What Aviation Insurance Covers
Core Coverages: What’s Included in a Standard Policy
A standard aviation insurance policy typically includes core coverages that address the most common risks associated with owning and operating an aircraft. These include:
- Physical Damage Coverage: Protects against damage to your aircraft caused by accidents, weather, or other external factors.
- Liability Coverage: Provides financial protection for third-party claims, including bodily injury and property damage caused by your aircraft.
- Passenger Liability: Covers injuries sustained by passengers during an incident.
- Ground Risk Coverage: Protects against damage when the aircraft is parked or undergoing maintenance.
Optional Coverages: Customizing Your Policy
To tailor your aviation insurance policy to your specific needs, you can add optional coverages that provide enhanced protection. Popular optional coverages include:
- Loss of Use Coverage: Compensates for income lost while your aircraft is out of service due to repairs.
- Hangar Coverage: Protects the structure where your aircraft is stored from damages like fire or vandalism.
- War and Terrorism Coverage: Covers damages resulting from acts of war, terrorism, or political unrest.
- Pilot Coverage: Ensures that pilots operating your aircraft are fully insured, provided they meet policy requirements.
What’s Not Covered: Common Exclusions
While aviation insurance provides robust protection, there are exclusions to be aware of. Policies typically do not cover:
- Wear and Tear: Routine maintenance, aging, and normal depreciation of the aircraft.
- Illegal Use: Damages resulting from the use of the aircraft for illegal activities or unauthorized purposes.
- Unapproved Modifications: Damage caused by modifications not disclosed to or approved by the insurer.
- Acts of Negligence: Incidents caused by gross negligence, such as flying without proper certifications.