PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE DESTINATION: ORLANDO
CLAIMS DIVISION WHAT EMPATHY LOOKS LIKE
UNDERWRITER DIVISION OBSERVATIONS ON TRAINING AND MENTORSHIP
AIA 2025 PREVIEW SCHEDULE, EDUCATION, AND MORE SAFETY REPORT SMS PROVIDES AN ARRAY OF BUSINESS BENEFITS
WINTER HIGHLIGHTS
JOINT SAFETY ROUNDTABLE
As you read this, the AIA Orlando conference is just around the corner! Can you believe how quickly 2025 has flown by? It feels like just yesterday I accepted the gavel from Greg Sterling in Tucson and stepped into the role of AIA president — actually, that was two years ago.
Taking on new responsibilities always comes with a bit of uncertainty about what the role will entail. Despite my extensive experience on the AIA Board, serving as president has been an incredible learning journey. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the organization’s budgeting, membership dynamics, committee initiatives, and strategic planning. This role has truly shown me how all aspects of the AIA work together to ensure our success and growth. And grow we have!
The AIA should take pride in its conference, which has become a must-attend event for anyone in the aviation insurance industry. Our membership will be well-represented with agents, brokers, underwriters, claims professionals, attorneys, and reinsurers all coming together.
We’ll also welcome attendees from flight schools, safety consultants, financial services, salvage companies, and more. Geographically, we’ll have participants from Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, the UK, and all across the US.
Orlando will be buzzing with activity! We’ve revamped this year’s conference schedule to provide more opportunities for members and attendees to connect. The AIA leadership is eager to hear your feedback, whether in person or through our post-conference survey.
The AIA should take pride in its conference, which has become a must-attend event for anyone in the aviation insurance industry.
For the latest conference information, check out this issue of The Binder starting on page 12, and visit the conference pages on the AIA website for the most up-todate details.
If you can’t join us in Orlando, you’ll be missed, but we hope to see you at a future AIA event. In the meantime, keep an eye out for the launch of our new Learning Management System (LMS) this year. The AIA is committed to providing exceptional content and opportunities for professionals worldwide.
This online, on-demand aviation insurance education will support you throughout your career. Special thanks to the AIA’s Education and Membership Committees for their efforts in this initiative.
As I conclude my final letter as your AIA president, I want to share a few reflections. Being an AIA member for over 20 years has allowed me to work with some extraordinary individuals. My time on the AIA Board as a division director, officer, and president has given me the chance to know many of you on a personal level — a gift I didn’t expect.
To those who have become true friends, thank you. I look forward to reconnecting with you in Orlando, my home state of Florida, and celebrating this amazing industry and the people who make it so special.
Chris Morin is the managing Shareholder at Murray, Morin & Herman, P.A., with offices in Tampa and Miami, Florida. Chris is Board Certified in Aviation Law by the Florida Bar and has defended aviation matters for over two decades, regularly counseling local, regional and international clients in the defense of aviation accidents and disputed civil matters.
He has tried both civil and criminal cases, including numerous bench trials and jury trials. A licensed pilot, Chris has owned and operated several aircraft, the last being an A-36 Bonanza. He assumed the role of AIA President in May 2023.
Peter Guy, Executive Vice President and Head of Aviation Claims, Applied Underwriters Aviation
It’s a cool, crisp fall morning and I’m running a little late for work. I’m driving my usual route to the office. I’m not in a hurry or speeding. Suddenly, my car is spinning around, I’m gripping the wheel with all my might, and everything is a blur. I’m dazed and very confused. What just happened? I see the airbag deployed and something is pressing on my left side. It is the buckled driver’s side seatbelt. I crawl over the center console to get out of the car. As I survey the scene, I spot another car on its side not too far from mine. The other driver is also out of his car and starts to wander over to me. He is apologetic as he realizes he ran a red light and “T-boned” my car. Neither car can be driven from the scene.
We both appear to be okay — that is, we are walking and talking. Both of us are a little overwhelmed by what just happened. My mind is flooded with so many thoughts. I’m going to be late for work. Where is my phone? I need to call my supervisor to tell her what just happened and why I will be late. I need to call my wife to tell her what happened, and to tell her I’m generally okay. Wait, I need to call my insurance agent to tell her what happened. Where is my insurance card?
The police arrive, and I am asked for my driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. The officer asks me questions about the accident, and I’m doing my best to answer. This is a lot to deal with, and now I am starting to have even more questions. How I will get around with no car? Who is going to pay for the rental while this is sorted? I have even more questions. I really do need to be in the office today as an important client is visiting. This is a lot.
