A Complete Guide for Drone Pilots
The drone industry has taken off, literally. From aerial photography to agriculture, drones are now essential tools for hobbyists and professionals alike. But with greater use comes greater risk, and that’s where drone insurance comes in.
At BWI Aviation Insurance, we’ve been protecting aircraft and pilots since 1977, and today we help UAV operators nationwide get the right coverage. This guide will walk you through what drone insurance is, why you might need it, how it works, and how to get the best policy for your needs.
What Is Drone Insurance?
Drone insurance is a specialized form of aviation insurance that covers financial risks associated with flying drones(also called UAVs or UAS). It typically includes:
- Liability coverage – Protection against injury or property damage claims caused by your drone.
- Hull coverage – Coverage for repair or replacement of your drone if it’s damaged or stolen.
- Payload coverage – For high-value attached equipment, like cameras or sensors.
- Non-owned coverage – For drones you rent or borrow.
If you’re ready to get a quote, visit our Drone Insurance Page to see the options and pricing.
Why Do You Need Drone Insurance?
Without insurance, you could be personally responsible for:
- Damaging property (e.g., crashing into a car or building)
- Injuring a person during a flight
- Losing your drone to theft or accidental damage
Many contracts, events, and government jobs require proof of insurance before you can fly. Even if it’s not required, having a policy shows professionalism and safeguards your financial security.
See our Commercial Drone Insurance guide for more on business uses and requirements.
How Drone Insurance Works
- Choose Your Coverage – Liability limits, hull value, and optional add-ons.
- Get a Quote – At BWI, we can get you insured in as little as 15 minutes.
- Pay the Premium – Annual or short-term (monthly, daily, or event-specific) options.
- Get Your Certificate of Insurance – Use this to show proof of coverage to clients or venues.
- Fly With Confidence – Knowing you’re protected if something goes wrong.
Types of Drone Insurance Policies
- Annual Policies
- Best for frequent flyers and commercial operators.
- Lower long-term cost compared to buying multiple short-term policies.
- See our Annual Drone Insurance page.
- Short-Term Policies
- Great for one-day jobs, events, or seasonal work.
- Available by the day, week, or month.
- Learn more on our Temporary Drone Insurance page.
- Event Coverage
- For weddings, sports events, concerts, or corporate gatherings.
- Satisfies venue requirements for liability protection.
- Details on our Drone Insurance for Events page.
Drone Insurance Costs
Your premium depends on:
- Drone type and replacement value
- Intended use (commercial vs. recreational)
- Coverage limits and deductibles
- Your flying experience and safety record
- Location and operating environment
For example:
- Recreational pilot with $1M liability – starting around $250/year
- Commercial operator with $1M liability + $5K hull – around $450–$800/year
For more details, see our Drone Insurance Cost Guide.
Common Myths About Drone Insurance
“My homeowner’s insurance will cover it.”
Not likely, most exclude aviation risks.
“I’m just a hobbyist, I don’t need it.”
Accidents can happen in recreational flying, too.
“It’s too expensive.”
Liability-only policies are surprisingly affordable, especially compared to the potential cost of an accident.
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Visit your Drone Insurance Quote Form
- Step 2: Select the coverage type and limits
- Step 3: Get your certificate the same day
Or call 800-666-4359 to speak with one of our drone insurance specialists.
Related Resources
- Part 107 Drone Insurance
- Recreational Drone Insurance
- Agriculture Drone Insurance
- Commercial Drone Insurance
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