Helicopter Insurance Cost

Helicopter insurance costs are based on several factors. The helicopter use, specific make and model, and that helicopter’s loss ratios are some general factors. On top of that, helicopter insurance costs change depending on the actual pilot’s experience. Your home airport or location and operating territory or mission can factor into helicopter insurance cost as well. Helicopter insurance is available for experienced pilots and for those new to helicopter flying.

Helicopters are among the most capable and versatile aircraft in aviation. Certified training programs offered by manufacturers such as Bell, Airbus, Robinson, and Sikorsky play a major role in helping pilots maintain safety. Most aviation insurance companies require or strongly recommend recurrent training.  Completing approved courses can help pilots secure premium discounts of 10 to 20%.

At Travers Aviation Insurance, our aviation insurance specialists can tailor your helicopter insurance policy to your specific make and model. We work with leading aviation insurance companies to provide competitive quotes for helicopters such as the Robinson R44, R66, Bell 407, Airbus H125, Sikorsky S-76 and more.

Helicopter insurance costs are determined by an assortment of underwriting criteria and how your underwriter weighs this data. For seasoned pilots with established flight hours and recurrent training, annual premiums typically average around 2% of the insured hull value. For example, a Robinson R22 valued at $300,000 may see costs around $4,000 to $8,000 per year, while a Bell 206 valued at $1.5 million could cost around $15,000 or $40,000 annually. Larger and more complex helicopters, like a twin-engine Leonardo AW139, valued at $5 million, could cost around $45,000 or $80,000, depending on use.

For newer or lower-time pilots, insurance premiums can typically range around 2% or more of hull value, gradually decreasing as pilots gain more experience and training hours.

Underwriters evaluate several key factors when determining helicopter insurance costs, including pilot experience, training, operational use, and onboard equipment. Pilots with over 1,000 total flight hours and at least 100 hours in make and model generally qualify for more favorable helicopter insurance rates. Certified recurrent training every 12 months is often required to maintain preferred premiums. The intended use of the helicopter also plays a major role, where private or personal operations tend to be less costly to insure than commercial or emergency medical missions. Helicopters equipped with advanced safety and avionics features may see premium reductions of around 14%.

Our team at Travers Aviation Insurance helps helicopter owners and pilots secure the best possible coverage with preferred rates and quick quotes. We can find the right policy to protect your helicopter and reduce your insurance costs.