I call my insurance agent to report the accident. She is patient and helpful. She reports the loss to my insurance carrier and provides me with names and phone numbers. This is the first claim I’ve ever made. Is this going to be a difficult process? I’ve just been in a fairly serious accident, and I need answers quickly. Do I have coverage for a rental car? When will I get a check for my vehicle, which is clearly not repairable? Will I get enough to buy another reliable car with similar mileage? Will my insurance premiums go up because of this? I didn’t do anything wrong.
I then call my insurance carrier and Sally answers the phone. She sounds nice, but I’m really anxious about this call. Is she going to put up a fight or be reasonable?
I explain the situation to her and she carefully asks me a lot of questions about the accident. She doesn’t blame anyone or sit in judgment of what occurred. I’m starting to feel a little better. Sally really listens and asks relevant questions.
Sally then explains what coverages I have and how each would apply. Since I do have rental coverage, she even set up the rental for me. The rental company will even bill my insurer directly.
estimator. She explains what fair market value means, and while I don’t really understand how it will be calculated, I could follow up with that later.
Sally wraps up the call by telling me that she too had recently been in an automobile accident and understood what this feels like. She really took the time to listen to me so that I felt understood. I didn’t know exactly how this claim was going to be resolved, but Sally sure made me feel good during our first call.
That’s a relief because money has been a little tight lately. She then explains medpay so I can see a doctor if I need to. The agent has already sent photos of the car and they already guessed it was not repairable, but simply need to confirm it with their
Peter is Executive Vice President, Head of Aviation Claims for Applied Underwriters Aviation. Based in Atlanta, GA, Peter has over thirty years of claims experience with State Farm, AIG, Allianz, Starr, and QBE. Peter has handled claims and managed large and small teams of adjusters. He is a commercial pilot with multi-engine and instrument ratings.
Meghan Griffin, Senior Underwriter, W. Brown & Associates Insurance Services
AIA Director-Elect, Underwriter Division
As Director-Elect of Underwriting at the time of writing this, I wanted to introduce myself before those who attend the 2025 AIA Conference see me in my traditionally non-black-or-blue blazers. My co-workers laughed at my bright pink and spring green blazers at first, but now admit I am hard to miss at a conference, especially on the trade floor. And while I have worked with brokers across the country, I recognize I am more of an unknown to the underwriting community.
I only recently left my first company, ORA, for W. Brown and Sompo, so it may be a surprise to some to hear I have 15 years in the industry, 13 of which are as an underwriter.
I recently received an email from MRO America that reminded me I am no longer considered a “young professional” or “rising star under 35.” Over the last few years, I’ve transitioned into what I affectionately call “the adultier-adult in the room,” a title that I wear with honor and terror. I am now working with my second freshout-of-college underwriter trainee and have had a hand in training and mentoring a few of the new underwriters at W. Brown and Sompo. At my prior company, my job included testing new workflows and products and training others as well.
How do we train brand-new underwriters, especially of different generations?
My career started in my sophomore year of college, scanning claims files while listening to audiobooks in a small, overflowing cubicle. I didn’t realize that in two years I’d return to begin my long climb up the ladder in the aviation industry.
Because of where I am, my thoughts at work often stray to questions that many companies struggle to answer: How do we train brand-new underwriters, especially of different generations? What are the important skills that we older underwriters need to ingrain in new underwriters?
Obviously, the first answer to this is how to answer a phone. Gen Z is coming in with less desire to call or answer the phone than Millennials, including this Millennial, did; though, thanks to my mentors, I’m much better at it these days.
Some companies still prefer a pilot or an aviation background — understandable as they bring a certain knowledge that saves time on in-house training and allows a focus on just insurance. I do not have an aviation background and have learned everything on the job, but I recognize there are intricacies that I’ll never quite understand without a pilot’s license. With a pilot shortage potentially worsening (we can all see that airlines are still picking up CFIs as quickly as they can), I am curious as to how that will affect the candidate pool.
Regardless of how we find employees, there is not always a clear training path for underwriters, leading many of us to get our start in an almost trial-by-fire immersion. Until training becomes streamlined, those underwriters who are not actively training on new products are likely to become mentors, even if it’s not something they seek out.
Training and mentorship are not the same thing, though the two can clearly overlap.
Training needs to come before mentorship, which is why we will put mentor hours after training in open pilot warranties. With Gen Z coming into the workforce and Millennials starting to step into leadership roles, our workforce now has five generations of employees who need to learn how to communicate effectively and respectfully. There’s knowledge and culture to be had by all generations, and a large part of mentorship needs to focus on how to make sure each group is showing up to the table as best as they rather than looking at the generation gaps as a problem to solve.
