-speeds the engine
Or strikes the tail in a flare

…you could be on the hook for damage, lawsuits, and legal fees.

What Does Non-Owned Rotorwing Insurance for CFIs Cover?

Here’s what’s typically included:

Why CFIs Need It More Than Anyone

When you’re in the cockpit giving dual:

You’re still PIC in the eyes of most insurers and the FAA
You’re making flight decisions
You have access to the controls
You’re legally accountable for instruction and oversight

If your student makes a mistake, you’re still responsible.

What Does It Cost?

Here’s what most instructors choose:

Basic Liability:

$500,000 / $100,000: $589/year
$1,000,000 / $100,000: $741/year

Aircraft Damage Liability:

$50,000: $1,467/year
$100,000: $2,655/year

Deductible Reimbursement:

$5,000: $124/year

Medical Payments:

$10,000: $376/year

Total policy cost for most full-time CFIs: $2,000–$3,200/year

We can customize this based on the aircraft you fly, how often you fly, and what coverage you actually need.

What Underwriters Want to See

To get a quote, you’ll need to share:

FAA Certificate & medical
Total helicopter time
Make/model time (R22, R44, R66, etc.)
Whether you’re instructing full-time or part-time
Aircraft types most frequently flown
Desired liability and aircraft damage limits

We can quote most non-owned instructor policies in 24 hours or less.

Can One Policy Cover Multiple Helicopters or Schools?

Yes!

Your policy follows you, not the aircraft. You can fly:

R22s, R44s, R66s (or other models)
At different schools or locations
With different students or rental aircraft

As long as the aircraft fits within your policy terms, you’re covered.

Mistakes CFIs Make That Leave Them Uncovered

Assuming the school covers you

Always ask to see the declarations page and check if you’re named.

Skipping damage liability

Liability only covers others, not the aircraft. Add hull damage liability or risk paying out of pocket.

Forgetting deductible reimbursement

If a student damages the aircraft, you’re likely paying the deductible. Add $5K reimbursement, it’s cheap and smart.

Flying helicopters outside your policy’s scope

Some policies exclude turbine aircraft, Part 135 operations, or instruction. Let us help you structure it right.

Bonus Tip: Ask About Smooth Liability

If you carry passengers, demo flights, or higher liability risk (VIP clients, for example), we can request smooth liability, $1M–$5M CSL with no per-passenger limits.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a helicopter instructor, you are exposed every time you take the controls.

Non-owned rotorwing insurance is the single best way to protect yourself from financial disaster if something goes wrong during dual instruction.

At BWI, we’ll help you: