Drone Insurances - UAS/UAV/RPA
Historically, Drones came to the fore as military aircraft in the middle east in the early 2000s. Like many military inventions, the domestic consumer market has become the dominant purchaser.
Drones are called various names including Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).
Ultimately, it relates to an object piloted by someone on the ground.
There are various types of Drones, with the most popular described as:
- Rotor wing
- One Rotor – Helicopter
- Three Rotors – Tricopter
- Four Roters – Quadcopter
- Six Rotors – Hexacopter
- Eight Rotors – Octocopter
- Fixed Wing
- Hybrid VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Land)
Multicopters handle heavier lifts, with quadcopters popular for Film, Sport or Concert events due to being able to operate from the one spot efficiently. Fixed Wing drones are commonplace for both Search and Rescue and surveillance operations. They cover more ground but need more room for departure and arrival. Hybrid VTOLs are a mixture of the two types, as mentioned earlier.
Hobbyists use Recreational Drones for enjoyment are the most significant type of usage. However, commercial purpose usage is expanding and growing across many industries.
Drones are used in industries as varied as:
- Real Estate
- Engineering
- Marketing/Advertising
- Entertainment
- Filming
- Agriculture
Amazon and DHL are examples of companies that are using Drones.
Globally, countries have adopted to a large extent what the FAA in the USA has put together. However, CASA regulations relating to drone operators certificate requirements are developed in Australia.
From an insurance and risk perspective, there are risks from the operation of Drones. Hazards include both damage or loss and injury. The most significant are damage to the aircraft itself and injury to the operator or innocent Third Parties.
A proper Drone and equipment insurance policy insures the Hull, Liability and the ground control station and accessories. If your aircraft collides with power-lines, vehicles on the ground, or people in general, Liability insurance provides cover.
Our experiences are that demand for insurance will typically come from companies that are hiring Drone services. From this perspective, the companies that are hiring Drone Services should review not only the coverages of the firm providing drones but should also consider the purchase of a Non-Owned Aviation policy.
Here are some simple tips for reducing your risk when using Drones:
- Be properly certified
- Adopting checklists and following manufacturer specifications
- Knowing the limitation of your equipment
- Purchasing insurance
For a no-obligation discussion on your insurances, contact Business Insurance Specialists today.