How to get renters insurance — and why you need it

Renters insurance (formally "non-owned aircraft insurance") covers you when you fly an aircraft you don't own — a rental, a club plane, your instructor's 172.

Why it matters

• •The owner's policy protects the owner. If there's an incident, their insurer can come after you for the damage — that's the gap renters insurance closes.
• •It typically covers aircraft damage liability (the deductible and beyond), bodily injury, and property damage.
• •It isn't an FAA requirement, but most FBOs, clubs, and owners require it before you fly their aircraft — especially solo.

What it costs

For a student or new private pilot, policies commonly run a few hundred dollars a year — small next to what you're spending on training, and much smaller than an uninsured claim.

Getting a policy

• •The big names quote online in minutes: Avemco, AOPA Insurance, SkyWatch, Starr — compare a couple.
• •Match your aircraft-damage liability limit to the value of the planes you'll actually fly.
• •Once you have it, check it off in your Vector61 setup list — and keep a copy where your FBO can see it.