Drone exposure depends on the operation
Real-estate photography, surveying, inspections, film work and agricultural use can involve different aircraft, environments and contractual requirements. The insurance review should identify where, why and how the remotely piloted aircraft is flown—not just the drone’s retail price.
Transport Canada divides operations into categories based on factors such as aircraft, location and proximity to people. Pilot certification and operating requirements are separate from insurance and must be addressed by the operator.
Coverage areas to discuss
Depending on insurer appetite and the mission, a drone policy or specialty program may include:
- Aviation liability for covered bodily injury or property damage to third parties
- Physical damage to the aircraft, controller and scheduled payload
- Non-owned drone liability or physical damage when equipment is rented or borrowed
- Privacy, media or professional liability arising from the service provided
- Cyber coverage for certain data and network events
Commercial general liability policies may restrict aircraft-related claims. Do not assume a home, business or photography policy fills that gap without written confirmation.
The mission details drive underwriting
Prepare aircraft make, model, weight and value; payload; pilot qualifications and experience; annual flight hours; operating category; territory; and use of subcontractors. Identify flights near people, structures, airports, controlled airspace, critical infrastructure or special events.
If advanced, complex or special operations are planned, describe the authorizations and procedures in place. Racing, autonomous work, delivery, spraying, security activity and operations outside Canada may require separate consideration.
Contracts and records matter
Clients may require specific aviation liability limits, additional insured status or proof of coverage. Share those requirements before accepting the job. Maintain flight logs, maintenance records, pre-flight checklists, incident procedures and privacy practices. Obtain legal advice for contractual and privacy obligations where appropriate.
Report changes in aircraft, payload, pilot roster or mission profile before a flight. Coverage is not automatically extended because a customer changes the assignment.
Request a mission-specific review
Contact Westoak with the aircraft schedule, certificates, operating procedures, contracts, revenue and loss history. We can help organize an insurance submission; Transport Canada determines regulatory requirements and each insurer determines eligibility and terms.