Pilot Spotlight: Baron pilot and aerospace engineer Peter Rouse

February 11th, 2015

Half the fun of having a career in aviation insurance is talking to pilots and hangar flying on a daily basis. At Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) we do not make ourselves only available when it is time to renew or sell a policy, we love making new pilot friends and sharing stories about an industry we are so passionate about. We recently sat down with one of those friends, aerospace engineer Peter Rouse.

Embraer PetePete, tell us about how you got your start in aviation

Both of my parents worked for Beech Aircraft.  My dad worked for them for 25 years, and I have his gold watch that Beech aircraft gave to him.  My mother is on a Beech Aircraft employee’s handbook from the late 1960s; she has her lunch box in her hand, and she is wearing a sleeveless blouse and cat’s-eye glasses.

I started my official flight training in college in the late 80’s, but I ran out of money.  I finally was able to get my Private Pilot certificate in December of 1993.  Over the years, I kept flying.  I got my CFI in 2000, my CFII in 2001, my MEI in 2002, and my ATP in 2012.

Over the years, I have owned 8 airplanes.  A couple of them were projects.  My current airplane is a 1964 Beech B55 Baron.  It was probably rolling off of the assembly line right after I was born.  I am currently working on getting my type rating in a Citation Bravo.

Every year you join the Bonanzas to Oshkosh (B2Osh) migration. Can you share some more about that and other unique aviation activities you partake in?

The Bonanzas to Oshkosh (B2Osh) annual migration to Oshkosh started it all.  It is a formation flight from Rockford, Illinois to Oshkosh for Bonanza and Baron owners.  I have always thought formation flight was really neat, so I went to a B2Osh regional training clinic in 2009 and flew my first B2Osh in 2009.  We takeoff in formation in 3-ship elements from Rockford and land at Oshkosh.  I was over 40 rows back from the lead airplane, and all of the airplanes were running on the runway; it looked like the D-Day invasion.  On that flight, I heard probably one of the neatest things in aviation on the radio:  “Bonanza flight of 137, you are cleared for takeoff.”

After that first time, I started flying with a core group of pilots in Kansas City.  We formed a formation flight group called the Beechnutz.  We kept flying together and worked on more advanced formation techniques.  I attended an advanced formation clinic in Grayson, Texas with some other members of the Beechnutz in 2011 where I earned my Formation Flying Incorporated (FFI) Wingman card.  I earned my FFI Flight Lead card in 2012.  The FFI card allows me to fly formation with other card holders in waivered airspace at an airshow.  2011 was the first year I was asked to fly in a showcase flight at Oshkosh.  I was truly honored, as I never imagined that I would ever fly in the airshow at Oshkosh.  We again flew a showcase flight in 2012.  We did not get showcase flights in 2013, or 2014, so we are hopeful that we will in 2015.  Since we did not get a showcase flight in 2014, I was asked to lead a formation demonstration for the B2Osh participants at our banquet in Rockford.  I was privileged to lead a 31-ship formation flight with some of the finest pilots I know.

I also really enjoy being a flight instructor, because I always learn new things when I teach different people.  Being a CFI has made me a better pilot.

What was one of your most memorable flights?

That is a hard question to answer.  I find joy in flying a great approach, or performing a smoking rejoin.  I am probably at my happiest when I fly with the Beechnutz, as they are great pilots and great people.  I can honestly say I have had some of the best times with the Beechnutz; both in and out of the cockpit.

What is the best piece of aviation related advice you have received?

“Wind your watch.”  I was told this by a retired Air Force F-4 pilot.  It means that when you feel yourself getting task saturated, slow down.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with saying you need a little more time to get set up for an approach, doing a go-around, or landing and waiting out the weather when things do not look right.  Too many times we allow ourselves to get into a bad situation due to external, or more often, internal pressures; the accident statistics bear this out.  If it didn’t happen, then the phrase “get-home-itis” wouldn’t exist.

How did you first get in touch with your AIR agent and now friend, Jon Harden? Why do you trust your insurance to AIR?

I met Jon through a mutual friend.  Jon has been my agent, and my friend, since 2000.  The reason I stay with Jon is that he is a good and decent man who works hard to get the best deal for his customers.  His employees are the same way. I have stayed with Jon over the years because he has my trust and respect, and that is not something that cannot be bought.

The pilot community offers a variety of individuals from all walks of life, each have their own story and offer something unique to the aviation industry.

Pete also told us, “I can remember being asked when I was very young what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I answered ‘a pilot.’  Now I am a pilot, but the jury is still out on whether or not I grew up.”

Was this a dream of yours as a child? Are you ‘grown up’ now?

About Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR)

AIR specializes in a full range of aircraft and airport insurance for clients of all sizes. AIR can offer you the broadest package of protection at the best available rates. To find out more, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 301-682-6200 or visit AIR-PROS.com today and request your aircraft insurance quote!

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Cutting Costs on Aircraft Ownership

February 4th, 2015

With the cost of aircraft ownership on the rise, aircraft owners are in need of a way to reduce their annual costs. Besides trusting the experts at Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) to shop your policy for the best rates, there are some other options to keep your airplane flying and your pocketbook full.

Share the Love

A popular method for cutting aircraft ownership costs is simply by sharing the expenses. This can be done by getting a partner in the aircraft or joining a flying club. When someone buys a share in an aircraft partnership or a flying club, the annual aircraft costs are distributed amongst the group, resulting in less out of pocket expenses and more time in the air for the pilot.  If you have just one partner or two, or are part of small flying club or a large one with multiple aircraft, Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) can provide you with the a competitively priced policy to fit your needs.

Renting to Named Pilots

Do you have pilots interested flying your aircraft that you would like to charge a rental fee to cover some of your expenses? A commercial aircraft policy is not always needed, some aircraft insurance policies include rental to named pilots! To see if your policy qualifies, just call your knowledgeable insurance expert at AIR. We are happy to provide pilot information form for the prospective renter to complete or take the information over the phone. Sometimes there can be an additional premium for adding another pilot. This can be due to pilot qualifications or an additional pilot surcharge and would be pro-rated if added mid-term.

OpenAirplane

While you’re not using your aircraft, why not have another pilot keep the oil warm? OpenAirplane offers you the opportunity to do just that. Since the dawn of this new rental platform, AIR has been supporting OpenAirplane insurance needs, from the required renter insurance to OpenAirplane aircraft owner insurance. AIR works with Starr Aviation on renters insurance, pleasure and business policies and on commercial insurance. We are premier partners with Starr Aviation and have been able to create insurance options for those using the OpenAirplane network, making insurance coverage readily available and competitive. Because of this unique partnership, our two companies are the most familiar with OpenAirplane requirements in the aviation insurance market.

Aircraft Valuation

Do you know what your aircraft is worth? One step towards your airplane ownership budget is knowing the value of your aircraft. There is no point in spending more on insurance you do not need, but it is also important not to underinsure your aircraft either. It all starts with a call to AIR, where we can provide a free Bluebook valuation to start your aircraft insurance off on the right track.

Before you hang up your aircraft keys, consider the options above to assist in lowering your aircraft ownership costs. Often, it can start with a simple call to AIR. We shop all of the aircraft insurance companies competitive for the type of flying you do, therefore offering the broadest rates at the best prices available.

Aviation Insurance Resources provides a full range of aircraft insurance and aviation insurance products to clients of all sizes. To get started on reducing your aircraft ownership costs, please call 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today and receive an Aircraft insurance quote! You can also follow AIR on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

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What happens if…my hangar collapses?

January 28th, 2015

Not all aircraft insurance claims happen during flight or taxi. Sometimes, your aircraft can be damaged when it is tucked away inside the comfort of your hangar. Strong winds from a storm may cause the hangar to collapse or perhaps a fire is started from a lightning strike or an accelerant in a nearby hangar. Is your aircraft covered? What about the hangar?

The Aircraft

If you carry hull coverage on your aircraft insurance policy, you are protected if there is physical damage to the hull of your aircraft. Do you know what your aircraft is worth? Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) offers a free and easy way to calculate an estimated hull value for your plane. Click here to get your free aircraft valuation and aircraft insurance quote to see that you are properly protected!

The Hangar

A hangar you rent: If you rent a hangar from the airport or city, they may request a copy of your insurance policy to confirm that you have liability coverage. In addition, many airports require the airport to be named as an additional insured on your policy. This is to protect them in case a claim was involved with your aircraft or at your hangar.

Occasionally, hangar owners will request that you have premises liability coverage. This covers bodily injury or property damage connected to the storage of your aircraft. It’s possible that you already have some hangar coverage included in your policy! Some insurance carriers automatically include premises liability coverage in your aircraft insurance policy. If not, it may be possible to add it by endorsement or a hangar liability policy can be started for as low as $500 annually.

A hangar you own: A hangar protects your aircraft and associated contents from the elements. As the owner of the hangar it is your responsibility to not only protect your aircraft and contents, but the people who enter or are around your hangar from bodily harm. A hangar insurance policy can protect your building and provide you with liability coverage.  Protection can also be purchased for loss of business income, electronic equipment, tools, mobile equipment, fuel tanks, and business personal property.

Covered while building: Are you building a hangar and concerned about the hard work going to waste in the case of a freak storm, or someone being injured in its vicinity? Hangar insurance policies can have you covered before your project is complete!

To get started on requesting a hangar insurance quote, complete a quick and easy quote form online here.

Aircraft in your Care

Hangar keepers policies protect you for liability from damage to aircraft under your care. This coverage will reimburse an aircraft owner for any damages to their aircraft that you may be liable for while it is in your possession.

Aircraft Hangar Insurance with Aviation Insurance Resources

Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) is the one stop shop for all forms of aviation insurance. The pilots and aviation insurance experts at AIR keep up to date on the latest in the aviation insurance industry and how to best protect your assets and/or business. We are pilots protecting pilots, ensuring that your aviation insurance requirements are met. To get started, give one of our AIR agents a call today at 877-247-7767 to complete a simple and time-saving quote form online!

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Looking Back on U.S. Sport Aviation Expo 2015

January 21st, 2015

The cloudy days did not conceal the shine in the eyes of vendors, manufacturers, dealers and pilots at the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring, Florida last week. Aircraft ranged from Cub Crafters and Legend Cub to the return of Paradise Aircraft and the introduction of the new Groppo Avio Trail. All aspects of light sport aviation were represented at this unique expo.

The mood at the Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) booth was upbeat and positive as we saw an increase in attendance. Numerous pilots were taking advantage of light sport rules and returning to aviation after a long hiatus. Renter pilots were excited to find they could instantly purchase insurance for non-owned light sport aircraft on our website. And a large number of pilots also stopped by to ask questions about amphibious light sport insurance for airplanes like the Searey.

Light sport insurance quote requests included Sonex, Bristell, Tecnam, Evektor, Flight Design, Zenith, Czech Sport and Jabiru aircraft. This proves that enthusiasm for this relatively new aircraft category is still fresh; with many pilots stating the affordability of these aircraft and no need for an aviation medical as reasons why they chose light sport.

New and prospective light sport builders stopped by the AIR booth as well. We offer a builders and restorers insurance program, designed to protect the aircraft during the building or restoring stage regardless of pilot experience and qualifications. Customized with your needs in mind, this policy offers flexible liability and hull coverage options.

To discover more about insuring your light sport aircraft with AIR please contact us by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today to receive an aircraft insurance quote! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+

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Aircraft insurance FAQ: Where am I covered to fly?

January 14th, 2015

Many individuals become pilots for the travel and sense of freedom as general aviation opens up a world of airports and new towns to discover. Pilots create flight plans based on dreams of new cities, states and even countries to explore. There are many considerations prior to departing to these new lands. Weather, runway length and fuel services are just some of the variables a pilot would need to research. Before crossing a border, however, how many pilots have considered if their insurance covers that new escapade?

Policy Territory

Most insurance policies for aircraft registered in the United States include coverage for when flying within the 48 contiguous United States, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico. However, it is important to confirm this to ensure that you are flying within your policy criteria. When uncertain of the locations that your aircraft insurance policy covers, the key words to look for within your policy are “policy territory”. This section of the policy will outline where you are covered to fly.

Alaska and Hawaii

Alaska opens up a world of wilderness to explore, but it can require some extra skills such as mountain flying and paying close attention to ever changing weather. Good weather is what people dream of when they think of Hawaii, but there are many miles of bare ocean to cross before reaching your destination. Due to these states’ unique territory, it is best to double check your policy to make sure you are covered before flying on your Alaskan or Hawaiian flying adventure.

Mexico

Recently the Mexican government changed its requirement so pilots no longer are required to have a Mexican issued policy in addition to their US policy. Thanks to some research by the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA), you can find more information about this recent development on AOPA’s webpage here. However, if you are the ‘better safe than sorry’ pilot-type, issued in both English and Spanish, the Mexican policy and certificate can be quickly issued online. View a helpful checklist for travelling to Mexico and sign up for Mexican insurance here.

