Most pilots don’t fire their broker.
They just renew.
Year after year, with the same broker.
Even when the service slips. Even when the premium creeps up. Even when you start asking yourself, “What am I actually getting here?”
But here’s the truth: Every broker should earn your business. Every year.
If they’re not, it might be time to make a change.
1. They Assume Your Loyalty Instead of Earning It
Loyalty is a two-way street. Your broker should be just as loyal to you as you are to them.
If they:
- Only call at renewal
- Send the same quote every year without reviewing options
- Don’t update your coverage based on how your flying has changed
…that’s not service. That’s coasting.
You’re not a number. You’re a pilot with real risks, needs, and priorities. Your broker should treat you that way.
2. They Don’t Shop Your Policy Unless You Ask
You shouldn’t have to ask.
If your broker isn’t checking the market for better pricing, broader coverage, or more favorable underwriting terms, what are they doing?
At BWI, we proactively market every renewal to ensure our clients always get the best value. If your current broker isn’t doing that, you’re likely overpaying, and possibly underinsured.
3. They Can’t Explain What You’re Covered For
Try this: call your broker and ask them what your current policy actually covers.
If they hesitate, can’t break it down clearly, or say, “Let me check,” that’s a problem.
You deserve:
- A breakdown of your policy in plain language
- Answers to “what-if” scenarios
- Confidence that you’re protected where it counts
If you feel like you know more than your broker, you’re not getting real support.
4. They Don’t Help You Improve Over Time
Your risk profile isn’t static.
You gain hours. Upgrade avionics. Switch hangars. Add training.
A good broker will:
- Ask about these changes
- Recommend strategies to reduce premium
- Help you plan 12 months ahead, not just react
Your premium should go down as your profile improves, but only if your broker is advocating for you.
5. You Start Asking, “What Am I Paying For?”
If you don’t feel like your broker adds value, they probably don’t.
It’s easy to assume all brokers are the same. They’re not.
Some brokers just want the renewal.
Others want the relationship.
At BWI, we work every day to earn our clients’ trust.
We don’t assume loyalty. We earn it.
And if you’re working with someone who isn’t doing the same, you owe it to yourself, and your aircraft, to find someone who will.
Final Thoughts
Firing your broker might feel awkward.
But staying with one who stopped earning your business? That can cost you far more.
You deserve:
- Faster response times
- Transparent renewal advice
- Coverage that evolves with your needs
- A broker who actually knows your aircraft
If your current broker doesn’t deliver all of that, it might be time to switch.
[Get a free second opinion from the experts at BWI today.]
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