Ground Or In The Sky Great North Is By Your Side

Written by: Josiah Kopp

With Expert Advice from HUB International’s James Gulson.

Great North Insurance recently partnered with HUB International, offering an even wider gamut of protection to customers across the nation—including aviation insurance. With an ever-changing aviation world and shifting markets, it’s important to have the protection you need for your aircraft, and Great North is here to fly with you. Aviation expert and Managing Director of Aviation Services at HUB International James Gulson is here to provide greater insight on the changing market of aviation insurance and how HUB International and Great North Insurance can keep you protected.

Aviation Insurance Tip

Providers often offer different categories and levels of coverage based on different factors and the price also varies depending on these considerations. An individual does not have to own an aircraft to acquire protection. Some companies provide insurance for renters as well as owners. There are some other important items you should know about aviation insurance, including:

  • Policies are available for flying clubs and other organizations that own aviation vehicles.
  • Commercial-use aviation policies are different from private aviation policies.

Aviation Insurance: What You Need To Know

Aviation insurance is a form of property and liability coverage for flying machines. This includes airplanes, seaplanes, vintage specimens and other kinds of aircraft. It generally encompasses the cost of damage repairs for the flight conveyances, but it may also apply to related land property such as hangars where they are stored or airports. Aviation insurance may also include coverage for companies involved in the manufacture or supply of aerospace products. Liability for third parties that includes indemnification for harm to their aviation vehicles, as well as medical bills for any treatment required is also common in such policies. These plans may also protect personal belongings for any passengers in these vehicles.

Aviation insurance is an important precaution for situations where planes in flight experience technical or weather difficulties that cause wrecks or forced landing. There are also the costs associated with the treatment of injuries for the pilot and any passengers, an emergency landing if necessary including search and rescue, as well as money needed to fix physical damages incurred by the aircraft itself. This coverage also secures against claims or lawsuits that may be filed by non-operators who were on the aircraft. It is important for all owners of machines made for flying to have this insurance, particularly if their craft is used for business.

Getting Started

Setting yourself up for success when going to market for insurance starts with making sure you’re prepared. “Paperwork can be a burden, but it’s a crucial part of the aviation insurance world and can help you achieve better results,” Gulson said. “Providing updated data points on aircraft, pilots, training, utilization and sales, as well as material changes in risk can give underwriters the information they need to perform an evaluation.” Gulson also says that quoting from expired information as well as without signed applications and other supporting data will likely result in drawing unfavorable responses at renewal.

Next, Gulson recommends being prompt when submitting your data. The more prompt you are, the more critical time you allow to draw interest. “Underwriters do not appreciate last-minute submissions and they typically generate very little interest,” he said. Gulson also notes that this can be a great opportunity to evaluate your training practices. Regularly scheduled training courses are the gold standard when it comes to earning more favorable insurance rates.

Shopping for aviation insurance options might seem overwhelming, especially in the current market. Not to fear! With the knowledge and guidance of HUB’s Aviation Risk Management Team, you’re en route to success. HUB is committed to helping clients find policies that serve their specific needs and interests.

Fly At Ease Hub’s Got Your Back

Great North Insurance/HUB offers many valuable services that can make owning, operating and protecting your aviation investment easier, including:

  • Contract review and analysis for risk and/or liability implications
  • 24/7 emergency claims service
  • Emergency response planning
  • Arrangement of safety an engineering surveys
  • Annual review of coverage, values and limits

Coverage That’s Right For Your Business

HUB’s aircraft insurance specialists have the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the risks of ownership with an aviation program that’s right for your business. Coverage may include:

  • Aircraft hull
  • Aircraft liability
  • Aviation general liability
  • Aviation products liability
  • Aviation workers’ compensation

HUB’s professionals are ready to help protect your adventures. To learn more, contact Nick Killoran locally at 701.239.4647 or email at [email protected] Or visit hubinternational.com

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Josiah is an Editor and Photographer at Spotlight Media in Fargo.