Insurers have a critical role to play in the roll out of new aviation technologies, the International Underwriting Association (IUA) has stated.
Innovative coverage solutions are already being prepared for developments such as air taxis and drone delivery services. To support trials and commercial deployment, however, insurers must have confidence in the safety and reliability of future operations. Responding to a Law Commission consultation, the IUA has called for a robust regulatory framework that includes a comprehensive certification process.
Tom Hughes, the IUA’s Director of Underwriting, said: “Insurers have a strong history of supporting the uptake of new technology, and our members are already embracing the growing use of unmanned aerial vehicles.
“Safety must be the paramount focus. Early-stage incidents could undermine public trust and deter insurers from participating in the market. A clear and enforceable regulatory regime will help mitigate risks and support the development of insurance products, whether through adaptation of existing policy wordings or the creation of new ones.”
The Law Commission invited comment after being asked by the Civil Aviation Authority and Department for Transport to review the law around autonomous flight.
The IUA welcomed efforts to clarify liability and said the current legal framework, largely based on human pilot error, should be reconsidered. It called for clear delineation of liability among operators, manufacturers and software developers. Legal certainty is essential for insurers to assess risks accurately, and any ambiguity could result in litigation and higher premiums.
The IUA also highlighted the need to address a growing use of artificial intelligence in advanced aviation automation. It drew parallels with the motor industry, where new legal liabilities for driving offences and accidents will be based on the level of automation involved.
Tom Hughes added: “Software developers could bear responsibility for incidents that would previously have been attributed to human pilots. Product liability law must evolve to reflect the growing role of artificial intelligence in aircraft operation, air traffic management, route planning, weather forecasting, and maintenance.”
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