The Bahamas

As with Mexico, most policies territory cover the Bahamas. On some policies, however, it doesn’t and all you’ll need to do is to call your aircraft insurance professional to have the policy extended. With over 750 miles of islands to explore, great weather and crystal clear waters to swim in, the Bahamas are a general aviation pilot’s paradise. Looking to brush up on procedures for flying to the Bahamas? Visit our blog about it here!

Canada

Much like flying to Mexico or the Bahamas, the Canadian Aviation Regulations require a pilot to have proof of liability insurance on board the aircraft. Most policies include Canada in their territory, but there can be exceptions, for example, they may exclude the Northwest Territories.

Fly with AIR

To learn more about the territory written within your aircraft insurance policy, give Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) a call at 877.247.7767 or complete a quote request online. The aircraft insurance experts at AIR have been making the time spent shopping for the best insurance rates fly by for 15 years. Let Aviation Insurance Resources take the controls of your aircraft insurance so you can get back to checking of new sights off your aviation bucket list.

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Enhancing Lives at Orlandi Flight Center

January 7th, 2015

Founded by Geoff Orlandi in the fall of 2012 with the mission to enhance other’s lives through aviation, the Orlandi Flight Center offers flight instruction, aircraft rental and scenic tours in the Blairstown, NJ area.Orlandi Flight

In 2013 and 2014, the Orlandi Flight Center received the AOPA Flight Training Excellence award for providing superior instruction. Orlandi Flight Center was the only school in the northeast region where both the flight school and an individual instructor (Geoff Orlandi) received this honor. The flight school offers any training a pilot would need, from introductory flights or sport pilot or private pilot certification to commercial pilots and ATPs. If you are looking for an instrument rating, multi-engine rating, tail wheel endorsement, or just a flight review, Orlandi has you covered.

The Orlandi fleet consists of 1947 Piper J3 Cub as well as a 1969 Cessna 172. Adding to the Orlandi repertoire is a Redbird JAY Flight simulator available for the budget pilot in mind or for when weather conditions are less than ideal for training. The Redbird simulator is available at an hourly rate or an annual fee for unlimited use.

The Orlandi Flight Center entrusts Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) for their flight school insurance and flight simulator insurance needs. Each aircraft insurance expert at AIR shops all of the major markets to provide your flight school with the broadest policy coverage at the best rates. This saves both money and time, leaving your school to do what it does best…instruct and inspire future pilots.

Geoff Orlandi’s pledge is to “do everything I can to deliver the most rewarding flying experience available.” Just as AIR’s pledge to him was to provide service with integrity from aviation insurance experts.

It all starts with flight schools in the general aviation industry. At Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR), we provide a full range of aircraft insurance and aviation insurance products, including flight school and flight simulator insurance. To find out more about insuring your flight school or simulator, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit our website and fill out our quick and easy flight school quote request today.

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AIR Returns to the Sebring Sport Aviation Expo

December 30th, 2014

Each year, 16,000 attendees visit Sebring Regional Airport to see what the latest and greatest in the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) market has to offer. With a new Wednesday through Saturday expo schedule, the 11th annual Sebring Sport Aviation20130118_111404 Expo takes place January 14 through 17, 2015.  Gates open at 8:00am Eastern each day, welcoming pilots and aviation enthusiasts to a day of demonstration flights, workshops, forums, special events and exhibitors. Among the exhibitors are the agents and pilots from Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR).

AIR attends the Sebring expo annually to talk with LSA manufactures, owners and see the latest innovations in the industry. Since LSA certification was announced by the FAA, AIR has been a leader in providing light sport renters and owners with aircraft insurance at competitive rates. AIR shops all of the major market to ensure that you are getting the best rate and the broadest coverage available your light sport aircraft. With just one call, or a stop by their booth at Sebring, AIR can save you both time and money!

If you are in the process of building or looking to build your very own LSA, AIR also offers a builders risk package customized with your needs in mind. AIR’s builders and restorers insurance plan offers flexible liability and hull coverage options, without worrying about pilot experience and history. This plan provides peace of mind that all your hard work will not go to waste.

