Model Airplane Insurance

Many of us remember playing with toy paper airplanes when we were little and now people have turned those paper airplanes into a hobby. As each year passes and technology evolves, the sizes of the RC airplanes get bigger. Therefore, the likelihood of accidents also increases. That is why it is recommended by most club memberships to have model airplane insurance in case an accident should occur. There are a number of insurance companies that cover model airplane insurance as well as memberships to clubs which automatically grant you insurance.

Temple Insurance: associated with the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada (www.maac). This insurance company coverage is limited to models which weigh 35 kilos or less. It covers liability of bodily injury and property damage of $5,000,000 inclusive. As part of this insurance, you are also covered for any costs associated with defending any action brought against you from claims taking place as a result of the sport. There is also a $5,000 deductible for model rockets and $2,500 for all other disciplines.

A complete summary of the policy is available at the MAAC headquarters or through their website (www.maac).

Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA): The AMA is the world’s largest sport aviation organization as well as the official national body for model aviation in the United States. As a member of this organization, you are automatically issued model airplane insurance.

You have a $2,500,000 comprehensive liability protection for model members, as well as liability coverage for the operation of model aircrafts. There is also $25,000 coverage for accident/medical coverage for members, $10,000 maximum accidental death coverage, and $1,000 fire, theft, and vandalism coverage for members. For a complete, comprehensive summary of the membership benefits, please check their website (http://www.modelaircraft.org/templates/ama/default.asp?sid=64577E67183F4CFCA56F58E671E61300).

British Model Flying Association (BMFA): The BMFA is the body responsible for all aspects of model flying in the United Kingdom. As a member of this organization, you are entitled to its insurance which covers a variety of incidents.

You are covered up to £5,000,000 for any one accident, subject to £20 property damage excess. The insurance covers all of the UK and is valid in both the US and Canada. If you intend to fly in these countries, it is your duty to inform your BMFA insurance. The insurance also covers most models, except those listed in the “exclusions” portion of the insurance document.

You can find a complete review of what is included for BMFA members on their website or by contacting the organization through their email (www.bmfa.org).

Most insurance companies remind members to never claim responsibility or discuss an accident, as either action may nullify your coverage. You can also contact a local broker and have him or her find an underwriter who will cover your insurance needs.