Light Sport Aircraft Insurance – Aviation Insurance Resources

Light Sport Aircraft & the Changing Insurance Industry

admin-airpros2018 — Fri, 08 Nov 2019 19:29:53 +0000

It has been one of the most popular hangar topics the past few months; if you or your friends have had an aviation insurance policy renewed this year, you’ve probably noticed an increase. The higher rates are becoming the new normal and along with it, stricter pilot guidelines and training requirements. Many aircraft owners, despite being claim free and flying regularly, are seeing a rate increase of 5-10% or more. Where did this all come from and how do you ensure you have the lowest rate on your light sport aircraft (LSA) going forward?

For the last decade, insurance premiums have been at an all-time low due to carrier competition. Aviation underwriters were all competing for the same group of business and the way to win the account was to provide the lowest rate. With these lower rates, however, the aviation industry didn’t experience any fewer losses, especially with the countless natural disasters experienced recently. As with any business, the rates had to increase in accordance with the outgoing costs.

One route to reducing the amount of aviation accidents and claims is thorough and regular training. While training on an LSA is less rigorous than the annual training required for larger aircraft, it’s important to receive in depth initial training in that aircraft and have a check up on the pilot’s skills beyond the required flight review. Lighter aircraft can be easier to break from something as simple as a hard landing. To mitigate the aviation insurance risk, many underwriters are now requiring stricter initial training if a pilot is new to the aircraft and are expecting to see a certified flight instructor (CFI) experienced in that specific make and model providing the dual instruction.

If you are purchasing a new-to-you LSA, it’s important to come to your aviation insurance broker prepared. Have your CFI picked out ahead of time and their pilot history readily available. This will provide some peace of mind to the underwriter as they’ll already know the experience of the CFI providing the dual instruction that they will ultimately require.

Whether a new purchase or renewing your current LSA aviation insurance policy, it’s important to find a knowledgeable broker with access to all the major aviation insurance markets. As mentioned earlier, competition was the key to the lower rates of the past and still play a major role in keeping your aircraft insurance increase minimal. Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) is an aviation insurance broker where every agent is a licensed pilot. Their piloting experience combined with being appointed with every major aviation insurance carrier provides their customers with comfort knowing they are purchasing the broadest package of coverage at the best available rate.

To learn more about the changing aviation industry and to see how your rates are being affected, call AIR at 301-682-6200 or submit a quote request online today at www.air-pros.com!

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Looking Back on U.S. Sport Aviation Expo 2015

vneuville — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 19:51:13 +0000

The cloudy days did not conceal the shine in the eyes of vendors, manufacturers, dealers and pilots at the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring, Florida last week. Aircraft ranged from Cub Crafters and Legend Cub to the return of Paradise Aircraft and the introduction of the new Groppo Avio Trail. All aspects of light sport aviation were represented at this unique expo.
The mood at the Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) booth was upbeat and positive as we saw an increase in attendance. Numerous pilots were taking advantage of light sport rules and returning to aviation after a long hiatus. Renter pilots were excited to find they could instantly purchase insurance for non-owned light sport aircraft on our website. And a large number of pilots also stopped by to ask questions about amphibious light sport insurance for airplanes like the Searey.
Light sport insurance quote requests included Sonex, Bristell, Tecnam, Evektor, Flight Design, Zenith, Czech Sport and Jabiru aircraft. This proves that enthusiasm for this relatively new aircraft category is still fresh; with many pilots stating the affordability of these aircraft and no need for an aviation medical as reasons why they chose light sport.
New and prospective light sport builders stopped by the AIR booth as well. We offer a builders and restorers insurance program, designed to protect the aircraft during the building or restoring stage regardless of pilot experience and qualifications. Customized with your needs in mind, this policy offers flexible liability and hull coverage options.
To discover more about insuring your light sport aircraft with AIR please contact us by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today to receive an aircraft insurance quote! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+

