Aviation risk is the additional mortality risk associated with piloting, crewing, or frequently flying in certain types of aircraft, especially non'commercial or high'hazard operations. Underwriters consider factors such as pilot certification level, total and annual flight hours, aircraft type and maintenance, flight environment, and purpose of flights (recreational, corporate, agricultural, instructional, or military). Higher aviation risk may be managed through flat extra premiums, coverage limitations, aviation exclusions, or declines for extreme activities. Accurately assessing aviation risk is essential to pricing life insurance fairly while maintaining carrier solvency.

Underwriters evaluate aviation risk using detailed aviation questionnaires and sometimes additional documentation from flight schools or employers. Advisors who work with pilots collect information on ratings, IFR experience, accident history, and types of aircraft flown to obtain tentative offers before formal applications. Carriers with specialty aviation experience may offer more competitive terms for corporate pilots or instructors than for low'hour recreational pilots in high'performance aircraft. Advisors explain the difference between passenger'only risk, which is usually standard, and pilot or crew risk, which may draw surcharges. Understanding aviation risk empowers advisors to set expectations, choose appropriate carriers, and avoid over' or under'disclosing flying activities.