Archive for January, 2014

Flying in the Bahamas

Monday, January 27th, 2014

 You’ve left the winter weather behind you. The sun shines brightly above, making the clear ocean sparkle below. Soon you’ll be sipping a cool drink on the beach, hearing the waves lapping at the shore. General bahamas 3aviation opens up a world of freedom, including the freedom to fly your personal aircraft to the islands of the Bahamas, offering over 750 miles of islands to explore. A trip to the Bahamas takes a lot more preparation for the general aviation pilot than it would for someone travelling on an airline. But with some careful planning, it’s guaranteed to be the flight of a lifetime.

Insurance

Most policies include the Bahamas in the policy territory, but it is important to make sure before you departure. If you are unsure if the Bahamas is included in your policy territory, simply give your friendly and knowledgeable Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) agent a call. If the Bahamas is not included, we will be happy to assist in having the territory extended for you.

Departure to the Bahamas

When departing to the Bahamas, the pilot must open a DVFR or an IFR flight plan as well as complete the eAPIS (Electronic Advance Passenger Information System) manifest. Arrival must be at an Airport of Entry to clear customs where the appropriate documents will be requested and the Bahamas Customs Processing fee will be charged.

Flying in with pets

Just as pilots have some forms to fill out in advanced, so do your pets that you may bring on vacation with you. Pets must be over 8 months old and have a medical certificate completed by a veterinarian within 48 hours of arrival in the Bahamas. A rabies certificate is also required and there are some limits to when the vaccine must have been done.

Departure to U.S.

Similar to arriving in the Bahamas, you must depart from an Airport of Entry, complete the eAPIS, file the appropriate flight plan and pay the departure tax. When readying your flight plan, be prepared that they will request it in ICAO format. Once back to the East Coast, you must land at an Airport of Entry to clear customs and immigrations.

bahamas 4A trip to the Bahamas is on almost every pilot’s bucket list. With the proper preparation and your insurance worries set aside, a general aviation pilot’s Bahamas vacation is sure to “fly” by!

If you are planning to fly to the Bahamas or to find out more about Aviation Insurance and aircraft insurance discounts, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today to receive your free Aircraft insurance quote!

AIR offers a wide range of aircraft insurance options for aircraft of all makes and models from experimental aircraft to standard aircraft, such as Cessna Aircraft, Beechcraft, and Cirrus Aircraft. AIR is also delighted to assist you with Robinson helicopter insurance, builders risk insurance, and corporate aircraft insurance.

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AIR Agents to Attend U.S. Sport Aviation Expo

Tuesday, January 14th, 2014

SebringTime flies and especially for pilots! It is time again for light sport aircraft enthusiasts to gather in sunny Florida for the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo! Whether you fly in or drive in, are a present light sport owner or just looking, the Expo has something for everyone.

The U.S. Sport Aviation Expo kicks off this Thursday, January 16th and continues throughout the weekend. Each day, attendees can participate in aviation workshops and forums and other activities. Enjoy performances by the Flying Musicians and stop by Show Center at 1:30 to see which keynote speaker is featured. Next enjoy the manufacturers showcase and an airshow at the Main Stage. It all ends Sunday at 2:30pm with awards, prizes and the 4th Annual Sebring Send-Off to the Bahamas!

From the Seaplane Base to the Main Stage, Aviation Insurance Resources agents Chris Wolbert and Joe Cacho  will be on the grounds of the Expo this week. They are looking forward to sharing their knowledge of LSA aircraft insurance, meeting new friends and catching up with current customers.

 

What is a Light Sport Aircraft?

Light Sport Aircraft include everything from tail draggers and tri gear to Floatplanes and Amphibians. So what actually qualifies as a Light Sport Aircraft? According to the FAA, requirements include:

1. The aircraft has a single, non-turbine engine

2. The aircraft has fixed landing gear

3. The aircraft holds a maximum of two occupants

4. The aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of 1,320 lbs.

5. The aircraft has a 45-knot clean stall speed

6. The aircraft has a 120-knot top speed at maximum continuous power

 

Light Sport Aircraft Insurance from Aviation Insurance Resources

Licensed in all 50 states, AIR provides a wide range of aircraft insurance options for aircraft of all  makes and models, from Light Sport Aircraft to large jets. AIR offers insurance on several LSA makes and models including, but not limited to: BushCat, Flight Design CT , Czech Sportcruiser, Cubcrafters, Carbon Cub, Evektor, Tecnam, Cessna Skycatcher 162, Bristell, and more!

