If you’re insuring your Cirrus SR22, you’ve probably come across a term that most brokers mention, but few take time to explain properly: Smooth liability.
It sounds better.
It feels safer.
It often costs more.
But is it worth it?
At BWI, we’ve worked with thousands of Cirrus aircraft owners, including SR22 and SR22T pilots. And one of the most important conversations we have with every client is around how liability limits are structured, and whether smooth coverage is the right fit.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Smooth Liability?
In aviation insurance, smooth liability means that your entire policy limit (typically $1,000,000) is available to cover any liability claim—regardless of how many passengers are involved.
Compare that with per-seat or per-passenger limits, where:
- You have a cap on how much each passenger can claim (ex: $100K or $250K)
- The rest is reserved for other third-party liability
- The limits are compartmentalized, which can reduce payout flexibility
Smooth coverage = flexibility.
It offers better protection in complex, high-cost incidents.
Real-World Example
Let’s say you’re flying your SR22 and have three passengers on board. A bird strike causes you to land off-airport. Everyone survives, but all three passengers suffer injuries.
If your policy is $1M with a $250K per-person sublimit, you might max out your coverage before medical bills and legal fees are fully addressed.
If your policy is $1M smooth, the full limit can be allocated where it’s needed most, potentially saving you tens (or hundreds) of thousands in uncovered costs.
Who Qualifies for Smooth Coverage?
Not every pilot automatically qualifies for $1M smooth liability.
Most underwriters want to see:
- 1,000+ total time
- 100+ hours in Cirrus aircraft
- Recent CSIP, Embark, or simulator-based training
- No recent claims or violations
- A stable insurance history
Even if you’re a transition pilot, we may still be able to structure a policy that gets you on track to qualify for smooth in the near future.
What Brokers Don’t Always Explain
Some brokers avoid quoting smooth liability altogether.
Why? It’s harder to place. It takes longer to explain. And it sometimes results in a slightly higher premium.
But here’s the truth: If you qualify, you should seriously consider it.
The added premium is usually a small percentage, and the added protection in a worst-case scenario? It could be life-changing.
Tips for Qualifying (or Improving Your Risk Profile)
- Complete CSIP or Embark training (and document it!)
- Submit your full pilot history, including SR20, SR22, and sim time
- Consider flying with a CFI to build time in type faster
- Maintain a clean claims and insurance record
- Work with a broker who can tell your story clearly to underwriters
Should You Choose Smooth Liability?
If you regularly fly with family or friends…
If you fly IFR or cross-country regularly…
If you’re building time and plan to own for years to come…
Yes. Smooth liability is worth it.
It’s a long-term investment in peace of mind, and at BWI, we’ll help you secure it if you qualify.
Want to See Your Options?
Whether you currently have smooth liability or want to explore it, we’ll walk you through what you qualify for today, what underwriters are looking for, and how to improve your options year over year.
Call (800) 666-4359 or click below to get your personalized Cirrus SR22 quote—with liability options built for the way you fly.
GET A CIRRUS SR22 QUOTE
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