Airplane insurance can address covered damage to the aircraft and covered claims made against an insured person or business. The policy wording, limits, exclusions and conditions determine the protection you buy.
Start with the type of aircraft, who owns it, who will fly it and its intended use. Then review each part of the proposed policy.
Hull cover for the aircraft
Hull cover addresses physical damage to the insured aircraft from covered causes. Ask which risks apply while it is parked, moving on the ground or in flight.
Review the aircraft value and deductible. Ask how repairs, a total loss, salvage and any upgrades would be handled. A value shown on a quote is not a promise to pay every repair bill.
Liability cover for claims by others
Liability cover addresses claims against an insured party for covered injury or property damage. Review the insured definitions, the activities covered and any exclusions.
Check the total limit and any separate limit for each passenger or person. Ask how multiple claims from the same event would be treated.
Also ask whether legal-defense costs reduce the limit or are paid in addition to it. Those terms vary. Our liability insurance guide explains this review in more detail.
Rented or borrowed aircraft
If you fly an aircraft you do not own, review your own liability and any protection for damage to that aircraft. Read the rental agreement for costs you may owe.
Tell BWI about the actual ownership relationship and use. A club membership, shared interest or company-owned airplane may need a different review. See our non-owned aircraft insurance information.
Extra benefits and endorsements
Some policies offer additional benefits or optional cover. Ask about the risks that matter to you instead of assuming the policy includes them.
- Medical payments and who can receive them.
- Personal items, spare parts or equipment.
- Recovery, transport and storage expenses after damage.
- Temporary aircraft or engines.
- Specific lender, lease or airport requirements.
Check each benefit’s amount, conditions and deductible. An endorsement can change the main wording, so read the documents together.
Exclusions and conditions
Review the treatment of wear, deterioration, mechanical breakdown and routine maintenance. Ask how the policy treats resulting damage after a fault. These can be different questions.
Read the accepted pilot and training requirements, permitted uses and operating area. Keep aircraft and maintenance details accurate. BWI’s maintenance insurance guide covers related questions.
When your plans change
Tell BWI about a new pilot, changed use, major upgrade, new base or different ownership before relying on the policy for that change. Ask what confirmation or amendment is needed.
If a loss has already happened, follow the reporting terms of the policy in force. Use the claim-reporting page and keep the relevant records.
Bring your cover questions to BWI
Have the policy or quote, aircraft details, pilot records and planned use ready. Request an insurance review or call 800-666-4359.
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