I n the end, there isn’t going to be one perfect way to bring up the next generation of underwriters. But I encourage those underwriters in mentorship roles to visit during the underwriting meeting at the AIA Conference. I look forward to listening to and discussing different ideas!
Meghan Griffin currently serves as Senior Underwriter at W. Brown & Associates Insurance Services. With over a decade of underwriting experience, Meghan specializes in general aviation. She holds two professional designations: Certified Aviation Insurance Professional (CAIP) and Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU). Meghan was elected Director-Elect of the Underwriter Division in May 2024.
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There’s still time to register for the 2025 AIA Annual Conference April 25–28 in Orlando, Florida. Join more than 550 aviation insurance professionals for four days of education, networking and more. This annual gathering is an unparalleled occasion where all facets of the industry are together at once. Learn more and register today at https://aiaweb.org/page/aia2025.
Friday, April 25
12:00–5:00 PM ......................... Registration
1:00–5:00 PM Continuing Legal Education Sessions
3:00–5:00 PM .......................... Queuing Up at AIA
5:00–6:30 PM Quick Pick Registration
5:00–6:00 PM .......................... New Member/First-Timer Reception
6:00–7:30 PM Welcome Reception
Saturday, April 26
6:45 AM–2:00 PM ...................... Sporting Clays Tournament
7:00 AM–3:00 PM G olf Tournament
9:30 AM–12:30 PM ...................... I ndoor Pickleball Outing
12:00–6:00 PM Registration
3:30–4:30 PM .......................... Committee Meetings
5:30–7:00 PM Women’s Initiative Happy Hour ( Invitation Only)
Sunday, April 27
7:00 AM–4:00 PM ...................... Registration
7:00–8:15 AM Breakfast with Exhibitors
8:00–9:30 AM .......................... G eneral Session
9:30–10:00 AM Networking Break
10:00 AM–12:00 PM..................... Continuing Insurance Education Sessions
11:45 AM–1:15 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
1:00–3:00 PM .......................... Continuing Insurance Education Sessions
3:30–4:30 PM Division Meetings and Elections
Monday, April 28
7:00 AM–3:30 PM ...................... Registration
7:00–8:15 AM Breakfast with Exhibitors
8:00–9:30 AM .......................... G eneral Session
9:30–10:00 AM Networking Break
10:00 AM–12:00 PM..................... Continuing Insurance Education Sessions
11:45 AM–1:15 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
1:00–3:00 PM .......................... Continuing Insurance Education Sessions
5:30–8:30 PM Closing Party
Kristen Suarez, Executive Manager, BWI Aviation Insurance Agency, Inc.
AIA Director, Agent/Broker Division
The biggest event of the year for aviation insurance professionals is almost here — the AIA Annual Conference!
This isn’t just another industry event; it’s the ultimate opportunity to network, learn, and build real connections with people who truly understand the challenges and rewards of our business.
One of the most overlooked events during the conference is the Agent/Broker Division Meeting and trust me, you’ll want to be there this year!
Whether you’ve attended before or this is your first time, this meeting is the perfect place to break the ice, share a few laughs, and talk about the realities of the industry in a relaxed setting.
Too often, we get caught up in the day-to-day busyness of our roles, focusing only on closing the next deal or staying ahead of the competition. This meeting is different. It’s a chance to leave the competition at the door and connect with other agents and brokers who deal with the same daily struggles, challenges, and — let’s be real — outrageous client stories.
Aviation insurance is an exciting and dynamic field, but it’s not always easy. Between market fluctuations, changing regulations, demanding clients, and the unpredictability of aviation itself, we all have our fair share of war stories. This meeting is the perfect space to laugh and learn from each other.
Not every story has to be funny — some are downright inspiring. Maybe you landed a dream client after months of persistence, or you figured out a creative way to solve a tricky coverage issue. These kinds of wins motivate all of us to keep pushing forward and help newer agents learn the ropes.
Have you ever had a client who thought their private jet was “just like a car” when it came to coverage? Or an underwriter who gave you a quote that made you do a double-take? How about that time an endorsement request turned into a 20-email chain? We all have stories — funny, bizarre, and downright unbelievable — and this is the place to share them!
Yes, we’ll talk shop without sharing anything competitively sensitive. This meeting is about discussing industry trends, challenges, and market insights in a way that benefits everyone. This is a judgment-free space where we can share knowledge that helps the entire industry grow.
