Hello Mechanics and Pilots.  My name is Al and in 38 years of aviation I have seen a zillion ways to wreck up a perfectly good day.  Thank God so much attention is dedicated to safe flight and preventing accidents to preserve life.  With all of that research I would think I don’t have much to add so I think I would like to share a few stories that would help focus on good practices that simply prevent damage and save money.

Today is a great day to do anything other than need an engine repair or overhaul.  My goodness, please do your best to preserve your engine.  Parts have long lead times and somehow engines that were $35,000 are suddenly $65,000.  I know of two engines this year that did not need repair and somehow very qualified guys managed to make sure they wound up getting that attention.  Their silly actions ate up available parts and took insurance money from the pool.

The first story is of an A&P with many years experience.  Gray hair and the ability to fix just about anything.  He was tasked with fixing a transient Cessna 210 that landed on his field with an alternator failure.  Lots of issues with internal drive alternators can be discussed another day.  The mechanic troubleshot the alternator and like so many airplane problems this one went away and came back.  Oh that is frustrating.  The mechanic thought it was fixed, the owner showed up, it did not work, owner left disappointed, blah, blah, blah.  Ever seen that before? Oh yea, and I’m sure somewhere in all that there was a bunch of concern for all of the time and parts money spent to still have a broken plane.  So the mechanic continued his work and eventually felt good that the root cause of the intermittent charging situation was resolved.  He called the owner and with confidence he touted the skill he had and used to uncover the rare situation.  The owner was unconvinced.  That frustrated the mechanic so he decided to jump in the plane and facetime the owner and run the engine.  Somehow the mechanic with so much experience left the tow bar and tug installed.  Huh, that seems lazy.  No problem.  The prop cleared the tow bar just fine.  I guess he checked that.  He started the engine and proved that the alternator worked.  The owner was still skeptical since it was an intermittent problem and this frustrated the mechanic.  To prove it was finally fixed the mechanic let the engine warm up and then pushed the throttle forward.  Yep.  Hold the brakes, push the throttle forward and guess what is next.  The nose settled and the prop no longer cleared the tow bar.  Poor tow bar.  It did not deserve the beating it took.  I was hired to swap the prop and perform a ferry inspection.

Second story was even better!  It worked out just fine for me because it resulted in an aircraft sale and I made a commission.  However it was just another waste of money and certainly affected our premiums. Some of this story is based on assumptions and heck just simply made up since the story was told to me and I am repeating it.  This is a father and son team.  They had a very expensive high wing Cessna and are both are pilots. Father asked the son to get the 182 out and make it ready to fly.  I guess dad was running behind, in a hurry, or just in a habit of delegating.  We can talk about the dangerous affect of being in a hurry some other day.  So the plane is out, preflighted, and dad is told this.  Dad pulls up to the hangar and knowing that his son handled the chore he jumps in the cockpit from the back where he parked.  Normal start and taxi. Just uneventful.  Normal run up, mag check, etc.  Entered the runway, pushed the power forward and accelerated down the runway.  Upon reaching rotate speed the nose lifted and then it happened.  What an amazing event it must have been.  When the nose lifted the tow bar dug into the runway and tore off the nose gear.  My goodness that must have been one heck of a scary moment!  The pilot confirmed his situation after stabilizing flight by circling the runway to see his nose gear on the ground.  One great landing later the aircraft is determined to be repairable and everyone is safe.  However the 3 bladed prop and engine are now another unnecessary burden on the production system.

I have seen more than a dozen tow bar damage issues so I have a rule I follow and everyone in my shop follows.  Very simply stated “if the tow bar leaves your hand (or control) you disconnect it from the aircraft”.  This is done every time.  Even if it is for just one second.  It does not matter.  With cell phones, busy lives, multitasking, emergency bathroom breaks, or just a beautiful person walking by can make you completely forget about that $50,000 tow bar.

I don’t want to diffuse the importance of taking off the tow bar but there are a couple other practices I use that are related to avoiding this situation along with other problems.  Before operating the airplane the PIC must walk around the plane one last time just before getting in the cockpit even if a full inspection was just completed.  Secondly, before starting the engine I put my hand on the start mechanism, I look out the left window (even though I can not see anything of significance) and say, “no tow bars, chocks, or tiedowns” then I wait 2 seconds thinking, and only then turn the key or push the button.

Save your money for gas or to install another magenta line device for the instrument panel and remove your tow every time it leaves your hand.