If you need assistance in understanding Light Sport Aircraft insurance or wish to find out what aviation insurance discounts are available, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today and receive a free Aircraft insurance quote!

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Aviation Insurance FAQ: When will I receive my quote?

Wednesday, January 8th, 2014

Reasons to fly vary from pilot to pilot. Some are currently involved in an aviation career or working towards one. Some enjoy how aviation makes the world around them shrink, traveling to new destinations at any moment they get. Others enjoy the view from above flying near their airport on beautiful mornings. The aircraft used in these situations vary just as much as the pilots do; as will their insurance quotation and how quickly it will be received.

Agents at Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) believe strongly in providing service with integrity, to whomever contacts us. There are two types of quotations we provide: initial (new business) quotes and renewal quotes for current customers. All of our agents are pilots so we understand your aviation insurance needs. Aviation is not just an industry we work in; it is a passion we live every day.

If you’re new to AIR, it is helpful to have some information handy on initial contact. First being aircraft information, such as N#, make and model, and the hull value you are considering. Next, flying history on the pilots that will be flying the aircraft is needed. This includes full names, age, and ratings. An estimate of flight times, specifically, total time and time in the make and model of aircraft being insured and time flown in the last 12 months will also be requested.

Many aircraft with experienced pilots can be quoted the same day or within 24 hours. If it is a more complex or commercial risk it may take longer, specifically during the holidays or on weekends. AIR works with ALL the major aviation insurance markets (currently about 15). It can take time to obtain answers back from every market so that we can provide you aircraft insurance at the lowest cost and broadest coverage available. However, your agent will keep you abreast of recent updates on your file along the way.

For policies currently insured through AIR In order to obtain the best terms available for renewal, we get to work 90 days prior to your expiration date. This all starts when we send out a renewal update form to the insured. The renewal update form is quick and easy, it can be completed online within a matter of minutes with the pilot’s logbook handy.

With recent pilot information from the renewal update form, your AIR agent sets out to obtain quotes from all the markets that will provide a competitive quote for your coverage needs. About 30 days prior to the policy expiration date, you will receive your renewal quote. If you have any changes, questions, or concerns, contact your AIR agent immediately and they will be more than happy to assist.

Aviation Insurance Resources is pleased to accept checks, credit cards, and on larger premiums a premium financing plan is available. Save time…save money…call us first. One call to AIR gives you access to all major markets. Our professionals are waiting to guide you through the insurance process.

AIR offers a wide range of aircraft insurance options for aircraft of all makes and models, from experimental aircraft to standard aircraft, such as Cessna Aircraft, Beechcraft, and Cirrus Aircraft to Robinson Helicopters, builders risk insurance, renter pilots and Corporate Aircraft.  AIR also provides commercial insurance for Flight Schools, FBOs Charter operators, Maintenance shops, hangars, and workers comp and NEW UAV insurance.  AIR works with ALL the major aviation insurance markets and can help you find aircraft insurance discounts.

Click Here for a FREE Aircraft Insurance Quote!

To find out more about when your own quote will be ready, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today to receive your free Aircraft insurance quote!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Google+.

 

Understanding Light Sport Aircraft

Thursday, January 2nd, 2014

by Victoria Neuville
From: Aviation Digest; January 2014

Excitement. Travel. Freedom. These are all words many pilots use to describe what it is like to fly. Today, there is a plethora of aircraft options tailored to fit these descriptions and the needs of each and every pilot. In 2004, the FAA added a new category of aircraft: Light Sport Aircraft, or LSA. By adding this category, a new genre of pilot certification was also introduced, the sport pilot. Reduced training minimums and removing medical requirements allowed many pilots to take to the air again, or for the first time. These breakthrough additions were not popular at first, but are gaining momentum now more than ever.

Inexpensive.  Advanced.  No medical required. These are some of the many reasons pilots list regarding their decision to purchase or rent a light sport aircraft. What qualifies as a light sport aircraft? The aircraft must meet several requirements to include: a two seat maximum, a maximum take-off weight of 1,320 pounds and a 45 knot clean (no flaps extended) stall speed. In addition, the aircraft must have a single, non-turbine engine and fixed landing gear. Requirements can differ for amphibious LSAs.

