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Flight Instructor Insurance: Cost & Quotes From $50/mo

Table of contents
1. General Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors   1.1. Add-Ons to  General Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors1.2. Do I Need General Liability Insurance if I Teach at a Flight School?2. Errors and Omissions Insurance for Flight Instructors2.1. Add-Ons to  Errors and Omissions Insurance for Flight Instructors  2.2. Are There Any Limitations in Errors and Omissions Insurance That  Flight Instructors Should Be Aware Of?3. Commercial Property Insurance for Flight Instructors3.1. Add-Ons to Commercial Property Insurance for Flight Instructors3.2. What Happens if My Aircraft Is Damaged Beyond Repair?4. Business Owner's Policy for Flight Instructors 4.1. Add-Ons to Business Owner's Policy for Flight Instructors 4.2. What Types of Businesses Can Benefit From a BOP?5. Tools and Equipment Insurance for Flight Instructors5.1. Add-Ons to Tools and Equipment Insurance for Flight Instructors5.2. How Do I Determine the Amount of Coverage I Need for My Tools and Equipment?6. Workers Compensation Insurance for Flight Instructors6.1. Is This Insurance Required by Law for Flight Instructors?7. Excess Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors7.1. Do I Need Excess Liability Insurance if I Already Have General Liability Insurance?8. Cyber Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors 8.1. Add-Ons to  Cyber Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors  9. Flight Instructor Insurance Cost10. Best Flight Instructor Insurance Companies 10.1. NEXT Flight Instructor Insurance  10.1.1. Pros10.1.2. Cons10.2. CoverWallet Flight Instructor Insurance  10.2.1. Pros10.2.2. Cons10.3. The Hartford Flight Instructor Insurance  10.3.1. Pros10.3.2. Cons10.4. Tivly Flight Instructor Insurance 10.4.1. Pros10.4.2. Cons10.5. Thimble Flight Instructor Insurance 10.5.1. Pros10.5.2. Cons10.6. Hiscox Flight Instructor Insurance 10.6.1. Pros10.6.2. Cons10.7. AOPA Flight Instructor Insurance  10.7.1. Pros10.7.2. Cons

As a flight instructor, you play a critical role in training and mentoring aspiring pilots. But accidents can happen even to the most experienced professionals. That's why it's important to protect yourself and your business with flight instructor insurance.

In this guide, we will explore different insurance policies available for flight instructors, the cost of each policy, and some of the best insurance companies for flight instructors.

General Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors 


CoverWallet NEXT (Best)Thimble HiscoxThe Hartford
Per occurrence limit $1,000,000$1,000,000$1,000,000/$2,000,000$300,000/$1,000,000$1,000,000/$2,000,000
Aggregate limit $2,000,000$1,000,000/$2,000,000$1,000,000/$2,000,000$300,000/$2,000,000$1,000,000/$2,000,000
Products and completed operations aggregate limit $2,000,000
$1,000,000$1,000,000$1,000,000$1,000,000
Advertising injury coverage aggregate limit $1,000,000$1,000,000$1,000,000$1,000,000$1,000,000
Tenant’s legal liability coverage limit $100,000
$100,000$5,000$100,000$1,000,000
Waiver of subrogation included?YesNoIncludedCan be includedNo
Hired/non-owned auto liability coverage included?YesNoExcludedCan be includedCan be included
Equipment breakdown floater included?No YesYesCan be includedCan be included


General liability insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for third-party claims. As a flight instructor, this policy is essential in protecting you against lawsuits resulting from accidents that occur during flight instruction. This flight instructor insurance typically covers:

  • Bodily injury–If a student or third party sustains an injury during a flight lesson, general liability insurance will cover the medical expenses

  • Property damage–If you damage someone else's property during a flight lesson, general liability insurance will cover the repair or replacement costs


Coverage limits for general liability insurance typically range from $100,000 to $1 million.

Add-Ons to  General Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors

  • Non-owned aircraft liability coverage–This covers claims arising from the use of aircraft that you don't own

  • Aircraft damage liability coverage–This provides coverage for damage caused to the aircraft during flight instruction activities


The Certified flight instructor insurance can also be available for flight instructors who have obtained certification from the Federal aviation administration (FAA). This insurance offers additional benefits or discounts for certified flight instructors.


