SAFA Skysailor Magazine

5 May | June 2024 SKY SAILOR We require aviation liability insurance for many reasons. The most important is that almost all landowners of flying sites require we hold a $20m liability insurance policy that covers them, in case they are sued, because we use their land for launching and landing. This applies equally to Crown land controlled by various local, State and Commonwealth government entities, and to private lands owned by individuals or businesses. Our aviation liability insurance policy covers liabilities that might arise from damage to property, or injury to people. Without this insurance policy, almost every flying site in Australia would close. We have very few provider choices for this insurance policy and it is our most significant expense – around one third to one half of SAFA’s annual budget. The most important thing we can all do to ensure that a provider is willing to sell us insurance, and to reduce our insurance costs, is to operate safely in a way that does not cause injury or damage to property. Our insurance allows us to use the land. In addition to the ongoing management of these challenges, SAFA has a range of other functions. Our SAFA Strategic Plan outlines how we promote and develop the sport, including supporting training, competitions, increased participation, and other activities. If your local club would like me to attend a meeting to discuss any SAFA issues, please reach out. On a lighter note, it is pleasing to hear of many pilots enjoying great flying conditions over the recent Easter break. Fly Safe! Vic Hare at Birchip 2024 Photo: Karyl Griemink