What type of insurance is mandated for commercial aircraft operations?

Liability insurance is mandated for commercial aircraft operations to ensure protection against claims for bodily injury and property damage that could arise from airline operations. This type of insurance is essential as it provides financial security for the airline and compensation for victims in the event of an accident or incident involving an aircraft. Regulatory authorities and industry standards require carriers to hold adequate liability coverage, reflecting the high-risk nature of aviation activities and the potential for significant damages.

Property insurance, while crucial for protecting the aircraft and associated assets, is not typically required at the same level as liability coverage, which addresses third-party claims. Flight crew insurance is focused on safeguarding crew members against occupational hazards but is not a regulatory requirement for the operation of commercial flights. Comprehensive coverage, which may include various protections beyond liability, is also not mandated specifically; instead, various elements of comprehensive policies may be structured to meet base liability requirements. Thus, liability insurance stands as the cornerstone of required coverage in commercial aviation.