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New & Easy Insurance for Rotorcraft Renters

vneuville — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 10:00:51 +0000

From survey to rescue uses, to just being able to land in your own backyard, helicopters are useful and enjoyable aerial vehicles. However, it is important that the pilot and their family are properly protected. Helicopter renter pilots can now have peace of mind with simple, easy to start insurance coverage.
What’s Covered
The Starr Aviation non-owned helicopter insurance policy covers your pleasure and business related flying in non-owned, fixed wing and rotor aircraft. The policy provides coverage for non-pressurized land aircraft having a piston powered single engine no more than 450 rated horsepower and no more than 7 total seats. The airplane or helicopter can be certified as standard, experimental, restricted, or light sport! From a Robinson helicopter to a Rotorway, or a Bell, Hughes or Safari, this policy has you covered.
Helicopter Flight Schools
Generally, helicopter flight schools have large deductibles. Therefore, it is beneficial for a helicopter flight school to require non-owned rotorcraft insurance of its student and renter pilots. This insurance not only protects the renter pilot, but also the flight school’s deductible and loss of use.
Instant Quote and Coverage
Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) understands how busy life can be. Items such as helicopter renter’s insurance often get buried deep in to-do lists, which may become forgotten until it’s too late. That is why AIR, along with Starr Aviation, is happy to offer an instant quote and ability to purchase coverage online. After purchasing, a copy of your payment and binder confirmation will arrive in your inbox giving you a piece of mind the next time you fly. Simply click here to get started.

About Starr Aviation
With each team member, on average, enjoying over 15 years of aviation insurance experience, Starr Aviation is highly competent, allowing us to be a major provider of insurance for varying aircraft hull & liability risks. Starr offers comprehensive coverage for an extensive range of aircraft hull and liability exposure and our experienced underwriters develop programs tailored to each of these specific risks, including fixed and rotor wing aircraft for both commercial and corporate operations.
About Aviation Insurance Resources
Aviation Insurance Resources provides a full range of aircraft insurance and aviation insurance products to clients of all sizes. AIR represents all of the major insurance markets and offers the broadest package of protection and the best available rates. To learn more about the Aviation Insurance Resources and non-owned rotorcraft insurance please call 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today and receive your aircraft insurance quote! You can also follow AIR on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

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Aviation Insurance Resources to Attend Midwest LSA Expo

vneuville — Wed, 03 Sep 2014 10:00:45 +0000

For three days each year, Mt. Vernon Outland Airport (MVN) in Mt. Vernon, IL becomes the mecca for light sport aircraft (LSA). September 4^th through 6^th marks the dates for the 6^th annual Plane & Pilot Midwest LSA Expo inviting sport pilots, LSA manufacturers and aviation enthusiasts alike to enjoy informative workshops, light sport related exhibitors and enjoyable airport nightlife! Most of all, the entire event is FREE to attend and parking for cars and aircraft are free as well!
Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) is delighted to attend this small but mighty expo again. You can meet AIR agent and pilot Gregg Ellsworth inside the expo exhibitor area.
“I enjoy exhibiting at the Midwest LSA Expo in Mt Vernon, IL. I was the first exhibitor to register for this event and I have attended every year. The Airport Manager, Staff, Volunteers, and community are GREAT! If you haven’t attended this show, I encourage you to attend. You won’t find a better place or opportunity to spend quality time with the aircraft dealers and exhibitors. If you’re thinking of buying a light sport aircraft or just curious….this is the event to attend.”
For more information on attending the Plane & Pilot Midwest LSA Expo, please visit their website at: MidwestLSAShow.com.
Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) Insurance from Aviation Insurance Resources
From the inception of light sport certification, AIR has been providing sport and more advanced rated pilots with light sport aircraft insurance policies with broad terms and at competitive premiums. AIR covers the insured every step of the way, offering builders risk policies during the constructions process regardless of pilot experience.
To see how AIR can help you with your LSA insurance needs, please call 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today and receive your aircraft insurance quote! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

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AIR to Z: Zenith Aircraft Insurance

vneuville — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 10:00:54 +0000

With a resume that includes work on the Concorde jetliner and the Dash 7 commuter, aircraft designer Chris Heintz spent his time outside of work developing original kit aircraft of his own in his garage. These designs soon broke through into the aviation world as the Zenith Aircraft Company, offering diverse experimental and light sport (LSA) aircraft. To date, over 2,000 Zenith Aircraft kits have been sold and delivered.
Zenith Aircraft Models
STOL CH750 – Light Sport Utility

A side by side tri-gear aircraft featuring wrap around visibility and bush aircraft capabilities

Zenith CH750 Cruzer

The all metal “on airport” version of the STOL CH750 and an economical choice for cross country flights.