Let’s be honest — traditional networking can feel forced and awkward. That’s why this meeting is different. Instead of stiff handshakes and generic small talk, we’re here to have real conversations with people who actually understand the ups and downs of aviation insurance.
We want you to walk away with new connections, fresh perspectives, and maybe even a new friend or two. Who knows? The person sitting next to you might be your next great business partner or referral source.
So pull up a chair, grab a drink, and let’s talk shop, share a laugh, and build a stronger community together.
I can’t wait to see you there!
Kristen Suarez has been serving the aviation industry for nine years as of May 2025. She is currently the executive manager of BWI Aviation Insurance Agency, Inc., and a proud AIA member since 2018. She currently serves as AIA’s Director of the Agent/ Broker Division.
Sunday, April 27, 2025 | 3:30 PM Room: Harmony A
This is not a pitch. It’s not a sales session. And it’s definitely not a boring corporate roundtable.
This is a chance to step away from the daily grind, share experiences, and connect on a human level.
Whether you’ve been in the industry for 30 years or 30 days, you have something valuable to bring to the table. We want to hear your stories, your insights, and your thoughts on where aviation insurance is heading.
Mike McGrory, Partner, Amundsen Davis LLC, and mark meyer, partner, hfw aia board of Directors, Attorney Division
The 2025 AIA Conference is coming up soon, and we are hoping for another great t urnout at the CLE day on Friday, April 25. We are lucky to again offer a compelling slate of presenters who will speak on timely topics that afternoon.
Brett Godfrey of Godfrey Law PC will look at the liabilities the industry faces with respect to PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) and other environmental risks. Based on Brett’s prior talks, we can expect a thoughtful and meticulously prepared overview of what PFAS are, the hazards they pose, litigation arising from PFAS pollution, and associated coverage issues.
We are also excited to be joined by Armen Adzhemyan, Senior Corporate CounselLitigation for Delta Air Lines. Armen will talk about his experience in addressing criminal acts that take place aboard commercial aircraft. And, we trust, he will share some outrageous “war stories.”
Michael Bauer, Chris Proudlove, and Jerry Trachtman will update our group on the legal and insurance issues brought about by new technologies in aviation and space. An executive of Great American Insurance Group, Chris is known within AIA circles as being very knowledgeable on cutting-edge issues. Mike is a highly respected aerospace engineer with 25 years of experience in the investigative safety field. Jerry, a Florida aviation and space law attorney, was an engineer for NASA’s Apollo program.
For our last session, Shannon Dugan of Jackson Walker will lead a discussion with panelists Toni Burdette of Sompo, Jon Gillen of Starr, and Alex Whitman of Cunningham Swaim. This group will teach us about best practices in attorney/ claims relationships. We are applying for professional responsibility (i.e., ethics) credit for this session.
Don’t forget to also look at the CIE session topics on Sunday and Monday. The CIE Education Committee put together a tremendous program, and several of the sessions will be eligible for CLE credit as well.
We want to thank our inaugural CLE Committee members who were tremendously helpful in putting together this program: Shannon Dugan, Tim Ravich, and Sybille Rexer. Please reach out to Mike McGrory or Mark Meyer if you have any interest in joining the CLE Committee to help plan for next year.
The AIA wishes to thank Mike McGrory, as he winds down his second term as Director of the Attorney Division on the AIA Board. And let’s wish the best of luck to Mark Meyer, as he begins his first full term as director. We’re excited to see what you can do!
At AIA 2025, the AIA team is excited to offer our Continuing Insurance Education (CIE) program as two four-hour programs — one on Sunday and the other on Monday. Both days will feature the high-quality, aviation insurance-specific education you expect from the AIA without the exhaustive experience of a full day of education.
Sunday’s Program (April 27)
We’ll kick off Sunday’s CIE program at 10:00 am with a panel discussion focused on enhancing aviation safety and risk management through quality data. Étienne Côté, Bombardier; Christopher Fostiak, Brown & Brown, Inc.; Andrew Madison, Starr Aviation; and Madeline Young, Polaris Aero will address the types of data that an organization should consider collecting — such as Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) and Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) — as well as how to harness that data into actionable, riskreducing improvements in daily operations.
In the following session, Jason Little of Old Republic Aerospace, Inc.; Keri Ryan, AXA XL; and Joe Williams, Marsh McLennan Agency will provide a comprehensive understanding of the Purpose of Use (POU) in aircraft hull and liability insurance policies. They will also share some realworld examples of claims gone wrong.
Frank Kimmel of Kimmel Aviation Insurance Agency, Inc. and Michael Lumpkin of Beacon Aviation Insurance Services, Inc. will share a high-level look at the different parts of Workers’ Compensation policy and how the policy type protects the end users.
