Aircraft Insurance FAQ

❓ What is aircraft insurance?

Aircraft insurance is a specialized policy designed to protect aircraft owners, pilots, and operators from financial loss due to physical damage to the aircraft and/or liability for injuries or property damage caused during aircraft operation.

❓ Is aircraft insurance required by law?

In the United States, aircraft insurance is not federally required for private aircraft. However:

• Many states, airports, and hangars require proof of insurance.
• Lenders and leasing companies typically mandate insurance.
• If you fly internationally, local aviation authorities may require specific coverage.

❓ Who needs aircraft insurance?

You likely need aircraft insurance if you are:

• A private aircraft owner or renter
• A flight school or instructor
• A charter operator
• A corporate flight department
• A business using aircraft for aerial photography, surveying, ag work, or transport

❓ What types of aircraft can be insured?

At Aeris Insurance, we provide coverage for:

• Single- and multi-engine piston aircraft
• Turboprops and business jets
• Helicopters
• Experimental and kit aircraft
• Vintage and warbirds
• Agricultural aircraft and spray drones
• Non-owned and rented aircraft

Coverage Types

❓What is hull insurance?

Hull insurance covers the physical damage to your aircraft. It can be tailored to:

• Ground only
• Ground and taxi
• Ground and flight (full coverage)

❓What is liability insurance?

Liability insurance covers injuries to others or damage to their property caused by your aircraft. This includes passengers, people on the ground, and other aircraft.

❓What’s the difference between “Named Pilot” and “Open Pilot Warranty”?

• Named Pilot Clause: Lists specific individuals allowed to fly the aircraft.
• Open Pilot Warranty: Allows any pilot who meets certain qualifications (hours, ratings, etc.) to fly without being named.

Aeris can help you choose the right option for your needs and usage.

❓Does insurance cover acts of God (e.g., hailstorms, lightning)?

Yes, if you carry comprehensive hull coverage, it typically covers natural events like:

• Hail
• Windstorms
• Lightning strikes
• Bird strikes
• Hangar collapse

❓Does my policy cover international flights?

Many policies exclude or restrict international operations unless specifically endorsed. Aeris can help you add territorial endorsements for flights to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or beyond.

Pilot Requirements

❓Will my pilot qualifications affect my premium?

Absolutely. Insurers evaluate:

• Total flight hours
• Hours in make and model
• Recent flight experience
• Accident and violation history
• Training recency (e.g., recurrent training or simulator time)

A more experienced, lower-risk pilot typically qualifies for lower premiums.

❓Can student pilots get insurance?

Yes! Aeris offers coverage for student pilots, both for non-owned aircraft (rental insurance) and for aircraft owned during training.

❓ What happens if an unapproved pilot flies my aircraft?

If the pilot doesn’t meet the Named Pilot Clause or Open Pilot Warranty, your insurer may deny the claim, leaving you responsible for damages.

Claims & Incidents

❓How do I file a claim?

Contact Aeris Insurance immediately after an incident. We’ll guide you through:

1. Gathering documentation
2. Coordinating with your adjuster
3. Navigating FAA or NTSB reports if applicable
4. Ensuring fair and timely claim resolution

We’re your advocate throughout the process.

❓What if my aircraft is a total loss?

If the aircraft is deemed a total loss, your payout will depend on the agreed value in your policy. Aeris ensures your aircraft is valued accurately to avoid surprises.

❓What if my aircraft is a total loss?

If the aircraft is deemed a total loss, your payout will depend on the agreed value in your policy. Aeris ensures your aircraft is valued accurately to avoid surprises.

Buying & Owning Aircraft

❓When should I insure my aircraft—before or after I buy it?

Before. You should have insurance in place before taking delivery, even for a ferry flight or a pre-buy inspection. Aeris can bind temporary coverage fast, often same-day.

❓Can I insure an aircraft under construction or restoration?

Yes. Policies exist for project aircraft, including those undergoing:

• Restoration
• Experimental build
• Paint
• Avionics upgrades
• Annual inspection

We’ll tailor a policy that protects your investment.

❓What if I rent my aircraft out occasionally?

Let us know. If you’re leasing, sharing, or chartering your aircraft, you may need commercial or non-owned liability coverage to stay protected.

Commercial Operators & Businesses

❓Do I need different insurance for commercial use?

Yes. If you use your aircraft for hire, your policy must include commercial use coverage. Aeris works with Part 135 operators, ag pilots, and specialty aerial service providers.

❓What is hangarkeepers liability?

This covers damage to non-owned aircraft in your care, custody, or control—essential for FBOs, maintenance shops, and flight schools.

❓What is hangarkeepers liability?

This covers damage to non-owned aircraft in your care, custody, or control—essential for FBOs, maintenance shops, and flight schools.

Cost & Premiums

❓How much does aircraft insurance cost?

Costs vary based on:

• Aircraft value and type
• Pilot history
• Geographic location
• Use (personal, commercial, etc.)
• Liability limits and hull coverage

Typical annual premiums range from $1,000 to $20,000+. Aeris helps find the right balance of cost and coverage.

❓Can I reduce my premium?

Yes. Strategies include:

• Logging more time in make/model
• Completing annual flight reviews or simulator training
• Increasing your deductible
• Bundling coverage (e.g., hangar, renter’s insurance)

We shop multiple underwriters to find you the best rates.

❓Are payment plans available?

Yes. Most insurers offer monthly or quarterly payment options, depending on the premium amount and carrier.

Working With Aeris

❓Why should I work with Aeris Insurance?

Aeris Insurance is:

• 100% focused on aviation
• A trusted broker—not a captive agent
• Experienced in complex cases
• Known for personal service and fast response
• Partnered with top-rated aviation underwriters

We advocate for you, not the insurance company.

❓How do I get a quote?

Just click here to request a quote or call us at 844-422-0023. We’ll collect a few details about:

• Your aircraft
• Your flying experience
• Your intended use

…and then provide custom quotes—usually within 24 hours.

❓Can you review my current policy?

Absolutely. We offer free, no-pressure policy reviews to help you:

• Spot coverage gaps
• Ensure your aircraft is properly valued
• See if you’re overpaying

No obligation—just clarity.