STOL CH701

A light sport short take-off and landing (STOL) machine! Rotating speed can begin and 25mph and depart in only 90 feet.

Zenith 601 and Zenith CH650

A low wing in LSA in the Zodiac line of Zenith Aircraft, the CH601s and CH650s appeals to sport pilots looking for an affordable and sleek aircraft.

Zenith CH801-HD

A four seat “heavy duty” utility model of Zenith Aircraft featuring and 180 horsepower engine. The CH801-HD has been nicknamed the “Sky Jeep”.

The Zenith Aircraft Factory
Zenith kits have been known to be completed within only 400 hours. Builders looking to learn all about constructing their own Zenith can stop by the factory in Mexico, Missouri to learn all about building the STOL CH750, CH750 Cruzer, CH701 and CH650 aircraft. The factory also opens its doors for the annual Open Hangar Day and Zenith/Zodiac fly-in.
For more about the Zenith Aircraft Company visit their website at Zenithair.com.
Zenith Aircraft Insurance
Light sport aircraft are relatively new to the aviation industry. When it came time to insuring these aircraft, Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) was at the forefront and one of the first in the industry to offer insurance on many LSA makes and models, from Czech Sportcruiser to Cubcrafters Carbon Cub to Flight Design CT, Evektor, Tecnam, Bristell, Cessna Skycatcher 162, BushCat, and of course, Zenith Aircraft. We offer several different insurance policies to help protect you and your aircraft.
Each year, AIR agent and pilot Gregg Ellsworth enjoys talking with sport pilots and Zenith airplane owners at the Midwest LSA expo in Mt. Vernon, IL and the U.S Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring, FL.
“While I insure most aviation risks, I like working with Zenith Aircraft builders and owners as well as other experimental kit aircraft makes and models. I enjoy working with each builder/owner because every risk is unique and I take the time to ensure I understand their individual coverage needs from the start of construction, to first flight and beyond. I work hard to provide the best premium and best coverage terms available. I always l ask what engine they have installed in their bird along with if they have had any major modifications completed, such as the wing mod.”
Builders Risk Insurance
AIR also offers a builders and restorers insurance program, designed to protect the aircraft during the building or restoring stage regardless of pilot experience and qualifications. Customized with your needs in mind, this new insurance plan offers flexible liability and hull coverage options.
“As a friend of many aircraft builders and as a homebuilt owner myself, I cannot imagine the devastation of losing an aircraft mid-build,” said Jon Harden, president and founder of AIR. “Our affordable program is worth it just for the peace of mind.”
To discover more about insuring your Zenith Aircraft, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today to receive an aircraft insurance quote! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+

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AIR Agents to Attend U.S. Sport Aviation Expo

vneuville — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 15:58:20 +0000

Time flies and especially for pilots! It is time again for light sport aircraft enthusiasts to gather in sunny Florida for the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo! Whether you fly in or drive in, are a present light sport owner or just looking, the Expo has something for everyone.
The U.S. Sport Aviation Expo kicks off this Thursday, January 16^th and continues throughout the weekend. Each day, attendees can participate in aviation workshops and forums and other activities. Enjoy performances by the Flying Musicians and stop by Show Center at 1:30 to see which keynote speaker is featured. Next enjoy the manufacturers showcase and an airshow at the Main Stage. It all ends Sunday at 2:30pm with awards, prizes and the 4^th Annual Sebring Send-Off to the Bahamas!
From the Seaplane Base to the Main Stage, Aviation Insurance Resources agents Chris Wolbert and Joe Cacho will be on the grounds of the Expo this week. They are looking forward to sharing their knowledge of LSA aircraft insurance, meeting new friends and catching up with current customers.

