Aviation

Specialized insurance and risk management solutions for U.S. airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers, and the broader aviation industry

Aviation

Specialized insurance coverage and risk management solutions for the full spectrum of aviation & aerospace operations

Aviation operators are navigating a risk environment that is more complex and fast-moving than almost any other industry.

The United States operates the world’s largest and most complex aviation market, spanning major network carriers, ultra-low-cost airlines, regional operators, corporate flight departments, charter companies, fixed-base operators (FBOs), MRO providers, and aerospace manufacturers. U.S. aviation businesses face intense regulatory scrutiny from the FAA and DOT while managing high-value, complex risk exposures that few other industries can match. 

As aviation operators face this environment, they need more than transactional insurance placement. They need specialists who understand the demands of the industry and can advocate for them at every stage of risk. Howden's U.S. Aviation Practice is designed to address industry challenges directly, pairing high-level technical expertise with the service standards that clients deserve. 

Global reach and local expertise

We work as a single team without borders. No matter where your business is, we will devise a risk strategy that ensures you get the best possible coverage. Our team of 70+ global aviation specialists, including dedicated U.S.-based brokers, brings the depth of a world-leading aviation practice to every client engagement. Howden's aviation specialists bring decades of sector expertise and a truly global platform — so wherever you operate and however intricate your exposures, we understand what's at stake.

Comprehensive, end-to-end risk management solutions

Howden brings together technical expertise and industry experience across insurance placement, risk advisory, and claims support, serving the full breadth of the aviation ecosystem. We combine experience from across the aviation industry including pilots, lawyers, underwriters, claims advocates and industry broking talent. Our team of industry specialists work as an extension of your business, providing strategic guidance, practical resources and hands-on support at every stage of your operation.

Leveraging global resources to deliver tailored coverage options

We leverage the strength of our relationships with aviation insurers worldwide, our extensive broking expertise, and global network of industry professionals to provide clients access to capacity, more choice, and ultimately superior cover. Wherever you are, and however complex your aviation insurance requirements, we can develop a solution specifically tailored to your needs. 
 

The Aviation Insurance Products we offer include

  • Commercial Airplane

    Aircraft hull and liability insurance

    All-risks hull coverage combined with comprehensive aviation liability including passenger bodily injury, third-party property damage, and personal injury for U.S. airlines, lessors, and aircraft owners of all fleet sizes.

  • Wing of commercial plane at sunset

    Comprehensive aviation liability

    Protecting airlines and aviation businesses against the financial consequences of war, hijacking, confiscation and allied perils. Essential coverage in today's uncertain geopolitical environment.

  • United commercial airplane

    Aviation war and terrorism Insurance

    Hull war and AVN52 excess liability coverage for U.S. operators with international routes or assets. Protects against losses from war, hijacking, confiscation, and allied perils — essential given current geopolitical volatility affecting overflight rights and aircraft deployments globally.

  • Commercial Plane Engine

    Aerospace products liability

    Liability protection for U.S. aerospace OEMs, component manufacturers, and MRO providers against claims arising from alleged product defects, design failures, or failure to warn. With nuclear verdicts on the rise in U.S. courts, comprehensive products liability coverage has never been more critical for this segment.

  • United commercial plane

    Airport owners and operators liability

    Coverage for U.S. airport authorities, private operators, ground handlers, and airfield contractors against third-party bodily injury and property damage claims. Addresses both airside and landside liability exposures, including terminal operations, ramp activities, and concession agreements.

  • Blue and white private jet

    Business aviation Insurance

    Tailored insurance for corporate flight departments, fractional ownership programs, charter operators, and individual aircraft owners. Covers hull, liability, and in-flight risks for turbine and piston aircraft operating under FAR Parts 91 and 135.

Additional aviation & aerospace coverage:

Core Coverages
•    Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) including Air Traffic Control (ATC)
•    Airport Owner / Operators including Authorities
•    Asset Management
•    Ground Handlers / Caterers
•    Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO)
•    OEM / Manufacturers / Component Suppliers
•    Refuellers / Energy companies
•    All other service providers to the Aerospace industry
•    Deductible Buy Back Insurance
•    Excess War (AVN52) Liability
•    Personal Accident / Loss of License

 

Core Coverages
•    Aircraft hull and liability
•    Airport liability
•    Aircraft products liability
•    Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS/drones)
•    Spacecraft — pre-launch, launch, and in-orbit
•    War risk and buy-back coverage
•    General liability
•    Workers' compensation
•    Excess and umbrella liability
•    Cyber liability
•    Management liability
•    Property
•    Errors and omissions
 

Specialized risk management and liability coverage for fixed-base operators and ground handling companies navigating a complex and claims-active environment.

Tailored insurance programs for high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and corporate flight departments with private aircraft exposures.

Dedicated coverage for spacecraft manufacturers and operators, spanning design, pre-launch, launch, and in-orbit phases.

Core Coverages
•    Transit and Pre-launch
•    Launch coverage (spacecraft and launch vehicles from ignition through spacecraft separation in orbit)
•    Post-separation (spacecraft and launch vehicles from ignition through spacecraft separation in orbit)
•    In-orbit (subsequent satellite operations)
•    Satellite transponder users
•    Satellite manufacturers for loss of incentives and warranty payments
•    Launch risk guarantees
•    Small satellites and unique missions
•    Launch and in-orbit Third Party Liability
 

Expert guidance on war exclusions and buy-back coverage for operators flying internationally, with real-time insight into evolving geopolitical risk.

Why choose us? The Howden Difference

Howden takes a more hands-on approach to aviation & aerospace insurance.

We have invested heavily in securing top brokering talent from across the globe as we expand into the U.S., giving clients direct access to experienced advisors who understand complex natural resources risks. And our employees hold a 32.2% stake in the business.

Your business isn’t defined by borders, so we work with colleagues around the world to find coverage that reflects where and how you operate.

Our team includes pilots, lawyers, underwriters, claims advocates and industry broking talent who understand the nuances of aviation risk.

We work across the entire protection lifecycle, from planning through risk engineering, claims, and beyond, and we use proprietary technology to do business more efficiently.

Other Howden capabilities that are important for your industry

  • Construction insurance program design

    Structuring insurance around contracts and project delivery, including coordinating across parties and incorporating environmental exposures within programs as needed.

  • Battersea Power Station with cranes

    Claims advocacy

    Active involvement in construction liability insurance claims, working with carriers and legal teams to manage disputes and improve outcomes.

  • Modern glass office blocks

    Independent advisory and market access

    Objective advice and flexible placement with insurers across global construction markets.

Ready to talk?

Connect with Howden advisor to review your Aviation insurance program. Meet our Aviation team:

  • Photo of Julio Jimenez

    Julio Jimenez

    Managing Director, Aviation

    Speak to our Aviation team today

    Get in Touch