Why Pilots Need Income Protection
As a pilot, your career depends entirely on maintaining your medical certificate. Lose your Class 1 medical – whether from a heart condition, vision problem, neurological issue, or mental health condition – and your flying career could be over overnight. Income protection provides financial security during this vulnerable period.
Loss of licence ≠ income protection. Loss of licence insurance covers you if you permanently lose your medical certificate. Income protection covers you if you cannot work due to any illness or injury, whether or not it affects your medical certificate. They are different products and many pilots need both.
How Insurers Classify Pilots
| Pilot Type | Risk Class | Premium Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial airline pilot (ATPL) | Low-medium | Small loading |
| Cargo pilot | Medium | Moderate loading |
| Helicopter pilot (commercial) | Medium | Moderate loading |
| Flight instructor | Low-medium | Small loading |
| Private / recreational pilot | Higher (often excluded) | May need specialist policy |
Key Policy Features for Pilots
- “Own occupation” definition – Critical. Ensures you are covered if you cannot fly, even if you could do a ground-based role
- Mental health cover – Particularly important as mental health conditions can affect your medical certificate
- Worldwide cover – Ensure the policy covers you regardless of where you are based or flying to
- No aviation exclusion – Some general IP policies exclude aviation-related claims. Check carefully
Loss of Licence vs Income Protection
| Feature | Loss of Licence | Income Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Covers | Permanent loss of medical certificate | Any illness/injury stopping work |
| Payout | Lump sum | Monthly income |
| Temporary conditions | No | Yes |
| Non-flying illness | No | Yes |
Most pilot financial advisers recommend both products for comprehensive protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Available from most providers, some may apply a loading.
A 30-year-old earning £35k: around £25–45/month for 60% income replacement.