While several new models have entered production to specifically fit these requirements, many vintage and other standard category aircraft have also been able to squeeze into this category. Many Aeronca and Taylorcraft airplanes are able to fly under light sport rules. Another popular existing model is the Piper Cub.

LSA pilots, like the aircraft they fly, must meet certain requirements, although these are a bit more relaxed compared to the private pilot certificate. A major benefit to the sport pilot rating is that an aviation medical certificate is not required: A valid driver’s license will do. However, if you have been previously declined a medical by the FAA, you may not fly under sport pilot rules until the medical situation has been reviewed. In addition, the Code of Federal Regulations 61.23(b) states “a person shall not act as pilot in command, or in any other capacity as a required pilot flight crewmember, while that person knows or has reason to know of any medical condition that would make the person unable to operate the aircraft in a safe manner.” When in doubt if you are able to fly legally under sport pilot rules, consult your physician.

Earning a sport pilot certificate is cost effective as minimum flight training time for sport pilots is 20 hours, versus the 40 hours required for a private pilot. An FAA sport pilot knowledge test and practical exam are also required. However, a sport pilot certificate does have its limitations. All flights must be conducted in day visual flight rules (or VFR) conditions. Flights also cannot be performed for hire or for business use. Sport pilots wishing to become sport flight instructors must complete the fundamentals of instruction training and knowledge test, as well as a sport pilot instruction written test and practical flight. Additionally, they must have five hours experience in the make and model aircraft before giving dual instruction. Pilots who are already flight instructors may instruct in sport planes without any additional FAA requirements.

Ease. Experience. One call. With the dawn of the light sport market came the need for LSA specific insurance products. Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) was quick to provide a variety of options to suit their needs.

Aircraft insurance is available on many levels for light sport aircraft. At a minimum coverage for bodily injury and proper damage is available, often known as “liability only”. For those wishing to protect the hull of the aircraft, physical damage is also available. There are several options available for the hull coverage, first being full, in-flight coverage. Others include ground-not-in-motion or ground and taxi only coverage.

These products can protect LSAs categorized as standard certified LSAs as well as amateur built (experimental) LSAs. For those constructing their own amateur built LSA or restoring a vintage classic, builders risk policies are available during the process, regardless of piloting experience. For those who chose to rent versus purchase their very own LSA, non-owned, or renters insurance, is also available and covers flying an LSA aircraft.

When contacting your insurance agent for a policy on an aircraft you own, it is helpful to have some information handy. First being aircraft information, such as N#, make and model, and the hull value you are considering. Next, flying history on the pilots that will be flying the aircraft is needed. This includes full names, age, and ratings. An estimate of flight times, specifically, time in the make and model of aircraft being insured and time flown in the last 12 months will also be requested.

Kyle Grim, the owner of a Rans S7 LSA recently stated, “I love my LSA’s unique capabilities and was impressed how easily AIR was able to understand what I need in insurance to ensure my piece of mind.”

To keep more cash in your wallet for avgas, there are several opportunities for insurance discounts.  Be sure to inform your agent if your aircraft is kept in a hangar at your airport base: Many times discounts are available for keeping it safely tucked away. Members of aviation organizations such as AOPA and EAA can also receive extra insurance perks and discounts through certain insurance carriers. Be sure to have your organization member number handy when shopping for an insurance quote. Some carriers offer up to 5% off non-owned coverage for those that complete a WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program phase prior to their renewal. Others offer discounts on owned aircraft policies when a WINGS phase or annual recognized training is completed.

Whatever words you chose to use to describe your passion for flight or your type of aircraft, safety and peace of mind are words you cannot ignore. The agents at AIR will be happy to help you find an insurance package that is right for you as you navigate the new world of light sport aircraft so you can focus on the words that mean the most to you.

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AIR offers a wide range of aircraft insurance options for aircraft of all makes and models, not just light sport! From experimental aircraft to standard aircraft, such as Cessna Aircraft, Beechcraft, and Cirrus Aircraft to Robinson Helicopters, builders risk insurance, and Corporate Aircraft. AIR works with ALL the major aviation insurance markets and can help you find aircraft insurance discounts.

 

Click Here for a FREE Aircraft Insurance Quote!

 

To find out more about when your own quote will be ready, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today to receive your free Aircraft insurance quote!

 

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Google+.