Q: My friend told me that I need insurance for renting an aircraft. Aren’t I covered under my flight school’s policy?
A: Although flight schools carry protection for their aircraft, this protection does not necessarily extend to the renter pilot. Often the flight school agreement holds the renter responsible for any and all damage if a loss were to occur. In addition, an insurance carrier may seek to recover their losses by subrogating against the renter responsible for an accident.
Q: I rent a helicopter from a flight school. I know there is fixed wing non-owned insurance, but can I get covered for rotorcraft rental?
A: For years, helicopter renters have been greatly exposed due to the lack of non-owned rotorcraft coverage in the aviation insurance market. Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) has worked diligently to fill this need and now offers helicopter renters insurance! All of the agents at AIR are aircraft renters or owners themselves, so they understand that while most pilots never plan on having an accident, they can occur. This coverage can certainly bring “peace of mind” in the unlikely event that was to happen.
Q: I’m on a budget, is buying a renter policy really worth it?
A: Often pilots are unaware that their defense costs are also covered in a renter policy. In the event that a suit were to be brought against the renter pilot after an accident by an injured party (bodily injury or property damage or damage to a helicopter), a legal defense is provided by the insurance company and they will try and settle the suit within the limits of coverage purchased. Without coverage, just an initial consultation with an attorney for a couple of hours today would cost in excess of $500 alone. A non-owned rotorcraft insurance policy can start at as low as $304 annually for liability only! Discounts are also available if you are claims free or if you have completed a FAAST Wings phase within the last 12 months.
Q: I’m juggling a full time job along with helicopter flight training several times a week. How much paperwork is involved in securing non-owned helicopter coverage?
A: Good news! Starting helicopter renters insurance has never been easier! With one visit to our website, you can start coverage in under ten minutes and receive binder confirmation almost instantly! Simply click here to get started! Prefer to talk to an aviation insurance professional prior to starting coverage? Our agents and pilots are standing by to assist you with any questions and insurance needs. Simply call 877-247-7767 today!