Al Morvin

Pilots Ally Aircraft Maintenance

38 years in aviation

By the way this is just a story to help save money.  If you think I am talking about you then look in the mirror and say 3 times “I will always remove the tow bar as soon as I let go of it”.  Other than that I am claiming this is a story of complete fiction and not made to embarrass anyone especially you.

The post Accident Prevention – Tow Bars appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

2019 marked a significant increase in insurance rates due to the hardening market after over a decade of low rates due to all the industry competition. In addition to rate hikes, stricter underwriting guidelines were imposed in many areas. While 2022 showed signs of rate increases starting to plateau, the effects from the Boeing 737 Maxx losses estimated at $3 billion are starting to trickle down into the general aviation segment. In addition, aircraft confiscated in Russia due to war sanctions could cost the industry an estimate of $11 billion only adds to the reinsurer burden.

Not only aviation losses cause insurance rates to increase. Natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and fires all contribute to the reinsurance rates. Inflation has also become a current factor, affecting parts and labor costs for claims. As a result of increased reinsurance rates, we expect aviation premiums to climb another 15-25% as their treaties are renegotiated.

While the increased rates are the ‘new normal’ compared to just over a decade ago, being proactive can minimize the impact. Be prepared and start early! Upon request, gather all the required information for renewal and return it promptly to your insurance agent. Often, complex policies cannot be quoted through a simple algorithm and may require a stream of communication between the underwriter and agent prior to formalizing a quote.

While rates are increasing across the board, there is still competition amongst the aviation insurance carriers. Working with an agency such as Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) who is appointed by all the major aviation insurance markets will provide access to all the quotes available on your aviation risk. All the agents at AIR are pilots and specialize solely in aviation related policies. To learn more about your upcoming aviation insurance renewal or purchase call us at 301-682-6200 or request an insurance quote online today!

The post New Year, New Aircraft Insurance Rates appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

I remember my first Cirrus flight like it was yesterday. It was just before I moved to Maryland to work for Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) in 2010. I was training for my commercial pilot certificate and my CFI managed a fleet of Cirrus SR22s under an aircraft share program. I hopped along for a ride where we had to drop something off at Burke Lakefront, followed by a quick hop over to Put in Bay Island for lunch. The sparkling waters over Lake Erie were the perfect setting for an introduction to Cirrus Aircraft. I was amazed by the aircraft’s smooth handling on the ground, the comfort of the interior design and all the safety features within the avionics. Since that flight over a decade ago I have taken flight in several SR22s, and they remain a favorite of mine to fly and insure.

The first Cirrus hit the market in 1995 turning heads with its luxurious style and groundbreaking airframe parachute system. As with any new aircraft to the industry, insurance rates were steep at the beginning, especially before the introduction of their Cirrus Embark training program and Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilots (CSIPS). Prices slowly dropped due to more insurance carriers adding the Cirrus to their list of insurable aircraft. The industry is cyclical, and prices have risen about 30% over the past two years due to the recent hardening of the insurance market.

Due to the high-performance nature and advanced avionics of Cirrus Aircraft, aviation insurance underwriters prefer to see pilots that have an instrument rating and several hundred hours total time. However, pilots transitioning to the Cirrus or even student pilots can get insurance. Premiums will be higher the first year, but Cirrus owners will have the benefit of training in the specific aircraft they own, versus spending extra funds renting, then buying.

Flight schools have learned the benefits of having a Cirrus on their fleet as well. I personally insure several Cirrus Training Centers (CTCs) and am happy to see my clients grow as a result of having Cirrus in their fleet. Keep in mind that when adding a Cirrus to your fleet, the aviation insurance underwriters require a CSIP or training center instructor designation for those providing instruction in those aircraft.

Whether you are purchasing or renting a Cirrus Aircraft, or perhaps running a CTC, AIR has the aviation insurance solution for you. To request a quote from one of our pilots/insurance agents call 301-682-6200 or visit CirrusAircraftInsurance.com today!

The post Cirrus Aircraft Insurance – Where we are Today appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

Before accepting an insurance quote, be sure that your school of choice is approved by that insurance carrier or request a list of them to choose from. Each insurance company maintains their own unique approved schools lists for each make and model aircraft based on their criteria for the school’s syllabus and flight simulators. Most carriers accept the big-name schools such as Flight Safety and CAE with full motion simulators. In fact, many insurance companies only accept full motion simulations versus in-aircraft training due to a variety of emergency scenarios that can be practiced within a safe environment.