Do I Need General Liability Insurance if I Teach at a Flight School?

Different flight schools have their own flight instructor liability insurance policies, but it's still a good idea to have your own general liability insurance for protection in case the flight school's policy doesn't provide enough coverage.


Errors and Omissions Insurance for Flight Instructors


CoverWallet NEXTThimble (Best)HiscoxThe Hartford
Per occurrence limit $1,000,000$1,000,000$1,000,000/$2,000,000$1,000,000$1,000,000
Aggregate limit $2,000,000$2,000,000$1,000,000/$2,000,000$1,000,000$2,000,000
Name additional insureds?YesYesYesYesYes
Waiver of subrogation included?YesNoYesCan be includedNo


Errors and omissions insurance, also known as professional liability insurance, provides coverage for cases resulting from alleged errors or omissions in your professional services. This policy is essential in protecting you against lawsuits resulting from mistakes made during flight instruction. 

The coverage limits range from $150,000 to $1 million, but higher limits may be also available. Errors and omissions insurance can help in specific situations such as:

  • A student argues that you provided incorrect information that led to an accident

  • A learner claims that you failed to properly train them, leading to an accident

  • A third-party claims that you provided negligent advice that caused them financial loss


Add-Ons to  Errors and Omissions Insurance for Flight Instructors 

  • Defense outside the limit–This coverage will provide additional funds for legal fees outside of your errors and omissions insurance policy's coverage limit

  • Hangarkeepers liability–Protects your liability for damage to aircraft stored in a hangar that you lease or own


Are There Any Limitations in Errors and Omissions Insurance That  Flight Instructors Should Be Aware Of?

As a flight instructor, it's important to be aware of the exclusions and limitations that may come with errors and omissions insurance. Some policies may exclude coverage for intentional acts or fraud, meaning that you may not be covered if you intentionally harm someone or commit fraud in your professional capacity.  It's crucial to read the policy details carefully to understand how the flight instructor insurance you choose covers you.

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Commercial Property Insurance for Flight Instructors


CoverWalletNEXT (Best)ThimbleHiscoxThe Hartford
Building coverage limit (minimum)$50,000$260,000$25,000/$500,000$25,000$60,000
Contents coverage limit (minimum)$50,000$22,000$25,000/$500,000$25,000$60,000
Outdoor signsExcluded$2,500ExcludedExcludedExcluded
Accounts receivableExcludedExcluded$5,000/10,000IncludedExcluded
Money and securitiesExcluded$2,500$1,000IncludedExcluded
Lock and keysExcluded$2,500ExcludedExcludedExcluded
Business interruption floaterExcludedIncludedIncludedIncludedExcluded
Equipment breakdown floaterExcludedIncludedExcludedExcludedExcluded
Inland marine insurance floaterExcludedExcluded$10,000ExcludedExcluded
Employee dishonesty floaterExcluded$5,000$2,500IncludedExcluded


This type of flight instructor insurance protects your physical assets in case of damage, theft, or loss. As a flight instructor, you likely own or lease a hangar or office space. Commercial property insurance can cover the cost of repairing your property in case of damage or loss.

Coverage limits can range from $100,000 to $5,000,000, depending on the value of your assets. Some specific situations where commercial property insurance can help include:

  • Theft of your aircraft or equipment

  • Fire or water damage to your hangar or office space

  • Natural disasters such as tornadoes or hurricanes

  • Damage caused by vandalism or riots


Add-Ons to Commercial Property Insurance for Flight Instructors

  • Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) coverage–Provides coverage for property damage related to drones used for training or other business purposes


What Happens if My Aircraft Is Damaged Beyond Repair?

Commercial property insurance can cover the cost of a new aircraft up to the policy's coverage limit, provided that it got damaged while stationary within business premises. However, it's important to review your policy's terms and conditions to understand the coverage limits and exclusions.




