What is Ground Risk Insurance?

What is Ground Rish Insurance?

Ground risk insurance is a type of aviation insurance that covers damage to an aircraft while it is on the ground. It is a specific type of aircraft insurance that protects the aircraft owner or operator from financial liability in case an aircraft comes across an accident while it’s on the ground.

What does “on the ground” include? It is typically the period when an aircraft is not in flight or actively airborne. Here are some examples of an aircraft being on the ground:

• It is parked in a hangar and is damaged by fire.
• The aircraft is being towed and is struck by another vehicle.
• It is taxiing and is damaged by a bird strike.

Here are some of the risks that ground risk insurance for aircraft typically covers:

• Fire
• Theft
• Vandalism
• Natural disasters
• Collision with another object
• Take-off or landing accidents
• Taxiing accidents
• Bird strikes
• Hailstorms
• Windstorms
• Flooding

Types of Ground Risk Insurance

Ground Risk Insurance can be divided into two categories:

• Ground risk hull insurance (non-motion): It covers damage to an aircraft that occurs while it is not in motion. 
• Ground risk hull insurance (motion): It covers damage to an aircraft that occurs while it is in motion on the ground.

What situations Ground Risk Insurance does not cover?

Here are some examples of situations that would not be covered by ground risk insurance for aircraft:

• The aircraft is taking off and is damaged by a mechanical failure.
• It is landing and is damaged by a hard landing.
• The aircraft is in flight and is struck by lightning.

As you can see, situations from take-off to landing are not typically included in Ground Risk Insurance.

Conclusion

While we are talking about Ground Risk insurance, it is important to note that Ground risk insurance is not always required by law. But, that being said, it is a good idea for all aircraft owners and operators to have it.

It protects one from financial liabilities and can come to your rescue if an aircraft suffers an accident on the ground. We try to explain complex aviation terms in an easy manner and do not recommend any purchase decision.

It is highly recommended that you do your own research and connect with professionals for assistance and guidance.