As drones become more powerful, more capable, and more widely accepted across industries, it’s no surprise that more drone pilots, both recreational and commercial, are asking:
“Am I covered if I fly my drone in another country?”
At BWI Aviation Insurance, we get this question almost every week. Whether it’s a travel vlogger filming cinematic landscapes in Italy, an ag-tech pilot surveying farmland in Canada, or a filmmaker heading to South America for a shoot, the question is the same: “Does my U.S. drone insurance follow me across borders?”
The short answer?
Yes—many policies do include worldwide coverage.
But the real answer is more nuanced.
So let’s break it down.
What “Worldwide Coverage” Actually Means
If your drone policy is underwritten by Global Aerospace (which many of ours are), the declarations section will typically list the coverage territory as: “Worldwide”
That sounds like you’re free to fly anywhere, but the reality is more complex.
You are covered globally—but only if:
- You’re not operating in a sanctioned or restricted country
- You’re not engaging in excluded uses (like war zones, acts of terrorism, or illegal operations)
- You’ve obtained proper endorsements or permissions if required by the insurer or the foreign country
- You’re complying with local aviation laws and regulations
So yes, your policy might technically say “worldwide,” but that doesn’t mean you’re bulletproof from a claim denial if something goes wrong overseas.
Common Misconceptions About International Drone Coverage
1. “If my policy says ‘Worldwide,’ I’m good to go.”
Not always. While the policy may technically extend coverage, certain exclusions can still void your claim if you’re operating in a sanctioned or high-risk country. Countries under U.S. sanctions (as defined by OFAC) are not covered. That includes places like:
- Iran
- North Korea
- Syria
- Russia (in some cases)
2. “I don’t need to tell anyone, I’m just going on a short trip.”
We get it. You’re heading to Mexico for a weekend wedding and want to bring your drone for some great shots.
But if something happens: damage, flyaway, liability, you’ll be glad you confirmed your policy first.
At BWI, we always recommend calling us before your international trip so we can:
- Confirm your destination is covered
- Add any necessary endorsements
- Help with documentation or compliance if required
3. “Drone insurance covers me no matter what laws I break.”
Unfortunately, no.
If you violate local airspace laws, fly without a permit, or ignore drone registration requirements in a foreign country, and something goes wrong, your insurance carrier could deny the claim. This applies even if your policy covers you in that country.
Real Examples from the Field
Case #1: Commercial Videographer in Iceland
A policyholder with a DJI Inspire 3 was filming a documentary in Iceland. His drone was damaged during a landing mishap on a glacier. Because he:
- Had notified BWI in advance
- Had the proper permits from the Icelandic CAA
- Was flying within the scope of his policy
His physical damage claim was fully covered, even though it happened thousands of miles from home.
Case #2: Tourism Vlogger in Cuba
Another client assumed “worldwide” meant “anywhere” and flew his drone in Havana. The drone was confiscated on arrival, and no permits had been secured. Worse, Cuba was on the U.S. sanctions list at the time.
His policy did not respond—and there was no coverage for the seized drone.
What to Ask Before Flying Internationally
If you plan to travel abroad with your drone, here’s what you need to confirm:
Is my destination country covered under my policy?
Check your declarations page or ask your broker. If the country is under U.S. sanctions, your policy will likely not apply.
Do I need an endorsement or written permission to operate there?
Some carriers may require advance notice or documentation for international use.
Am I following local aviation laws?
Make sure to:
- Register your drone if required
- Obtain any flight permissions
- Avoid flying near airports, military zones, or protected areas
- Check for altitude and distance limits
Am I using the drone in a way that matches my policy’s use classification?
Most non-commercial policies are written for recreational or personal use. If you’re flying for hire, commercial filming, or business operations, you may need a commercial policy or endorsement.
The BWI Advantage: International Drone Expertise
We don’t just sell policies. We help protect your passion, wherever it flies.
When you work with BWI, you get:
- Expert policy guidance specific to drone operations
- Access to top-tier underwriters like Global Aerospace and Global Ag Risk
- A team that will walk you through international use coverage step-by-step
We’ve helped drone pilots operate in:
- Canada
- Mexico
- Italy
- France
- Australia
- South America
- And more—with peace of mind
Planning a Trip? Let’s Talk First
If you’re traveling soon and plan to bring your drone, do yourself a favor, call us at (800) 666-4359 or email admin@bwifly.com.
We’ll check your coverage, walk you through any required changes, and make sure you’re legally covered to operate abroad.
Don’t wait until something goes wrong to realize your policy didn’t apply.
Final Takeaway:
“Worldwide coverage” means nothing… if your flight lands in a country excluded by your policy.
When in doubt, check with us.
We’re here to protect your drone, your business, and your journey—anywhere in the world.
