Membership Services
What every pilot needs to know about renter's insurance
What every pilot needs to know about renter’s insurance
Many pilots who rent or borrow an aircraft don’t know that they are flying uninsured or understand the risks of flying without their own insurance policy. Contrary to popular belief, most renters are NOT covered by the FBO. The FBO’s policy does not typically protect you; it only protects the FBO. If an airplane you rent is damaged, you could be held responsible, and in some cases, the FBO’s insurance company can come after you personally. And that could cost you thousands of dollars.
Renter’s insurance through the AOPA Insurance Agency is the best way to protect yourself when renting an airplane. It’s affordable, comprehensive, and easy to get.
Q: Why should I buy a renter’s policy? Doesn’t my FBO’s insurance cover me?
A: Not usually. In fact, most renters are NOT covered by the FBO. The FBO’s policy protects the FBO, rarely the pilot. That means without renter’s insurance you could be flying without any coverage at all. If an airplane you rent is damaged, you could be held responsible.
Q: I have been flying without renter’s insurance for years. Why do I need it now?
A: Recent shifts in insurance practices have put the financial risk—even for minor mishaps—on pilots. With the increasing costs of parts and labor, repairs can run into tens of thousands of dollars.
Q: Is renter’s insurance expensive?
A: No. You can get comprehensive renter’s coverage from the AOPA Insurance Agency for as low as $175. It’s that affordable! And you can select the coverage and options that best suit your needs. Either way, the cost of renter’s insurance verses the cost of paying thousands of dollars in damage is well worth it.
Q: Does being an AOPA member save me money?
A: Yes! As an AOPA member you may be able to get a 5 percent discount. The AOPA Insurance Agency also offers a 10 percent discount at renewal to AOPA members who maintain a claims-free, clean flying record. And renter’s insurance rates have just been lowered, so you save even more.
Q: How much coverage should I buy?
A: For liability coverage, buy as much as you can afford and is available. For non-owned hull coverage, it depends on the value of the aircraft you typically rent and whether or not you want to be fully covered in the event of a total loss.
Q: Why the AOPA Insurance Agency?
A: The AOPA Insurance Agency is the only insurance agency to be 100 percent endorsed by AOPA—the largest general aviation association in the world. You’ll get great coverage at affordable rates. Plus, revenue from this program helps AOPA offer additional benefits to members and funds important GA initiatives such as AOPA’s Airport Watch, the AOPA Airport Support Network, and AOPA Project Pilot.
Q: How do I get renter’s insurance from the AOPA Insurance Agency?
A: It’s easy! Just visit the Web site to apply or call 800/622-AOPA (2672) for more information. We’ll extend coverage to you as soon as your application is approved. Then you can fly with peace of mind—knowing that you and your passengers are protected.
April 15, 2008
April 15, 2008
