As a Class 4 Flight Instructor (CFI), you dedicate your time to training the next generation of pilots, ensuring they develop the skills and knowledge necessary for safe flight operations. However, your role also comes with significant liability risks. Whether you’re conducting a flight lesson, completing a flight review, or overseeing a check ride, you could be held financially and legally responsible for any accidents or property damage—even if you don’t own the aircraft. Additionally, liability may extend long after lessons have ended, should a former student be involved in an incident.
The question is: are you adequately protected? The right aviation insurance policy can safeguard your financial well-being and ensure you’re prepared if legal action is taken against you.
Understanding Your Liability as a Flight Instructor
In the event of an accident involving one of your students, you will be held to a higher standard than the pilot involved. Authorities such as Transport Canada, legal professionals, and pilot examiners will assess whether you provided proper instruction and confirmed student competency before allowing them to progress.
As a flight instructor, you should be following and exceeding the minimum standards of instruction. To measure whether your training meets industry benchmarks, refer to:
- Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs)
- Standard 421 of the CAR – Permits, Licenses, and Ratings
Risk Management for Flight Instructors
To minimize liability risks, instructors should implement structured training practices and maintain thorough documentation. Consider these key steps:
Develop and Follow a Training Curriculum
- Create a written training program for each student.
- Have your program approved by your supervising instructor.
- Submit flight progress checks at required intervals.
Maintain Detailed Documentation
- Keep student training records, including logbooks and written test results.
- Retain notes on flight progress and any issues discussed with students.
- Preserve records of solo flights and flight test recommendations.
- Maintain up-to-date certification and rating records for yourself.
Enhance Your Skills and Knowledge
- Pursue continuing education and skill development.
- Complete an annual flight test or instructor refresher course.
- Stay current with the operation of all aircraft you teach in.
Essential Insurance Coverage for Flight Instructors
Even the most skilled instructor can face legal challenges if a student is involved in an accident. The right insurance policy ensures you are financially protected, regardless of the outcome.
Key Insurance Coverages to Consider
- Liability coverage for instruction, flight reviews, check rides, and personal flying.
- Coverage for past instruction and student certification, including solo flights.
- Owned and non-owned aircraft options to cover potential damage.
- Hull damage coverage for aircraft you fly but do not own.
- Property and medical damage coverage for other pilots.
- Extended liability when students fly solo under your supervision.
Understanding policy exclusions is crucial. Make sure your insurance remains in effect even when you are not on board. Additionally, if you switch insurance providers, ensure past student coverage is transferred.
Tailoring Your Policy to Your Situation
Your insurance needs will vary depending on whether you own an aircraft or teach using a non-owned plane. Here are some key considerations:
Instructors Using Their Own Aircraft
- Personal aircraft policies often limit the number of students you can teach.
- You may be able to add students to your policy without extra cost.
- Consider additional coverage such as:
- Hangar insurance (for protection while stored)
- In-flight insurance (to cover airborne damage)
- Public and passenger liability insurance
- Aircraft hull insurance (covers damage in flight and on the ground)
Instructors Using Non-Owned Aircraft
- You’ll need CFI non-owned insurance, which covers liability for instruction and property damage.
- Ensure you are added to the aircraft owner’s policy as a named insured.
- Review the policy carefully to confirm the extent of protection.
Instructors Working for a Flight School or FBO
- Flight schools and fixed-base operators (FBOs) may have broad policies that don’t specifically name instructors.
- Verify whether you are covered under the school’s commercial insurance policy.
- Consider supplemental non-owned flight insurance to fill any coverage gaps.
International Flight Considerations
If you operate near international borders, be aware that Canadian insurance policies may exclude coverage for incidents outside Canada. If you fly over or land in another country, you may need additional insurance from a provider licensed in that jurisdiction.
Consult with an Aviation Insurance Specialist
Navigating flight instructor insurance can be complex, but working with an experienced insurance broker can ensure you have the right protection. At Bulger Insurance, we specialize in aviation insurance and can help you find a policy that matches your instructional activities, aircraft type, and liability exposure.
Protect yourself and your career—speak with our aviation insurance experts today to secure the right coverage for your needs.
