Private aircraft insurance

For more on this part of the insurance industry: 

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

What is private aircraft insurance? 

Private aircraft insurance is a financial shield against losses for individuals, families or companies that fly their own aircraft for personal or business use. Private aircraft include: 

• fixed-wing aeroplanes 
• helicopters 
• light sport aircraft and microlights 
• vintage or classic planes 
• personal experimental or homebuilt aircraft (if CAA-approved) 
• small business jets 

These range from tiny two-seaters to high-end jets, depending on the owner’s budget and purpose. Insurance allows their use, storage, and maintenance to be covered. 

Why private aircraft insurance matters in the UK 

If a private aircraft is damaged while landing, such as during an engine failure, the cost to fix or replace it can be very high.  

If the owner doesn’t have insurance, they would have to pay for everything themselves. Private aircraft insurance helps cover these losses.  

Private aircraft insurance: industry trends and emerging risks 

Private aircraft are now used more often for short city-to-city trips because of delays with trains and airlines. Insurers are creating policies that split the cover between users as more people are sharing aircraft. 

Helicopter use is also growing on farms and rural land, which means more demand for simple cover that includes landing on private property. But there are threats that brokers must focus on, like: 

• storm damage to parked aircraft: high winds and storms are raising ground claims and premiums 
• theft of avionics from hangars: stolen radios and GPS units are changing equipment cover 
• fuel system failures at private airfields: poor maintenance is causing engine problems and policy changes 

Some owners use private aircraft for both personal and business trips, which can lead to cover problems if the use is not clear. Others may offer flights for money without telling their insurer.  

Private aircraft insurance FAQs 

Who needs insurance coverage for private aircraft? 

Anyone who owns, flies, or manages a private aircraft should have the right insurance. Some of those who need private plane insurance include: 

• private owners 
• company owners 
• flying clubs 
• instructors and training schools 
• aircraft renters or borrowers 
• aircraft managers or operators 

The right cover relies on how the aircraft is used, stored and who flies it. 

What are common private aircraft insurance coverage options? 

Most insurers offer cover that protects both the aircraft and the people involved. Here are the most common coverage options: 

• hull insurance 
• public liability 
• passenger liability 
• ground risk only 
• in-flight cover 
• non-owned aircraft cover 
• equipment and contents cover 
• personal accident cover 

Private aircraft insurance policies in the UK are often built around key hazards that owners may face. 

How much is insurance for a private plane? 

Prices usually range from £1,000 to over £10,000 each year. A small light aircraft may cost around £1,500 to insure, while larger jets with more value can cost much more. But the actual cost is based on various factors. 

How can I lower my private aircraft insurance? 

There are simple ways owners can cut the cost of insurance for private aircraft: 

1. improve pilot experience: more flight hours and extra training can reduce premiums 
2. choose a higher excess: paying more if something goes wrong often means lower annual costs 
3. add safety equipment: modern safety tools and good upkeep help lower risk 
4. limit flying areas and hours: flying less or in safer areas can keep prices down 
5. use hangar storage: keeping the aircraft indoors safeguards it and may reduce the cost 
6. avoid past claims: a clean record could lead to a no-claims discount 

Talking to a broker is the best way to find the right savings for each aircraft and use. 

What is non-owned aircraft insurance? 

Non-owned aircraft insurance covers a person flying an aircraft they don’t own. It’s useful for:  

• renters 
• club pilots 
• instructors who use shared aircraft 

This type of cover works alongside private aircraft insurance by protecting pilots, not just owners. 

Is it worth having a private plane? 

Owning a private plane can save time and offer more freedom. It’s even more worthwhile when backed by the right private aircraft insurance for full peace of mind. 

Private ownership also gives more control over routes, schedules, and maintenance. With proper cover, the risks are managed, and the benefits become clear. 

Can I fly my own private plane? 

Yes, but the pilot must hold a valid UK private pilot licence. The aircraft must also be legal and registered under Civil Aviation Authority rules.  

That licence must match the type of aircraft covered under private aircraft insurance.