Your training requirements should be listed on your aircraft insurance quote or on the pilot endorsement section of your policy. On a case-by-case basis, an underwriter may approve training not on their list when supplied with a detailed syllabus and school details.

For dual crew aircraft it is now commonplace for both the pilot in command and second in command to complete annual approved training. Since the insurance market hardening in 2020, a special emphasis has been placed on yearly training in response to rising claims costs due to pilot error. After completion of your training each year, supply a copy of the training certificate to your aircraft insurance broker to create a more seamless renewal process.

Whether you own an aircraft that requires annual training or not, Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) is your one stop shop for the most competitive aircraft insurance policies. To get started on your aircraft insurance policy give one of our pilots and agents a call at 301-682-6200 or request a quote online today!

The post Aircraft Insurance: Where You Train Matters appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

While it’s easy to start a policy and renew as-is each year, a quick Aircraft Bluebook valuation can determine if your aircraft is underinsured. Aircraft insurance policies are a stated value, meaning if you had a total loss, you receive a check for that stated value, minus any deductible. While insurance policies are renewed on an annual basis, you may increase your aircraft value at any time for a pro-rata additional premium. Some underwriters will request justification for the value, especially if upgrades carry it above base Bluebook. It is best to have handy your engine time, airframe time, and any avionics, interior, or paint updates for your agent to justify the new hull.

While you may save premium by underinsuring your aircraft, you are at risk for a constructive total loss. A constructive total loss is when the cost to repair the aircraft plus the salvage value of the damaged aircraft exceeds its insured hull value. The aircraft owner is left with two choices: to accept the claims check that will not be enough for an apples-to-apples comparable new aircraft or buy back the salvage now belonging to the insurance carrier and have the aircraft fixed.

Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR) is an insurance agency specializing in aircraft insurance. All our agents are pilots. To receive an competitive aircraft insurance quote, or to inquire if you should be increasing your hull value on your aircraft insurance policy, call us today at 301-682-6200 and put your mind at ease.

The post Is Your Aircraft Insured for What It’s Worth? appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

As a part of that preparation of the claim payment process, claim handlers need to verify the aircraft’s ownership status with the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) Aircraft Registry. If there is a total loss, a title search may also be ordered.

These steps are taken to ensure that the policyholder and all other parties with financial interest in the aircraft are accounted for in the loss payment. There are several scenarios that can create challenges for claim handlers when preparing loss payments and there is a problem in ownership determination, including:

• An individual is the named insured, but the FAA Registry lists a corporation as the owner.
• A corporation is the named insured, but the FAA Registry lists an individual as the owner.
• The aircraft was recently sold and the names of the insured and registered owner are different.
• An additional party is shown in the title report as having financial interest in the aircraft. This is typically due to a lien not having been properly released by the financial institution.

Scenarios such as those can delay the payment of the claim, which is why having the proper documentation ready is so important.

Be Prepared to Prove Aircraft Ownership

If you have an aircraft owners insurance policy, having your documentation ready before a loss can help you avoid these types of issues when making a claim. There are several simple things aircraft owners can do to get prepared in advance, such as:

• Early Documentation – Do not wait until a loss occurs to get started. Documentation of ownership should begin as early as the purchase of the aircraft and sometimes even earlier. You can order a title search to bring to light any potential title issues prior to purchase of an aircraft. Even if you have already owned the aircraft for a while, a title search now will allow you to uncover any issues.
• Maintain Contacts – If at all possible, you should keep the contact information of the previous owner of your aircraft, and ensure that your aviation insurance broker is aware of any party besides the named insured that also has financial interest in the aircraft.
• Keep Financial Records – Keeping financial records and copies that prove aircraft ownership is paramount. As a general rule, you should keep copies of the following: bill of sale, application for registration, copies of communications with the FAA’s Aircraft Registration Branch, lien release documents from financial institutions, and any other corporate documents.

Aviation Insurance Resources

Proper preparation can give you peace of mind in the unfortunate event of an aircraft accident or incident. At AIR, we have a team of highly skilled aviation insurance specialists in our corner ready to help. Contact us today to learn more about aircraft owners insurance, loss payments, proving ownership, and more.

The post Aircraft Owners Insurance: Loss Payments & Proving Ownership appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

Here are the top four causes of commercial aviation accidents:

• Pilot Error – Everyone makes mistakes, and pilots are no exception, that is why the leading cause of commercial airline accidents is due to pilot error. These errors may include failure to monitor a plane’s position, misreading maps, etc.
• Air Traffic Controller (ATC) Error – ATC and other ground workers are important in ensuring the safety of flights and passengers. Errors made by ground controllers and ATCs may result in collisions or other serious accidents.
• Weather Issues – Hazardous weather conditions such as strong winds, low visibility, and lightning can make it difficult for pilots to control aircrafts and land safely.
• Mechanical Failures – Mechanical failures can happen at any time, which can cause a plan to crash or experience issues on the ground or in flight.

