Introduction to Drone Insurance

Words By: Ian MacIver

Flying Smart: Why Drone Insurance Is Taking Off

As drones become increasingly embedded in both recreational and commercial activities, the need for drone insurance is soaring. From aerial photography and agricultural surveying to infrastructure inspection and emergency response, drones are transforming industries—but they also bring new risks. That’s where drone insurance steps in, offering a safety net for operators navigating the skies.

What Is Drone Insurance?

Drone insurance typically covers two main areas: liability and hull (physical damage). Liability insurance protects operators if their drone causes injury or property damage, while hull insurance covers repair or replacement costs if the drone itself is damaged.

More than just a Drone

Drone operators require more than just insurance for the aircraft – what about professional indemnity cover to pay for errors and omissions? Cyber insurance in case the business faces a ransomware attack? Employers liability in case staff are injured in the course of work?  

The Regulatory Landscape

In many countries, drone insurance is not yet mandatory, but that’s changing. The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), for example, requires commercial drone operators to have insurance under EC Regulation 785/2004. As drone usage expands, more jurisdictions are expected to follow suit, especially for high-risk or large-scale operations.

Tailored Coverage for a Growing Market

An online insurance policy rarely fits the bill for the specialist drone sector – the price might look good but these are unlikely to respond if you need to make a claim.

The Bottom Line

Howden work with a large range of companies in the sector (from surveyors to delivery, and from agriculture to defence) and would be happy to provide a free initial assessment of your insurance programme.

We can also offer reviews of tenders and RFP’s to give pricing estimations prior to submission.