AIR is returning to the Sebring Sport Aviation EXPO in January 14-17, 2015. Stop by booth number T207 to see how we can assist you with your aviation insurance needs! To learn more about how AIR can assist you with your LSA policy, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today and receive an aircraft insurance quote! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

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One Stop Shop for Aircraft Insurance

December 23rd, 2014

A large aviation company has many operations to keep track of and the insurance requirements for each of these can become quite complex. An important factor in keeping on top of it all is having an insurance broker that can help keep you on top of all of your insurance needs. Luckily, the aviation insurance experts at Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) represent all the aviation insurance markets required to ensure superior coverage for your business.

The agents and pilots at AIR are delighted to assist companies in corporate aircraft insurance, workers compensation insurance and FBO insurance. But have you considered other areas where you may be held liable?

AIR can also place coverage for:

  • Aircraft assembly
  • Business interruption
  • Crime
  • Flight simulator
  • Hangar insurance & premises liability
  • Legal Liability
  • Manufacturers products liability
  • Runway & runway lighting
  • Spare parts
  • Stored fuel & fuel trucks
  • UAV, UAS and drones
  • …and more!

Start the New Year off right with a call to Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR). Our aviation insurance experts will speak to you about your operation and needs and deliver an insurance quote at the best rates and broadest coverage available.

Contact Aviation Insurance Resources today by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com  and complete your quote request! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

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Picture Great Coverage with AIR’s Aerial Photography Insurance

December 16th, 2014

The sky provides a unique view that you cannot find just anywhere. Climb to the branch of the tallest tree or sit upon the roof of the highest building and your photograph still cannot quite grasp that aerial perspective. This vantage point is an asset to many businesses. Construction companies will show aerial pictures of their work to investors and environmental organizations may be interested in tracking changing shorelines over time. Aerial photography companies are vital to creating this special look.

To sufficiently protect commercial aerial photo operations, more than just your typical aircraft insurance policy may be needed. Depending on the number of hours flown for aerial photography annually, this protection could be endorsed on your current aircraft policy, or a new commercial policy for this use may have to be started. A well-protected aerial photography business starts with just one call to Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR).  The insurance experts at AIR are also pilots who understand the importance of a cost efficient, yet effective policy to cover your business.

AIR represents all of the major insurance markets and offers the broadest package of protection and the best available rates. To learn more about how Aviation Insurance Resources can assist you with your aerial photography insurance please call 877-247-7767 or visit AIR PROS.com today and receive your insurance quote! You can also follow AIR on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

 

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TBM Aircraft Insurance

December 10th, 2014

TBMDescribed by Flying Magazine as a jet with a prop, the Daher-Socata TBM 700, 850 and 900 aircraft deliver jet-like speeds on a more economical budget. The six to eight seat, pressurized turboprop aircraft was first introduced in 1990 and has been going strong ever since. With a service ceiling of 31,000 feet a TBM can soar with the “big dogs” over hazardous weather and quickly to a destination at 330 knots true airspeed. Newer models are loaded with the latest glass cockpit technology and creature comforts such as air conditioning, TBM aircraft will make just about any pilot drool.

TBM 700A – The TBM 700 started it all, cruising at 300 knots true on a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-64 engine. The TBM 700B and TBM 700C followed with increased maximum weight, air conditioning, and other available add-ons.

TBM 850 – With an extra 25 knots at cruise altitude, the TBM 850 brought pilots more speed, without altering what made the 700 a success. The TBM 850 G1000 was the first TBM to be equipped with the G1000 glass cockpit system and the Elite model offered increased cargo and forward facing passenger seating.

TBM 900 – To date, 47 TBMs have been ordered in 2014. Dubbed the “ultimate personal aircraft” the TBM 900 boasts a 1,730 nautical mile range, can hit 31,000ft in just 18 minutes, and can land on 2,100’ grass runways; all without compromising the luxuries. Besides the 330 knot maximum cruise speed, other improvements include composite winglets, a five blade propeller, automated pressurization control and Garmin V14 software.

Experienced TBM owners, prospective TBM owners and transition pilots all benefit from a call to Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR). The aircraft insurance experts at AIR shop all of the major aviation insurance markets to obtain you the best rates and the broadest coverages available. Turboprop pilots owning aircraft such as the TBM 900, Pilatus PC 12 and the Cessna Caravan have been depending on AIR’s turboprop insurance experience since 1999.

From piston to turboprop aircraft to jets, the agents and pilots at AIR have you covered. Just one call can save you time and money. To insure your Daher-Socata TBM aircraft, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today to request your aviation insurance quote online!

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

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