Non-Owned Aircraft Insurance FAQ for Flight Schools

Flight school owners and managers ask the same questions about non-owned aircraft insurance again and again. This FAQ answers them in plain language, using SkyWatch's current terms. Every policy has its own wording, so read the policy itself before anyone flies.

Why does this matter to a flight school?

Students and CFIs usually need their own coverage before they fly school aircraft. When requirements are unclear, staff spend time answering the same emails and checking paperwork. Clear minimums and one quote page for everyone keep that work down.

What is non-owned aircraft insurance?

It is coverage for a pilot who flies an aircraft they do not own, such as a school trainer or a club aircraft. SkyWatch offers it as aircraft renters insurance for students, CFIs and renters, so the people flying your fleet can carry their own protection.

Which coverage periods are available?

SkyWatch is one of the few carriers with on-demand policies by the day, week, month and year. That suits students who fly in bursts, and CFIs who move between several aircraft. A student who flies a few times a month may suit a monthly plan, while a visiting pilot may only need a day. Our guide to on-demand non-owned insurance for flight schools goes deeper.

What hull limits can a student choose?

Liability for damage to non-owned aircraft (hull) ranges from $5K to $200K on monthly and annual policies. Short-term plans have a maximum hull limit of $75K. Compare those numbers with the values of the aircraft in your fleet before you set a school minimum.

What liability limits are offered?

Liability starts at $250K per accident with $25K per passenger, and goes up to $1M per accident with $200K per passenger. For a closer look, read our article on hull and liability limits.

Is medical expense coverage available?

Yes. Medical expense coverage is available up to $10K.

What is deductible reimbursement?

It is available up to $25K. The Liability Insurance for Damage to Non-owned Aircraft reimburses the owner or lessor policy holder of the non-owned aircraft up to the physical damage deductible paid, but not more than the deductible limit purchased. Ask your own insurance advisor how that fits with your school's policy.

What do P&B, I&R and Commercial mean?

P&B means Pleasure & Business. I&R means Instruction & Rental. Commercial is also available. The right category depends on how the aircraft is used, so confirm it before the first flight. Our article on use categories and exclusions explains how to match each pilot to a category.

Can our school set minimum requirements?

Yes. SkyWatch can customize flight school portals to meet your minimum thresholds, so students only see options that qualify. We can also add your school offices as cc on every certificate of insurance (COI), so the paperwork reaches you without chasing students.

What does a policy exclude?

Every policy has exclusions, and they differ from one policy to the next. We do not summarize them here. Read the policy wording, and tell students to read it too, before they fly.