Rotorcraft Insurance

Rotorcraft operations are among the most versatile—and complex—in aviation. Whether you fly a light piston helicopter for personal use or manage a turbine-powered utility or EMS platform, helicopter insurance must account for unique risk factors: low-altitude operations, hover work, landing zones, and mission variety. Aero Insurance partners with specialized underwriters who understand the nuances of rotary-wing flight and tailor policies that fit your mission profile.

Who This Page Is For

Private helicopter owners, training schools, tour operators, and commercial service providers conducting aerial photography, lift, utility, or EMS operations. We also serve pilots transitioning into rotorcraft and fleet managers who operate a mix of piston and turbine models.

Typical Uses We See

Personal or executive transport, flight training, sightseeing, powerline and pipeline patrol, aerial filming and photography, sling load and lift work, law enforcement support, and air ambulance or medevac (specialty markets).

Key Factors That Influence Your Quote

• Pilot Experience: total rotorcraft time, recent time in type, ratings (Private, Commercial, ATP), and turbine transition training.
• Aircraft Type: piston or turbine; single- vs. twin-engine; seating capacity; avionics and safety systems (e.g., FADEC, autopilot, HUMS).
• Mission Profile: personal, training, utility/lift, sightseeing, or EMS; higher-risk missions may require specialized markets and endorsements.
• Operating Environment: altitude, temperature, terrain, and landing zones (rooftop, confined, unimproved).
• Maintenance Program: manufacturer-compliant inspections, component tracking, and engine monitoring or overhaul programs.
• Hull Value: purchase price, installed avionics, and equipment (hoists, floats, cameras, external loads).
• Loss History: prior incidents, claims, or hard landings, with documentation of corrective training or maintenance improvements.

Common Coverages for Rotorcraft

• Liability: bodily injury and property damage, including passenger liability tailored to seating and mission.
• Hull: ground-only, ground & taxi, or full flight; agreed value coverage for high-value turbine Aircraft.
• Medical Payments & Search & Rescue: included or optional depending on policy tier.
• Equipment & Spares: optional coverage for hoists, cargo hooks, cameras, and specialized mission equipment.
• Non-Owned Rotorcraft: renter or student pilot coverage for dual given/received and solo flight.
• Commercial Operations: endorsements for aerial photography, lift, and external load (Part 133/135 where applicable).
• EMS / Medevac: coverage for medical equipment, patient liability, and crew under specialty underwriting.

Pilot Training & Proficiency

Underwriters place strong emphasis on recency and formal training. Annual recurrent instruction in make/model, autorotation practice, and emergency procedures can reduce premiums. For turbine helicopters, simulator-based training and structured SOPs often expand market options.

Operational Considerations

• Landing Zones: rooftop, confined-area, or off-airport operations require careful documentation and may influence rating.
• Mission Type: EMS, utility, and aerial work each carry unique exposure and may need specialized endorsements.
• Equipment: floats, wire-cutters, external cargo systems, and camera mounts can change risk classification.
• Maintenance: comprehensive tracking, logbook currency, and scheduled component replacements improve eligibility and pricing.

Cost Drivers & Ways to Save

• Maintain recent time in type and complete annual recurrent training with a qualified CFI or training provider.
• Participate in recognized safety programs (e.g., FAA WINGS, IS-BAO Rotorcraft).
• Hangar or secure your helicopter indoors when possible to minimize exposure.
• Document maintenance program compliance and use of HUMS or condition monitoring.

Popular Rotorcraft Models

We provide coverage for a wide range of helicopters—from piston trainers like the Robinson R22/R44 and Schweizer 300 series to turbine models like the Bell 206/407, Airbus H125/H130, and Leonardo AW109. For brand-specific insights, visit our manufacturer library.

Browse by Brand / Model

Documents & Details to Have Ready

• Pilot certificates, medical, total/recent rotorcraft time, and make/model hours.
• Aircraft details: N-number, year/model, engine/rotor time, avionics/safety equipment list.
• Mission profile and base of operations, including helipad/landing area descriptions.
• Maintenance documentation and inspection intervals.
• Any previous claims, incidents, or component failures.

Looking for information on other aircraft categories or specific manufacturers?

View All Aircraft by Type View Aircraft by Brand / Model

Ready to Get a Quote?

Tell us about your aircraft, pilot experience, and mission profile. We’ll tailor coverage and endorsements for your exact type of rotorcraft and operation.

Request a Quote