Understand the critical components of hangar insurance, from protecting your structure and contents to comprehensive liability coverage. Find out why standard property policies fall short and how to secure the right protection for your aviation investment.
As an aircraft hangar owner, you've invested significantly in a structure that protects valuable aviation assets. Whether you own a single-aircraft hangar or manage multiple units at a regional airport, proper insurance coverage is not just a recommendation—it's a necessity. Let's explore everything you need to know about aviation hangar insurance and why it's critical for protecting your investment.
What Is Aviation Hangar Insurance?
Aviation hangar insurance is specialized coverage designed specifically for aircraft storage facilities. Unlike standard property insurance, hangar insurance addresses the unique risks associated with aviation environments, including coverage for the structure itself, the aircraft stored inside, equipment, and liability protection.
Key Coverage Components
Structure Coverage
The most fundamental aspect of hangar insurance covers the physical structure itself. This includes protection against:
- Fire damage
- Weather events (hurricanes, tornadoes, hail)
- Vandalism
- Theft
- Accidental damage
Remember that standard commercial property policies often exclude or inadequately cover aviation-specific structures, making specialized hangar insurance essential.
Liability Protection
Perhaps the most critical element of hangar insurance is liability coverage, which protects you if someone is injured on your property or if aircraft or other property is damaged while in your care. This includes:
- Premises liability for visitor injuries
- Hangarkeeper's liability for damage to non-owned aircraft
- Environmental liability for fuel spills or contamination
- Business interruption coverage
Common Exclusions to Watch For
Most hangar insurance policies contain specific exclusions you should understand:
- Wear and tear or gradual deterioration
- Intentional damage
- Pre-existing conditions
- Certain natural disasters without additional riders
- Acts of war or terrorism
Factors Affecting Your Premium
Several variables influence what you'll pay for hangar insurance:
- Location and environmental risk factors (coastal areas, tornado zones)
- Construction type and materials
- Age and condition of the hangar
- Security measures in place
- Value of aircraft typically stored
- Claims history
- Proximity to fire protection services
Why Every Hangar Owner Needs Specialized Coverage
Regular property insurance falls drastically short for aviation facilities. Here's why specialized hangar insurance is non-negotiable:
- Aviation-Specific Risks: Standard policies don't account for the unique hazards in aviation environments, from fuel storage to aircraft movement.
- High-Value Protection: Aircraft represent significant investments requiring proper coverage parameters that standard policies don't offer.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many airport authorities and leases require specific insurance coverage minimums.
- Legal Protection: The aviation industry faces unique liability considerations that require specialized legal protection.
- Business Continuity: If damage prevents you from operating your hangar, business interruption coverage ensures you stay financially viable during repairs.
Finding the Right Coverage Partner
Not all insurance providers understand aviation. When selecting hangar insurance, look for:
- Providers with specific aviation expertise
- Customizable coverage options
- Strong claims handling reputation
- Comprehensive risk assessment capabilities
- Competitive pricing
The Cost of Going Uninsured
The financial consequences of inadequate hangar insurance can be devastating:
- Out-of-pocket structure replacement costs
- Liability for damaged aircraft (potentially millions)
- Legal expenses from liability claims
- Loss of rental income during rebuilds
- Potential breach of lease agreements with airport authorities
Take Action to Protect Your Aviation Investment
As a hangar owner, you've invested significantly in aviation infrastructure. The right insurance policy isn't just about meeting minimum requirements—it's about comprehensive protection for your business continuity and peace of mind.
Ready to secure the right hangar insurance policy? SkyWatch offers specialized aviation hangar insurance tailored to your specific needs, with experts who understand the unique challenges of hangar ownership.
Visit SkyWatch Hangar Insurance today to get a quote and ensure your aviation assets are properly protected. Don't wait until after an incident to discover gaps in your coverage.
