Aircraft maintenance and repair insurance

Brokers can explore the latest aircraft maintenance and repair insurance industry trends, risks, and FAQs. Find insights in this guide and products on IB Markets

  1. visit our Aircraft Insurance page for a look at all products in this sector 
  2. or focus in on all of the aircraft maintenance and repair insurance products available on IB Markets! 

What is aircraft maintenance and repair insurance? 

Aircraft maintenance and repair insurance shields businesses that service, repair, or inspect aircraft from financial losses. It covers incidents such as: 

  • accidental damage to an aircraft during servicing 
  • faulty repairs causing an engine failure 
  • a fire in a maintenance hangar damaging multiple aircraft 
  • loss of income due to supply chain delays in getting parts 
  • legal claims from airlines due to maintenance errors 

The UK’s aircraft maintenance industry ensures airworthiness for airlines and private operators. Insurance protects businesses from economic and legal risks as servicing demand grows. 

Aircraft maintenance and repair insurance: industry trends and emerging risks 

The UK government’s rise in defence spending has increased demand for aircraft servicing and insurance. New digital tools and predictive maintenance systems are changing how insurers assess and cover maintenance work. 

Ongoing part and labour shortages are also causing delays which push insurers to rethink pricing and cover terms. Other issues that need to be addressed by brokers include: 

  • longer repair turnaround times: part shortages disrupt schedules and business continuity cover 
  • ageing aircraft fleets: older planes raise repair risks and insurance payouts 
  • cyber threats to digital systems: predictive tools expose MROs to rising cyber liability 

Sudden delays in aircraft repairs are increasing aircraft-on-ground (AOG) situations which leads to more business interruption claims. New hybrid-electric propulsion tech is also bringing unknown hazards due to limited data. 

Aircraft maintenance and repair insurance FAQs 

Who needs aircraft maintenance and repair insurance coverage? 

The following businesses need this coverage: 

  • MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) providers 
  • independent aircraft engineers and technicians 
  • airlines with in-house maintenance teams 
  • hangar owners and operators 
  • aerospace manufacturers 

Insurance helps safeguard against monetary losses and ensures compliance with UK aviation rules

What are common aircraft maintenance and repair insurance coverage options? 

Stakeholders in this industry can add policies to create a well-planned insurance plan. Common coverage options include: 

  • public liability: covers damage or injury caused by maintenance work 
  • products liability: protects against claims from faulty repairs or defective parts 
  • premises liability: covers accidents at maintenance facilities or hangars 
  • workers' compensation: provides cover for staff injuries during inspections or repairs 
  • non-owned aircraft liability: covers damage to aircraft under maintenance but not owned by the business 

Aircraft maintenance and repair insurance protects businesses from threats linked to servicing, inspecting, and repairing aircraft. 

What is considered a major repair on an aircraft? 

A major repair is any repair that affects an aircraft’s airworthiness or safety. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) requires approval for these repairs before the aircraft can fly.  

They often involve critical parts such as the structure, control systems, or landing gear. Insurance acts as a safety net for this activity. 

Who is responsible for aircraft maintenance? 

The aircraft owner is responsible for keeping the aircraft airworthy and following CAA regulations. Maintenance is usually performed by CAA-approved Part 145 organisations or licensed engineers. 

Do maintenance providers or aircraft owners bear more liability? 

Liability is shared between the owner and the maintenance provider. Owners must arrange proper maintenance, while providers are responsible for correct repairs and servicing.  

If poor maintenance causes an issue, both parties can face legal and financial consequences. 

Is aircraft maintenance profitable? 

Aircraft maintenance can be a profitable industry, with demand growing as more aircraft require servicing. The global market is expected to reach USD$131 billion by 2030.  

In the UK, growth is driven by increased defence spending and new aircraft purchases. 

How do insurance costs affect MRO profitability? 

Insurance is a major cost, covering risks like workmanship errors and liability claims. Managing insurance expenses helps MRO businesses stay profitable in a competitive market. 

What is the difference between aircraft mechanic and aircraft maintenance? 

Aspect 

Aircraft mechanic 

Aircraft maintenance 

definition 

a person who repairs and services aircraft 

the overall process of keeping aircraft safe and operational 

scope of work 

focuses on fixing engines, landing gear, and mechanical parts 

includes inspections, repairs, and part replacements 

certification 

requires a licence (eg CAA or EASA Part-66) 

follows UK aviation regulations for safety and airworthiness 

Aircraft maintenance and repair insurance covers both roles. Make sure to save this page for reference and visit IB Markets for tailored insurance products. 

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