Skyward Specialty Insurance Group announced its entry into the aviation insurance market through the launch of a dedicated aviation underwriting unit.
The expansion follows the acquisition of the assets of Acceleration Aviation Underwriters and builds on a partnership between the two organizations that began last year.
The company said that the move aligns with its broader growth strategy, which emphasizes the use of technology and data-driven underwriting to expand into specialized and underserved markets.
As part of the initiative, Skyward Specialty and Acceleration Aviation Underwriters are rolling out a program that will offer coverage for a range of aviation-related risks. The program includes insurance for commercial and general aviation aircraft, fixed base operators, flight schools, and public and private airports.
Chris Jones, founder of Acceleration Aviation Underwriters, said joining Skyward Specialty continues the team’s work in the aviation sector.
“With Skyward Specialty’s growth-driven strategy and our deep underwriting knowledge, we have the backing and scale to realize the full potential of our business,” Jones said.
Through this acquisition, Skyward Specialty adds a team of aviation professionals experienced in underwriting niche segments, including those considered hard-to-place risks. The company indicated that this aligns with its focus on complex risk profiles across various specialty lines.
Skyward Specialty has reported a series of financial results supporting its ongoing expansion strategy. For the first quarter of 2025, the company recorded net income of $42.1 million, up from $36.8 million in the same period of 2024.
Adjusted operating income rose to $37.3 million from $31 million year over year. Gross written premiums increased by 16.7% to $535.3 million, reflecting broader market initiatives beyond the aviation sector.
Andrew Robinson (pictured above), chairman and chief executive of Skyward Specialty, noted that the company has developed a relationship with the Acceleration team over the past two years, including working together with Acceleration as a program manager.
“By combining their deep expertise with our advanced analytics and tech-enabled underwriting capabilities, we are well positioned to scale this business and strengthen our position in the aviation market. This integration further reflects our commitment to our strategy to invest in specialty markets where insights, precision and innovation drive lasting value,” Robinson said.
The aviation entry is part of Skyward Specialty's larger effort to expand its presence across a range of specialty insurance markets. In addition to the aviation program, the company has recently broadened its portfolio to include mortgage re/insurance offerings.
Skyward Specialty operates through eight underwriting divisions: accident and health, captives, global property and agriculture, industry solutions, professional lines, programs, surety, and transactional excess and surplus.
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