Once you’ve decided drone insurance is a must (and if you’re flying commercially, it absolutely is), the next step is figuring out which provider actually has your back when the unexpected happens.
To save you hours of research and Reddit deep dives, we’ve compiled a list of the best insurance options for drone pilots in 2025, whether you’re a weekend freelancer, full-time aerial cinematographer, or running a drone-based business.
🥇 SkyWatch.AI – Best Overall for Freelancers
Why We Like It: SkyWatch.AI offers flexible on-demand policies by the hour, month, or year. Their mobile app is super intuitive, and you can get instant COIs (Certificates of Insurance) for clients.
Key Features:
- Hourly, monthly, and annual liability plans
- Real-time coverage adjustments
- Hull coverage available as an add-on
- Integrated with DJI flight logs for safety-based discounts
Pricing: Starts at ~$10/hour or ~$500/year
Ideal For: Freelancers, real estate pilots, and commercial operators
🥈 Thimble (formerly Verifly) – Best for On-Demand Coverage
Why We Like It: Thimble specializes in short-term, affordable insurance for freelancers across multiple industries—including drones. Ideal for sporadic or one-off jobs.
Key Features:
- Fast, no-fuss hourly or daily coverage
- Liability coverage up to $10M
- Get insured in minutes via app
Pricing: Starts around $10/hour
Ideal For: Part-time freelancers and hobbyists taking paid gigs occasionally
🥉 DroneInsurance.com – Best for Customizable Coverage
Why We Like It: This service lets you build a base “ground” policy, then activate “in-flight” coverage only when you need it. Great for pilots with irregular schedules.
Key Features:
- Usage-based coverage model
- Covers drones, payloads, and ground equipment
- Includes theft and accidental damage protection
Pricing: Custom quotes depending on usage
Ideal For: Independent contractors, dronepreneurs, and those with multiple drones or payloads
🛡️ Global Aerospace – Best for Enterprise or Full-Time Operators
Why We Like It: A veteran in aviation insurance, Global Aerospace offers comprehensive drone policies for high-volume or enterprise drone operations.
Key Features:
- Broad commercial drone coverage
- Tailored policies for large fleets
- Supports FAA compliance and regulatory needs
Pricing: Varies based on business size and drone use
Ideal For: Drone businesses, media companies, and large commercial operators
🔍 State Farm – Best Budget Option (If Available)
Why We Like It: State Farm offers affordable personal articles policies that some drone pilots use to insure their drones as personal property—though it doesn’t cover commercial use.
Key Features:
- May cover theft or damage for ~$60/year
- Easy to bundle with home or renters insurance
- Not technically for commercial use
Pricing: ~$60/year per drone
Ideal For: Hobbyists or non-commercial flyers looking for cheap gear coverage
Drone Insurance Providers Comparison (2025)
| Provider | Cost | Coverage Type | Best For | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SkyWatch.AI | Hourly: ~$10–$25/hrMonthly: ~$44–$108/moAnnual: ~$466–$1,131/yr | Liability & Hull | Commercial pilots needing flexibility | Highly flexible with hourly, monthly, and annual plans; customizable coverage limits; app-based management |
| Thimble | No longer offers drone insurance via Verifly | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| DroneInsurance.com | Monthly payments for 24/7 base/hull coverage; on-demand flight liability coverage | Liability & Hull | Small to medium-sized drone businesses | Flexible with monthly payments and on-demand options; tailored for various business sizes |
| Global Aerospace | Custom quotes; typically higher price points | Liability, Hull, Payload, Personal Injury | Enterprise and high-risk operations | Offers customized coverage based on operational needs; options for single-flight and annual plans |
| State Farm | Approximately $60–$70/year for hobbyists | Hull (Personal Articles Policy) | Hobbyists and recreational pilots | Limited to personal use; claims may affect homeowner’s insurance rates |
How to Choose the Right Policy
When comparing drone insurance providers, ask yourself:
- Am I flying commercially or recreationally?
- How often do I fly? (Frequent flyers may need annual policies)
- Do I need hull coverage, liability, or both?
- Will I need to show clients proof of insurance?
- What’s my budget for coverage?
Final Takeaway
There’s no one-size-fits-all insurance for drone pilots—but there is a right fit for everyone.
Whether you’re flying once a week for real estate clients or running aerial surveys full-time, the best drone insurance balances affordability, flexibility, and comprehensive coverage.
🚁 Recommended:
- SkyWatch.AI – Best for most freelancers
- Thimble – Best for casual or on-demand flyers
- DroneInsurance.com – Best for customizable policies
- Global Aerospace – Best for drone businesses
- State Farm – Best for hobbyist gear coverage (not commercial use)
Need help choosing the best provider for your drone biz? Drop a comment or visit the community at Lyra’s Drone Network!
