Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are popular and enjoyable to operate. The Federal Aviation Administration estimates there are tens of thousands of drones in the air, making insurance an important consideration for many operators. Learn more about drone and UAV insurance to protect you while you operate.
Why Do You Need Drone and UAV Insurance?
There are relatively few universal regulations for drone operators, but you remain responsible for damage your drone may cause. Liability can arise whether you are an experienced pilot or a beginner and whether your aircraft is remotely piloted, semi-automatic, or fully automatic.
An insurance policy helps cover financial liability, protect your assets, and give you peace of mind if something goes wrong.
What Does Drone and UAV Insurance Cover?
- Hull coverage
- Broad liability coverage
- Legal liability
- Premises liability
- Personal injury
- Medical expenses
- Extra equipment coverage — includes any onboard tools and equipment
- Invasion of privacy
- Non-owned coverage if you operate someone else's drone or UAV
- War perils if your drone sustains damage from a malicious act
Hull coverage pays for damage to or loss of your unmanned drone when the loss occurs within the territory your policy covers. Liability coverage can pay for damage your drone causes to property or people and can defend you if someone files a lawsuit over such damage.
You may be able to customize your policy and choose hull, liability, or both. For operators performing aerial work or photography, see Aerial Photography and Drone Insurance for specialized options.
Where Can You purchase Drone and UAV Insurance?
Start by consulting your general insurance agent or a specialist in drone insurance to find the right coverage for your needs. For businesses that sell or service aerial equipment, consider industry-specific options such as Aerial Lift Dealers Insurance.
If you want an easy way to get started, you can also talk to an agent about quotes and coverage details.
Consider taking a drone training course to learn proper operation, hazard recognition, and maintenance. Better training reduces accident risk and can sometimes lower insurance premiums.
Drone and UAV insurance is an important safeguard if you operate an aircraft; ask your insurance agent about coverage options today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need insurance to fly a drone?
Insurance is not always legally required for recreational flyers, but it is often recommended to protect against liability and property damage, and it may be required for commercial operations.
What is hull coverage?
Hull coverage pays for physical damage to your drone, including repair or replacement costs, subject to the terms and territorial limits of the policy.
Will my homeowner's or renter's policy cover drone incidents?
Some homeowner or renter policies may offer limited liability coverage for small recreational drones, but many exclude commercial use and may not cover hull damage, so check your policy details.
Can I insure a drone I borrow from someone else?
Non-owned coverage can provide protection when you operate someone else's drone, but you should confirm the specific terms and limits with the insurer.