INSURANCE COVERAGE CAUTION FOR PILOTS FLYING UNDER BASIC MED. My broker recommended Old Republic several years ago and I have insured my two airplanes with them for several years. I renewed my policy a couple weeks ago and this time around in the fine print Old Republic put in a restriction that I am only covered if I have a CFI or other qualified PPL pilot with a FAA Class III in the right seat - like I’m going to have another pilot baby sit me in the right seat. Student pilots signed off for solo fights don’t even have a restriction like that. I have been flying for many many years and have have a current PPL; NEVER had an incident/accident, claim, or the dreaded “I have a number for you to call” incident and I’m flying in and out of the DC SFRA very near P40 where there are many opportunities to screw up. I am current with all FAA PPL requirements. IF I HAD NOT NOTICED THE FINE PRINT A COUPLE DAYS AGO I WOULD BE FLYING UNINSURED! I had no idea Old Republic would pull crap like that. I elected to go with Basic Med since my Cherokees will not reach 18,000 ft, they only have 4 seats on a cold day, are only good for less than ~130 kts unless the nose is pointed down. Plus I got tired of the FAA Class III red tape and expense. My last FAA class III about 4 years ago had no restrictions. My health and great uncorrected eyesight have not changed since then so I’m confident I can easily pass a FAA Class III or Class II if I wanted but why should I? I’m ****ed Old Republic did not flag this restriction change to my policy to make sure I knew about it. My broker is currently looking for another insurance company that does not discriminate against Pilots flying under Basic Med. I suggest you think twice before using this company.
