'The Key Issue Is Training,' And Microjet Coverage
Cost
"The key issue is training," says John D'Angelone, executive
vp of general aviation underwriting with Global Aerospace of Short
Hills, NJ. "We will insist on the very best initial training
and recurrent training with no exceptions."
It's also clear that amateur pilot buyers of the emerging class
of single-pilot light jets should be prepared to pay plenty to
insure them.
No rates, let along premiums, have yet been quoted, but "the
rates will generally be higher than for larger jets that are operated
by two pilots," D'Angelone says. "Liability limits offered
to owner-flown aircraft will be lower than for professionally
flown aircraft," he adds.
D'Angelone points out that there have been single-pilot jets,
like the Cessna CJ1 and CJ2, for some time. They have been insured,
and coverage, as it will be for the new microjets like the Eclipse
or Cessna Mustang, is cheaper when there are two qualified pilots
than for one.
"We want to make sure the jets are operated by well-trained, owner-flown
pilots operating in controlled-type airports," D'Angelone says.
"We want a controlled-type airport with a tower and instrument
approach."
"The insurance costs will be fair and equitable," the
Global man says. "I do not think the cost of the insurance
will offset other savings."
Global (NBAA Booth 4006) says it's the world's largest aerospace insurer.
