Essential coverage
Insuring an aircraft in Europe rests on two pillars: liability insurance, compulsory in all EU countries under Regulation (EC) No 785/2004, and hull insurance for the aircraft itself, optional but strongly recommended once the aircraft's value exceeds a few tens of thousands of euros.
Additional options are often added to these two coverages: personal accident cover for pilot and passengers, legal protection, search and rescue cost cover, or "loss of licence" cover for professional pilots.
Aviation liability insurance
This covers damage caused to third parties (on the ground and passengers) in the event of an accident. The minimum coverage amount is set by EU regulation according to the aircraft's maximum take-off weight (MTOW) — the heavier the aircraft, the higher the minimum required cover.
Hull insurance
This covers physical damage to the aircraft itself: accident, fire, hail, theft. The premium amount depends on the insured value, the type of aircraft, the pilot's experience and the aircraft's usual parking location.
Two formulas exist: "ground and flight" cover (comprehensive) and "ground only" cover, which is cheaper and useful during a period when the aircraft is grounded or for sale.
Average costs by category
| Category | Indicative annual premium (liability + hull) |
|---|---|
| Single-engine light aircraft | €800 to €3,000 |
| Turboprop | €3,000 to €12,000 |
| Business jet | €15,000 to €60,000 depending on value |
| Recreational helicopter | €2,500 to €8,000 |
| Microlight | €300 to €900 |
What affects the premium
- Pilot experience — total hours, hours on type, ratings (IFR, multi-engine).
- Declared use — private, instruction, rental, aerial work: each use has its own rate.
- Parking — enclosed hangar or outdoor parking, controlled or uncontrolled airfield.
- Geographic area — Europe, Mediterranean basin or worldwide.
- Deductible — a higher deductible reduces the premium, provided you can afford it.
Choosing the right insurer
Favour a broker specialising in general aviation, able to compare several insurers (AIG Aviation, Allianz Aviation, and similar specialist providers in your country). Check that the policy properly covers your actual use (private, instruction, rental) and your flying area (Europe, worldwide).