What is a Light Sport Aircraft?
Light Sport Aircraft include everything from tail draggers and tri gear to Floatplanes and Amphibians. So what actually qualifies as a Light Sport Aircraft? According to the FAA, requirements include:
1. The aircraft has a single, non-turbine engine
2. The aircraft has fixed landing gear
3. The aircraft holds a maximum of two occupants
4. The aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of 1,320 lbs.
5. The aircraft has a 45-knot clean stall speed
6. The aircraft has a 120-knot top speed at maximum continuous power

Light Sport Aircraft Insurance from Aviation Insurance Resources
Licensed in all 50 states, AIR provides a wide range of aircraft insurance options for aircraft of all makes and models, from Light Sport Aircraft to large jets. AIR offers insurance on several LSA makes and models including, but not limited to: BushCat, Flight Design CT , Czech Sportcruiser, Cubcrafters, Carbon Cub, Evektor, Tecnam, Cessna Skycatcher 162, Bristell, and more!
If you need assistance in understanding Light Sport Aircraft insurance or wish to find out what aviation insurance discounts are available, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today and receive a free Aircraft insurance quote!
You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Google+.

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Understanding Light Sport Aircraft

vneuville — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 15:33:55 +0000

by Victoria Neuville
From: Aviation Digest; January 2014
Excitement. Travel. Freedom. These are all words many pilots use to describe what it is like to fly. Today, there is a plethora of aircraft options tailored to fit these descriptions and the needs of each and every pilot. In 2004, the FAA added a new category of aircraft: Light Sport Aircraft, or LSA. By adding this category, a new genre of pilot certification was also introduced, the sport pilot. Reduced training minimums and removing medical requirements allowed many pilots to take to the air again, or for the first time. These breakthrough additions were not popular at first, but are gaining momentum now more than ever.
Inexpensive. Advanced. No medical required. These are some of the many reasons pilots list regarding their decision to purchase or rent a light sport aircraft. What qualifies as a light sport aircraft? The aircraft must meet several requirements to include: a two seat maximum, a maximum take-off weight of 1,320 pounds and a 45 knot clean (no flaps extended) stall speed. In addition, the aircraft must have a single, non-turbine engine and fixed landing gear. Requirements can differ for amphibious LSAs.
While several new models have entered production to specifically fit these requirements, many vintage and other standard category aircraft have also been able to squeeze into this category. Many Aeronca and Taylorcraft airplanes are able to fly under light sport rules. Another popular existing model is the Piper Cub.
LSA pilots, like the aircraft they fly, must meet certain requirements, although these are a bit more relaxed compared to the private pilot certificate. A major benefit to the sport pilot rating is that an aviation medical certificate is not required: A valid driver’s license will do. However, if you have been previously declined a medical by the FAA, you may not fly under sport pilot rules until the medical situation has been reviewed. In addition, the Code of Federal Regulations 61.23(b) states “a person shall not act as pilot in command, or in any other capacity as a required pilot flight crewmember, while that person knows or has reason to know of any medical condition that would make the person unable to operate the aircraft in a safe manner.” When in doubt if you are able to fly legally under sport pilot rules, consult your physician.
Earning a sport pilot certificate is cost effective as minimum flight training time for sport pilots is 20 hours, versus the 40 hours required for a private pilot. An FAA sport pilot knowledge test and practical exam are also required. However, a sport pilot certificate does have its limitations. All flights must be conducted in day visual flight rules (or VFR) conditions. Flights also cannot be performed for hire or for business use. Sport pilots wishing to become sport flight instructors must complete the fundamentals of instruction training and knowledge test, as well as a sport pilot instruction written test and practical flight. Additionally, they must have five hours experience in the make and model aircraft before giving dual instruction. Pilots who are already flight instructors may instruct in sport planes without any additional FAA requirements.
Ease. Experience. One call. With the dawn of the light sport market came the need for LSA specific insurance products. Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) was quick to provide a variety of options to suit their needs.
Aircraft insurance is available on many levels for light sport aircraft. At a minimum coverage for bodily injury and proper damage is available, often known as “liability only”. For those wishing to protect the hull of the aircraft, physical damage is also available. There are several options available for the hull coverage, first being full, in-flight coverage. Others include ground-not-in-motion or ground and taxi only coverage.
These products can protect LSAs categorized as standard certified LSAs as well as amateur built (experimental) LSAs. For those constructing their own amateur built LSA or restoring a vintage classic, builders risk policies are available during the process, regardless of piloting experience. For those who chose to rent versus purchase their very own LSA, non-owned, or renters insurance, is also available and covers flying an LSA aircraft.
When contacting your insurance agent for a policy on an aircraft you own, it is helpful to have some information handy. First being aircraft information, such as N#, make and model, and the hull value you are considering. Next, flying history on the pilots that will be flying the aircraft is needed. This includes full names, age, and ratings. An estimate of flight times, specifically, time in the make and model of aircraft being insured and time flown in the last 12 months will also be requested.
Kyle Grim, the owner of a Rans S7 LSA recently stated, “I love my LSA’s unique capabilities and was impressed how easily AIR was able to understand what I need in insurance to ensure my piece of mind.”
To keep more cash in your wallet for avgas, there are several opportunities for insurance discounts. Be sure to inform your agent if your aircraft is kept in a hangar at your airport base: Many times discounts are available for keeping it safely tucked away. Members of aviation organizations such as AOPA and EAA can also receive extra insurance perks and discounts through certain insurance carriers. Be sure to have your organization member number handy when shopping for an insurance quote. Some carriers offer up to 5% off non-owned coverage for those that complete a WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program phase prior to their renewal. Others offer discounts on owned aircraft policies when a WINGS phase or annual recognized training is completed.
Whatever words you chose to use to describe your passion for flight or your type of aircraft, safety and peace of mind are words you cannot ignore. The agents at AIR will be happy to help you find an insurance package that is right for you as you navigate the new world of light sport aircraft so you can focus on the words that mean the most to you.

