In-Flight Insurance NZ 2026
Comprehensive coverage for your aircraft during all phases of flight. Understand what's protected from takeoff to touchdown and everything in between.
What is In-Flight Coverage?
In-flight coverage (also called "all risk" or "flight and ground" coverage) provides protection for your aircraft during all phases of operation - from engine start through shutdown after landing. This is the most comprehensive form of hull coverage available.
Unlike ground-risk-only policies which exclude flight operations, in-flight coverage protects against the higher-risk periods when your aircraft is actually flying. This includes takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, approach, and landing phases where the majority of aircraft accidents occur.
Flight Phase Coverage
Takeoff Coverage
Protection from start of takeoff roll until airborne
- Ground roll
- Rotation
- Initial climb
- Engine failure scenarios
In-Flight Coverage
Full protection during all flight operations
- Cruise flight
- Maneuvering
- Navigation
- Emergency procedures
Landing Coverage
Protection from approach through landing rollout
- Approach phase
- Touchdown
- Landing roll
- Go-around situations
Ground Risk vs In-Flight Coverage
| Flight Phase | Ground Risk | In-Flight | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Start | ✓ | ✓ | Both cover |
| Taxi Out | ✓* | ✓ | *NIF only |
| Takeoff Roll | ✗ | ✓ | In-flight only |
| Climb/Cruise/Descent | ✗ | ✓ | In-flight only |
| Landing Roll | ✗ | ✓ | In-flight only |
| Taxi In | ✓* | ✓ | *NIF only |
| Parked/Secured | ✓ | ✓ | Both cover |
Highlighted rows show phases only covered by in-flight policies
Understanding "All Risk" Coverage
What "All Risk" Means
Despite the name, "all risk" doesn't mean everything is covered. It means coverage for all risks of physical loss or damage unless specifically excluded.
- Covers accidental damage
- Covers weather events
- Covers bird strikes
- Covers engine failure
Named Perils Alternative
Some older or specialty policies use "named perils" coverage - only specific listed risks are covered. This is less comprehensive than all-risk.
- Must prove loss from listed peril
- Gaps in coverage possible
- Less common for aircraft
- May have lower premiums
Common Policy Exclusions
Even comprehensive in-flight coverage has exclusions. Understanding these helps you know your policy's limits.
- War and terrorism (unless endorsed)
- Nuclear events
- Operations outside policy territory
- Unlicensed or unqualified pilots
- Aircraft modifications not disclosed
- Commercial use on private policy
- Racing or aerobatic contests
- Intentional damage or criminal acts
Coverage Territory
Most NZ policies cover flights within:
- New Zealand mainland
- New Zealand coastal waters
- Australia (often available)
- Pacific Islands (by endorsement)
International coverage requires specific endorsement
In-Flight vs Ground Deductibles
Many policies have different deductibles for in-flight versus ground losses, reflecting the different risk profiles:
In-Motion Deductible
Applies during flight operations
Typically Higher
Often 1-5% of hull value
Not-in-Motion Deductible
Applies while parked/stored
Typically Lower
Often a fixed dollar amount
Get Complete Flight Coverage
Don't leave your aircraft unprotected during its most vulnerable phases. Get comprehensive in-flight coverage from New Zealand's aviation insurance specialists.