Are You Ready for Your Upcoming Aviation Insurance Renewal?

As the aviation insurance marketplace continues to soften, it’s critical to take advantage of every opportunity to secure the most competitive rate. 

After all, timing and preparation play a bigger role than many owners realize.

Why Timing Matters

Insurance brokers typically send clients renewal forms 60–90 days out. That window is important, but don’t confuse early notice with early submission. 

Brokers need 30–45 days to “work the markets” with updated pilot forms, aircraft valuations, and liability requests.

If you do wait until the last minute, you limit their ability to present your case to underwriters. Instead of multiple competitive bids, you may be left with one or two subpar options.

Pilot Experience and Renewal Leverage

Like most of us, underwriters don’t like guesswork. They want current data on training, time in type, and recent hours flown. This is especially critical if you’re a turbine transition pilot in your first year of ownership.

If you update your broker 60 days out, you might log another 25–30 hours before renewal. That time could push you past milestones—like 100 hours in type—that can influence rates. 

Providing updated hours closer to renewal allows your broker to showcase your most competitive experience level.

How to Help Your Broker Help You

Your broker can’t fight for your best coverage without timely updates. Discuss with them when to submit forms so you balance accuracy with underwriting lead time. For some clients, those extra hours mean little. For newer turbine pilots, they could mean everything.

Final Tips to Save at Insurance Renewal

Based on years of experience, please don’t wait until the last week to update your insurance broker. Procrastination limits your options, adds stress, and may leave you with higher premiums. By arming your broker with updated pilot and aircraft details 30 days before renewal, you’ll maximize your leverage and your rate.

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