If you own or operate a Robinson R22, chances are you’ve come across the term “Open Pilot Warranty” (or OPW) while reviewing your insurance policy.
But what does it actually mean? How does it affect your coverage? And more importantly, should you have one?
At BWI, we’ve insured thousands of R22 owners and flight schools, and we answer OPW questions daily. Whether you’re adding instructors, flying with friends, or just want flexibility in who can legally operate your helicopter, understanding how OPWs work can save you serious headaches, and money.
This blog post breaks down what you need to know about open pilot warranties in the world of Robinson R22 insurance.
What Is an Open Pilot Warranty?
An Open Pilot Warranty is a clause in your aviation insurance policy that allows certain pilots to fly your aircraft without being specifically named on the policy.
It creates a sort of pre-approval condition. If a pilot meets the requirements outlined in the OPW, they’re automatically covered under your policy, no paperwork or endorsements required.
Think of it like this:
Instead of calling your broker every time a new CFI or pilot needs to fly your R22, the Open Pilot Warranty provides a “green light” for anyone who fits the listed criteria.
What an OPW Typically Looks Like
Here’s a real example of an OPW we’ve seen for an R22:
“Coverage is extended to any pilot holding a Private or Commercial Rotorcraft license, with a minimum of 500 total flight hours and 50 hours in make and model.”
That means that the pilot does not need to be listed on the policy, but they must meet the license and hour minimums.
If a pilot meets those benchmarks and flies your helicopter, the insurance company will treat them the same as a named pilot in the event of a claim.
Benefits of an Open Pilot Warranty
- Flexibility: Perfect for aircraft that are flown by multiple instructors, contract pilots, or flying club members.
- Less Admin Work: No need to constantly call your broker to add or remove named pilots.
- Faster Approvals: For schools or owners with rotating crew, this makes operations smoother.
- Lower Risk of Invalid Coverage: Without an OPW, any non-named pilot flying your aircraft could invalidate your coverage.
Risks If You Don’t Use an OPW (and Fly Without Approval)
If you allow someone to fly your R22 and they’re not a named pilot and don’t meet the OPW, here’s what could happen:
- Your policy could deny coverage in the event of a claim
- The aircraft damage may not be paid out
- You could be held personally liable for injuries, property damage, or lawsuits
- Legal defense would fall on you—not the insurer
We’ve seen situations where owners assumed a CFI was covered, only to find out they weren’t when a tail strike occurred during autorotation training.
Real R22 Policy Examples With and Without OPWs
Example 1: Policy With OPW
- $200,000 Hull Value
- CFI with 700 TT, 200 in R22
- Open Pilot Warranty: 500 TT, 50 in R22
- Annual Premium: $6,940
Allows flexibility for multiple instructors
Example 2: Named Pilot Only Policy
- $175,000 Hull Value
- Private pilot only
- No OPW – Matt and Matt only
- Annual Premium: $7,850
Each additional pilot would require endorsement + underwriter approval.
Typical Open Pilot Warranty Minimums for the R22
While every underwriter sets their own thresholds, here’s what we typically see:
If your instructors or backup pilots meet these, we can often secure an OPW on your policy.
Who Should Have an OPW?
You should request an OPW if you:
- Own a flight school or lease your aircraft to instructors
- Have multiple pilots flying the R22
- Occasionally let qualified friends or backup pilots fly
- Want to avoid delays or admin issues when pilots change
You may not need an OPW if you:
- Are the sole pilot of your R22
- Never allow others to fly it
- Want the most restrictive coverage possible for security
How to Request an OPW on Your Policy
When you work with BWI, we’ll help determine whether you qualify for an OPW based on your pilot profile, your aircraft use type, and underwriter appetite for flexible coverage.
We’ll request OPW language from every carrier who quotes your file, and compare them side-by-side.
Can an OPW Raise Your Premium?
Sometimes, but not always. Some carriers build a small surcharge into OPW policies. Others don’t charge extra, but increase liability minimums or deductibles to offset risk. In general, any increase is small, and usually worth it for the flexibility and peace of mind
We’ll review every option with you and help you choose what’s best.
Final Thoughts
Open Pilot Warranties are one of the most misunderstood parts of helicopter insurance, but also one of the most powerful tools when used correctly.
If you own an R22 and ever plan to let someone else fly it, an OPW might be the best way to keep your policy valid, your premiums stable, and your life easier.
At BWI, we’ve structured hundreds of OPW-equipped R22 policies, and we’ll help you decide whether it’s right for you.
Call (800) 666-4359 or click below to request your custom R22 quote with Open Pilot Warranty options.
GET R22 INSURANCE WITH OPW OPTIONS
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