AIR offers a wide range of aircraft insurance options for aircraft of all makes and models, not just light sport! From experimental aircraft to standard aircraft, such as Cessna Aircraft, Beechcraft, and Cirrus Aircraft to Robinson Helicopters, builders risk insurance, and Corporate Aircraft. AIR works with ALL the major aviation insurance markets and can help you find aircraft insurance discounts.

Click Here for a FREE Aircraft Insurance Quote!

To find out more about when your own quote will be ready, please contact Aviation Insurance Resources by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today to receive your free Aircraft insurance quote!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Google+.

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Aviation Insurance Resources Attends the SUN 'n FUN International Fly-In & Expo

vneuville — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:55:55 +0000

Last week, Aviation Insurance Resources president Jon Harden and agent Joe Cacho attended the 39^th Annual SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, Florida from April 9-14. Sun ‘n Fun was founded in 1974 and attracts plane owner-pilots from across the United States and Canada. The Fly-In, & Expo presented by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, is the 2nd largest airshow in the world, with more than 200,000 attendees, 500 exhibitors, workshops and forums, and, of course, more than 4,500 aircraft, ranging from homebuilt aircraft to ex-military aircraft.
“We had good weather but light attendance in the early part of the week,” said Harden. “We saw some new aircraft entering the LSA market. We talked with manufactures, importers and dealers about helping them insure their new LSA aircraft. We are very excited about being able to help them to get approval from insurance markets in the US.”
Light Sport Aircraft Insurance from Aviation Insurance Resources
Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) provides a wide range of aircraft insurance options for aircraft of all types and uses, from large jets to Light Sport Aircraft (LSA). Licensed in all 50 states, AIR offers insurance on most LSA makes and models, from Czech Sportcruiser to Cubcrafters Carbon Cub to Flight Design CT, Evektor, Tecnam, Bristell, Cessna Skycatcher 162, and more.
To find out more about SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo or Light Sport Aircraft Insurance from Aviation Insurance Resources, please contact AIR by calling 877-247-7767 or visit AIR-PROS.com today and receive a free Aircraft insurance quote! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Google+.

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