Someone once said that aviation is one of the safest modes of transportation, but it is also one of the least forgiving of error. As a result, insurance is there, so we can share our small risk with many.

Aviation insurance is not like auto insurance, where you just call a few brokers and get quotes. Some insurance, like Avemco, can be bought direct. The rest is best bought through a special "aviation broker", who can accurately present the "risk" to one of a handful of underwriters, who specialize in aircraft insurance. You can go to this "aviation broker" directly or have your usual insurance broker contact one on your behalf.

Because of this, aviation underwriters only quote a given "risk" once! So, we recommend interviewing several "aviation brokers"; tell them your story and get theirs, too! Select the one, who you feel will best represent your risk to the underwriters. An inadequate risk presentation can result in either a premium that is too high, or even the inability to get insurance at any price. It can also result in a premium that is low, but requires a highly rated pilot, experience restrictions and recurrent training costs that may be more than is acceptable.

The proper insurance package and premium will be one where:

• the risk is properly understood and accurately presented.
• the appropriate training program is customized just for your plane and your situation.
• the experience levels are satisfactory to your planned use of the plane.
• the best aviation broker and aviation underwriter are working in your best interests, not just trying to make a low premium bid to get your business.

A good "aviation broker" can also assist you in insuring those who will ride on your plane, especially employees, who may be required to do so.