Business Owner's Policy for Flight Instructors


CoverWalletThimble (Best)NEXTHiscoxThe Hartford
General liability aggregate limit$2,000,000$2,000,000$2,000,000$300,000$1,000,000/$2,000,000
Commercial property coverage limit$50,000$500,000$260,000$25,000$75,000
Optional policies can be added?YesYesYesYesYes
Name additional insureds for free?YesYesYesYesYes
BOP discount?YesYesYesYesYes


A BOP is a comprehensive insurance policy that combines different types of coverage in a single package. BOPs typically include general flight instructor liability insurance and property insurance.

Coverage limits for your BOP can range from $500,000 to $2,000,000. This policy can protect you from a range of risks, including:

  • Your property, such as your office or equipment, is damaged or destroyed due to an event like a fire, storm or theft, a BOP can help cover the cost of repairing or replacing the property

  • You may face liability claims from students or others if they are injured or suffer damages as a result of your services. A BOP can provide coverage for third-party bodily injury or property damage claims, as well as legal defense costs

  • If your business operations are interrupted due to a covered event like a fire or natural disaster, a BOP can help cover lost income and operating expenses


Add-Ons to Business Owner's Policy for Flight Instructors

  • Professional liability insurance–As a flight instructor, this coverage can protect you if a student sues you for negligence or claims that you failed to provide proper instruction

  • Employment practices liability insurance–This coverage can help protect your business if an employee sues you for discrimination, wrongful termination, or other employment-related claims


What Types of Businesses Can Benefit From a BOP?

BOPs are ideal for small businesses, particularly those in low-risk industries such as office-based professions, retail, and services. However, flight instructors who operate their own business can also benefit from a BOP, as it provides comprehensive flight instructor insurance coverages at an affordable price.


Tools and Equipment Insurance for Flight Instructors


NEXTThimbleHiscoxThe Hartford
Aggregate limit$3,000/$10,000$2,500/$5,000$15,000/$25,000$5,000-$10,000
Covers hired and borrowed equipment?$3,000/$10,000$2,500/$5,000NoYes
Miscellaneous equipment also covered?$5,000/$10,000NoYesYes
Offered as an endorsement to general liability insurance?YesYesYesYes
Deductible$500$500$0$0


Tools and equipment insurance provides coverage for flight instructors' equipment, tools, and other supplies that are used in flight training.

The coverage limits for this policy vary, but naturally range from about $5,000 to $20,000. This policy can help flight instructors in specific situations such as:

  • Theft of equipment

  • Damage to equipment due to a fire

  • Natural disasters


Add-Ons to Tools and Equipment Insurance for Flight Instructors

  • Inland marine coverage–This add-on can protect your equipment while it is being transported, such as during airshows or training sessions at other airports

  • Electronic data processing coverage–This covers the loss or damage of electronic data, such as instructional materials, curriculum plans, and other teaching aids


How Do I Determine the Amount of Coverage I Need for My Tools and Equipment?

Determining the appropriate amount of coverage for your tools and equipment is important. To determine the appropriate coverage amount, consider conducting a detailed inventory of your equipment and determining its overall value.


Workers Compensation Insurance for Flight Instructors

This policy provides flight instructors insurance coverage if you are injured while working. This policy covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related expenses for work-related injuries. This policy can help flight instructors in specific situations such as:

  • Injuries sustained while giving flying lessons

  • Accidents that occur while performing maintenance on aircraft


Is This Insurance Required by Law for Flight Instructors?

This depends on the state in which you operate. Some states require all employers to carry workers compensation insurance, while others exempt small businesses.


Excess Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors

This policy provides supplementary coverage beyond the limits of your primary flight instructor liability insurance policy. Excess liability insurance can cover damages or legal fees resulting from accidents or incidents that exceed the coverage limits of your primary policy.

Coverage limits for excess liability policy range from $1 million to $5 million. This policy can help you in specific situations such as:

  • A lawsuit resulting from a student's injury during a flight lesson.

  • Property damage caused during instruction


Do I Need Excess Liability Insurance if I Already Have General Liability Insurance?

