Drone insurers need to understand both the aircraft and the way it will be operated.

What information is required about the drones? #

You may need to provide:

• Make and model.
• Weight.
• Value.
• Serial number.
• Payload.
• Equipment fitted.
• Whether the drone is owned or hired.
• Number of drones operated.

What pilot information can be required? #

Insurers may ask about:

• Pilot experience.
• Flying hours.
• Relevant qualifications.
• Remote Pilot Licence where applicable.
• Previous accidents or claims.

The exact CASA requirements depend on the type of operation.

What information is required about the work? #

Examples include:

• Photography.
• Surveying.
• Inspection.
• Mapping.
• Agriculture.
• Construction.
• Film work.
• Security.
• Other commercial operations.

The insurer may also ask about:

• Typical operating locations.
• Work near people.
• Work around buildings.
• Controlled airspace.
• Beyond visual line-of-sight operations.
• Maximum operating height.
• Overseas operations.

What regulatory information may be needed? #

Depending on the operation, provide details of:

• Drone registration.
• Operator accreditation.
• Remote Pilot Licence.
• Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate.
• Relevant CASA approvals or authorisations.

Not every operation requires all of these.

What insurance information should I provide? #

You may also need to confirm:

• Required liability limit.
• Drone and equipment values.
• Existing insurance.
• Claims history.
• Contractual insurance requirements.

Providing an accurate description of the operations helps ensure the insurer assesses the actual drone exposure rather than a generic aviation risk.