Aviation exclusion is a policy provision that limits or excludes death benefit payment if the insured dies while engaging in certain types of aviation activity, typically as a pilot or crew member in private, experimental, or non'scheduled aircraft. Standard life policies usually cover commercial airline passengers without exclusion, but non'standard aviation risks may require a flat extra rating or an aviation exclusion rider. The exclusion protects insurers from high'risk aviation exposure that falls outside normal pricing assumptions. Wording varies by carrier and may distinguish between recreational pilots, student pilots, corporate pilots, and professional aircrew.

Underwriters apply aviation exclusions when an applicantTMs flying activities exceed what the carrier is willing to cover at a reasonable price. They rely on aviation questionnaires to understand pilot ratings, hours flown, aircraft types, and flight environments. Advisors present clients with alternatives: accept an exclusion and pay standard rates, or pay additional flat extras to retain full coverage. Some clients buy separate specialized aviation coverage instead. Advisors must explain exclusion language carefully to avoid misunderstandings at claim time. Understanding aviation exclusions allows producers to set clear expectations for pilots and aircrew while still securing appropriate life coverage solutions.