While general liability insurance can provide important coverage for flight instructors, it may not be enough in certain situations. Excess liability insurance can provide additional coverage beyond the limits of this primary policy, which can be important in cases involving serious injury or death, large property damage claims, or expensive legal fees.


Cyber Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors

This policy is designed to protect you from the risks associated with data breaches, phishing, malware, ransomware, and other cyber attacks. Cyber liability insurance covers the cost of legal defense, customer notification, data recovery, and business income loss.


Add-Ons to Cyber Liability Insurance for Flight Instructors

  • Cyber extortion coverage–This coverage can provide protection against losses resulting from threats to damage, destroy, or steal electronic data or to release confidential information unless a ransom is paid

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Flight Instructor Insurance Cost


Cost per MonthCost per YearDeductible
General liability insurance$42$504$0-$500
Professional liability insurance$50$600$500-$1,000
Commercial property insurance$67$804$1,000-$2,000
Business owner's policy$109$1,308$500-$1,000
Workers compensation insurance$83$996$1,500
Cyber liability insurance$70$840$500-$1,000
Tools and equipment insurance$46$552$500-$1,000
Excess liability insurance$53$636$1,000-$2,000


On average, the cost of flight instructor insurance is $42 per month or $504 per year for a $1 million general liability policy. The flight instructor insurance cost varies depending on several factors, such as the coverage limits, deductible, location, and type of aircraft you operate. Here’s a table showing how much the best companies charge for a $1 million general liability insurance:


Cost per MonthCost per YearBest For
NEXT$25$300Best overall; Fastest general liability insurance for flight instructors
CoverWallet$27$324Comparing flight instructor insurance quotes online
The Hartford$31$372Workers compensation insurance for flight instructors
Tivly$33$396Comparing flight instructor insurance quotes over the phone
Thimble$36$432Short-term insurance coverage for flight instructors
Hiscox$34$408Medium-sized flight instructor businesses with various insurance needs
AOPA$60$720Certified flight schools and flight instructors

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Best Flight Instructor Insurance Companies 

When purchasing flight instructor insurance, make sure to choose a policy that fits your specific needs and budget. It's essential to find a balance between adequate coverage and affordable premiums to ensure you have the protection you need without breaking the bank. 

Here are some of the companies you should consider working with. Read some of the reviews below to know their pros, cons, and average rate for a $1 million general liability insurance. 


NEXT Flight Instructor Insurance 

Pros

  • Best overall

  • Issues an online proof of insurance instantly

  • Fastest general liability insurance for flight instructors

  • Great customer service and reputation

  • Excellent rates

  • Outstanding value for money

  • Get a 10% discount if you buy two or more policies 

Cons

  • May not be available in all areas

NEXT is an online business insurance company that offers small-business owners a wide range of policies. One of the critical advantages of Next Insurance is its digital platform, which allows users to conveniently purchase policies, access and share certificates of insurance, and manage claims online. 

Despite being established in 2016, Next Insurance handles its own claims and is independently rated by AM Best, setting it apart from other online business insurance providers. This makes Next Insurance an ideal choice for small-business owners who require quick coverage and prefer the convenience of digital policy management.

Best for: Best overall; Fastest general liability insurance for flight instructors

Average cost: $25 per month

Our rating: 10/10


CoverWallet Flight Instructor Insurance 

Pros

  • Manage your policies quickly online

  • Compare quotes online

  • Terrorism coverage can be included to general liability insurance

  • They provide outstanding customer service and support

Cons

  • Not an insurance company but an insurance broker 

CoverWallet is another reputable option for customizable flight instructor insurance policies. Established in 2015, the company has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to insurance. 

CoverWallet specializes in providing tailored insurance solutions for small businesses, offering flexibility and customization options to meet the unique needs of flight instructors. Their user-friendly platform allows flight instructors to easily explore coverage options, customize policies, and manage their insurance online. 

With CoverWallet, flight instructors can expect a seamless and personalized insurance experience backed by the company's expertise in serving small businesses.

