Minneapolis-based 5X5 Aviation Insurance has launched data-driven, direct-to-customer coverage for aircraft owners and pilots, with five US states already approved for underwriting.

“By providing underwriting services directly to customers, we are able to make decisions immediately and provide customers choices on the coverage that best meets their needs,” says CEO and founder Troy Kopischke, who saw the need for something better during flight training. “No more one size fits all. No more arbitrary age cutoffs. No inability to transition.”

Arizona, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois and Virginia are already approved and effective for full coverage underwriting, and will be followed by all 48 contiguous states as regulatory approval is secured. 5X5 will post rollout updates on coverage availability on its website.

Created by a team of pilots, entrepreneurs and insurance specialists, 5X5’s model is built on several principles. It offers multiple liability and hull coverage options tailored to each individual’s record and needs. Eliminating the need for a middleman, coverage is sold directly by 5X5, giving customers immediate access to underwriters. Pilots who engage in regular training, frequent flying, hangaring and association membership can earn rewards, and pilots and owners who choose to share flight data earn the biggest discounts. Flight data remains confidential.

An Instant Estimate Tool allows applicants to provide details about themselves, their aircraft and flying habits. A ballpark figure is returned ‘within minutes’, with detailed quotes and multiple options available in as little as 10 minutes. The process can be completed entirely online, though underwriters are available by phone to discuss policies and provide competitive alternatives.

With input from its Builder Circle of experienced owners and pilots, 5X5 has focused on high-performance light jets and turboprops such as the Cessna Citation, TBM, Piper M-series and Beechcraft King Air, as well as modern, in-production piston singles and twins from Cirrus, Diamond and Cessna. The range of eligible aircraft is expected to grow, and owners can check eligibility using the online tool at portal.5X5insurance.com.

“5X5, an aviation radio call that means loud and clear, is all about giving customers the service and multiple options they’ve been missing. Anyone spending time around pilots hears loud and clear that the current aviation insurance process is broken, inefficient and archaic, producing uncertain, even wacky underwriting decisions around qualifications, coverage and premiums. 5X5 is changing that,” Kopischke concludes.