At Aviation Insurance Resources, we are proud to offer comprehensive and affordable commercial aviation insurance to aircraft companies across the nation. Fully staffed by a team of aviation insurance specialists, we understand the unique needs of aviation business owners, enabling us to help companies find the ideal commercial aviation insurance solutions needed to keep their fleet and property protected from all angles.

From flight schools, charter operations, maintenance shops, and more, we specialize in all commercial aviation coverage solutions. Get in touch with us today to get a quote on commercial aviation insurance for your business or institution.

The post Commercial Aviation Insurance: Top Causes of Commercial Aviation Accidents appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

Hangarkeepers insurance is a unique type of general liability coverage designed to protect you for aircraft in your business’ care. But let’s explore general liability coverage further, how does it really protect aviation business owners? Read on to find out:

• Slip & Fall Accidents – General liability insurance protection ensures the protection of hangar owners by providing coverage in the event of a slip, fall, or other accident that may occur on company property.

• Products and Completed Operations Liability – This form of insurance covers liability claims for bodily injury and property damage caused by services and products performed on an aircraft.

• Hangarkeepers Liability – An important part of general liability, hangarkeepers liability protects aviation business owners from a range of liability risks including physical damages, loss of use, etc.

• Legal Liability – Keep your legal liability protected with this general liability insurance coverage option that covers legal expenses and defends you for claims filed against you or your company.

At Aviation Insurance Resources, we proudly provide general liability coverage, such as hangarkeepers insurance coverage, to all 50 states. Protecting your liability as an aviation business owner, we ensure that you are protected in the event of an accident or incident that occurs within your hangar. General liability coverage may include coverage for loss of use, physical damages, and/or diminution of value coverage.

Working with the nation’s top aviation insurance carriers, we offer our clients a wide range of general liability insurance coverage options that match their unique needs and requirements. With a fully staffed team of pilot insurance agents, we understand the risks you are up against and do our part to help you find the hangarkeepers insurance and other general liability coverage needed to safeguard those risks and your liability. Get in touch with us today to get an insurance quote!

The post Four Ways in Which General Liability Insurance Can Protect Hangarkeepers appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

If you are looking to get the most from your aviation insurance policy, then working with an aviation insurance specialist is the best way to ensure that you get the comprehensive coverage you deserve.

While working with an agent is the best way to get what you need, it is also important to understand your policy, which is why we are sharing this brief list of the most common aviation insurance acronyms for your reference:

Deductibles

• NIM (Not in Motion) – NIM is a type of deductible that applies when your aircraft is damaged when not in motion.
• IM (In Motion) – This deductible applies when your aircraft is damaged while flying or taxiing.
• RIM (Rotors in Motion) – RIM is the same as IM, but for helicopters.

Pilot Experience

• TT (Total Time) – TT is the sum of the pilot’s flight time logged in all categories (Pilot in Command, Solo, Second in Command, Simulated/Actual Instrument, etc.)
• MM (Make and Model) – MM refers to the make and model of the aircraft in question.
• RG (Retractable Gear) – RG refers to the retractable gear aircraft.
• ME (Multi Engine) – A multi engine, abbreviated to ME.
• TW (Tail Wheel) – Tail wheel, referred to as TW, is a common policy abbreviation, also referred to as conventional gear.

At Aviation Insurance Resources, we are proud to offer a wide range of aviation insurance policies to all 50 states. Providing aviation insurance and products to clients of all sizes, we work with you to find the ideal coverage that matches your needs and exceeds your expectations. Not captive to a single aviation insurance carrier, we represent all of the top aviation insurance markets, enabling us to offer you the comprehensive protection you require at a price you deserve.

In addition to offering you the most practical aviation coverage, we are dedicated to providing our clients unparalleled customer service. When you choose Aviation Insurance Resources you are more than a client, you are a part of the family! Get in touch with us today to get a quote on aviation insurance coverage.

The post Aviation Insurance Acronym Cheat Sheet appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.

This article is reposted in partnership with Yodice Associates. To view their post please click here.

The post Pilot-Counsel: LOW FLIGHT: A CASE STUDY appeared first on Aviation Insurance Resources.