Best for: Comparing flight instructor insurance quotes online

Average cost: $27 per month 

Our rating: 10/10


The Hartford Flight Instructor Insurance 

Pros

  • They have a long-standing reputation as a reliable insurance company

  • Received numerous awards for their workers comp policies

  • Reduced rates are offered to individuals who are 50 years old or older

Cons

  • You need to call an agent for a quote on specialized insurance solutions

The Hartford is a widely recognized insurance company that offers affordable and comprehensive flight instructor insurance policies. With their extensive experience in the industry, Hartford is known for providing reliable coverage options tailored to the needs of flight instructors. 

Their insurance policies encompass various aspects, including liability coverage to protect against bodily injury or property damage during flight instruction, as well as hull coverage for the aircraft used in instruction. By offering a range of coverage options, Hartford aims to ensure that flight instructors have access to the protection they require at a reasonable cost.

Best for: Workers compensation insurance for flight instructors

Average cost: $31 per month

Our rating: 10/10


Tivly Flight Instructor Insurance

Pros

  • Has affordable insurance solutions, with cheap monthly policies

  • Rapid data estimation to enhance the fulfillment of customers

  • Compare quotes over the phone

Cons

  • No online quotes 

Tivly is a newer insurance provider specializing in flight instructor liability insurance coverage. Although relatively new to the industry, Tivly focuses specifically on addressing the unique liability risks faced by flight instructors. Their insurance policies are designed to protect flight instructors against potential claims and lawsuits arising from accidents or injuries that occur during flight instruction sessions. 

Tivly aims to provide comprehensive liability coverage that meets the specific needs of flight instructors, offering them peace of mind and financial protection. As a newer entrant in the market, Tivly brings fresh perspectives and tailored solutions to flight instructor insurance. Call now to compare quotes over the phone. 

Best for: Comparing flight instructor insurance quotes over the phone

Average cost: $33 per month 

Our rating: 8/10


Thimble Flight Instructor Insurance

Pros

  • The possibility to buy coverage for your flight instructor business for a brief duration, such as 1 month, 1 day, or even just 1 hour.

  • Numerous add-ons to general liability insurance

  • Offers professional liability insurance as an add-on to general liability insurance

Cons

  • You can’t reach customer service by calling 

Thimble is a reputable provider of flexible and on-demand flight instructor insurance policies. They understand the unique requirements of flight instructors and offer coverage options that can be tailored to meet individual needs. 

Thimble's policies are designed to provide financial protection and peace of mind during flight instruction activities. One of the key advantages of Thimble is its flexibility, allowing flight instructors to obtain coverage for specific time periods or on-demand basis. This enables flight instructors to have insurance precisely when they need it, potentially reducing costs.

Best for: Short-term insurance coverage for flight instructors

Average cost: $36 per month

Our rating: 9/10


Hiscox Flight Instructor Insurance

Pros

  • Extended coverage alternatives to fit your business's needs

  • Worldwide liability coverage

  • 14-day money-back guarantee

  • Competitive pricing and discounts for bundling numerous insurance policies

Cons

  • Online quoting not available all the time due to periodic site maintenance

Hiscox, founded in 1901, is a leading insurance provider offering comprehensive flight instructor insurance policies. They specialize in providing liability coverage specifically designed to protect flight instructors against third-party claims and accidents that may occur during flight instruction sessions. 

With over a century of experience, Hiscox understands the unique risks faced by flight instructors and strives to offer extensive coverage options to ensure adequate protection. Flight instructors can rely on Hiscox's expertise and commitment to providing reliable insurance solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Best for: Medium-sized flight instructor businesses with various insurance needs

Average cost: $34 per month

Our rating: 8/10




AOPA Flight Instructor Insurance 

Pros

  • AOPA Flight Instructor Insurance offers customized coverage to fit the specific needs of flight instructors and flight schools

  • They have significant experience and knowledge in aviation insurance

  • Access to resources

Cons

  • Only available to its members, which may limit its accessibility to some individuals

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, is a well-known aviation organization that also offers various insurance products for pilots and aircraft owners. AOPA's instructor insurance is specifically designed to provide coverage for certified flight instructors and flight schools.

Best for: Certified flight schools and flight instructors 

Average cost: $60 per month

Our rating: 7/10


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