In the final CIE session of Sunday’s program, Starr Insurance’s Jim Anderson will review what a non-owned policy is and is not as well as several basic coverage features. He will then discuss some of the considerations underwriters will have with non-owned aircraft coverage.
Monday’s Program (April 28)
Our Monday CIE Program begins at 10:00 AM with a presentation demystifying flying clubs. Laura Countryman of Old Republic Aerospace, Inc. will address oftenmisunderstood concepts such as: What is a flying club? What are the challenges associated with these clubs? Where is the value in the underwriter’s perspective? Attendees will take away insights into underwriting considerations and risk strategies to manage flying clubs’ unique risks.
In the next session, Jonathan Gillen with Starr Aviation, Jeff Sheets of Applied Underwriters Aviation, and Kevin Wyckoff of Alaska Claims Services, Inc., will share stories of true and unusual claims.
They’ll touch on coverage issues, arguments raised by the parties, and how the cases were ultimately resolved, and offer some lessons learned to assist in developing a resolution strategy.
After lunch, Mike Peterson of Willis Global Aviation & Space will outline the risks that foam systems present and provide an update on future code changes.
Global Aerospace’s Nicholas Methven will conclude our Monday CIE program with a presentation on emerging technologies in aviation. This session will explore what is happening in various areas including small drones, sustainability initiatives, automation and autonomy, and new / developing markets.
He will also discuss the inequities within the current state of play, how insurance for hangar operations has contributed to this, and what the aviation insurance community can do to promote better results.
A special thank you to the AIA Education Committee who developed the session topics and secured this outstanding group of speakers!
Sunday, April 27, 8:00 - 9:30 AM
Sunday, April 27, 8:00 - 9:30 AM
MAYA SHPAK | Chief Executive Officer, SkyPath
MAYA SHPAK | Chief Executive Officer, SkyPath
Clear Skies Ahead:
Turbulence remains a leading cause of in-flight injuries and costly insurance claims, but emerging technologies are changing the game. This talk will explore the latest advancements in turbulence detection systems, ride quality forecasting, and AI-driven navigation tools that help pilots minimize rough air encounters. Backed by real-world data, we’ll examine how these innovations can reduce passenger and crew injuries, lower operational risks, and ultimately decrease insurer claims. With cutting-edge solutions on the horizon, the future of aviation safety is smoother than ever.
Turbulence remains a leading cause of in-flight injuries and costly insurance claims, but emerging technologies are changing the game. This talk will explore the latest advancements in turbulence detection systems, ride quality forecasting, and AI-driven navigation tools that help pilots minimize rough air encounters. Backed by real-world data, we’ll examine how these innovations can reduce passenger and crew injuries, lower operational risks, and ultimately decrease insurer claims. With cutting-edge solutions on the horizon, the future of aviation safety is smoother than ever.
Maya Shpak is a trailblazer in aviation and innovation. A proud mother of three, Maya brings passion and expertise to her role as Chief Executive Officer of SkyPath, a position she has held since 2021. Joining SkyPath nearly six years ago, she previously drove the company’s success as COO. With over 14 years of industry experience, Maya’s leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of cutting-edge product development. Before SkyPath, she honed her expertise in managing aviation technology and innovation at Elbit Systems, where her visionary approach led to technological and operational enhancement for the commercial and business aviation industry.
Maya Shpak is a trailblazer in aviation and innovation. A proud mother of three, Maya brings passion and expertise to her role as Chief Executive Officer of SkyPath, a position she has held since 2021. Joining SkyPath nearly six years ago, she previously drove the company’s success as COO. With over 14 years of industry experience, Maya’s leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of cutting-edge product development. Before SkyPath, she honed her expertise in managing aviation technology and innovation at Elbit Systems, where her visionary approach led to technological and operational enhancement for the commercial and business aviation industry.
Maya’s career began in the skies as a helicopter pilot in the Israeli Air Force, where she served with distinction for 13 years, and continues to inspire as a reserve pilot and commander as a flight instructor in the flight academy. Maya’s journey is a testament to her drive to push boundaries and lead teams toward transformative achievements.
Maya’s career began in the skies as a helicopter pilot in the Israeli Air Force, where she served with distinction for 13 years, and continues to inspire as a reserve pilot and commander as a flight instructor in the flight academy. Maya’s journey is a testament to her drive to push boundaries and lead teams toward transformative achievements.
Monday, April 28, 8:00 - 9:30 AM
Monday, April 28, 8:00 - 9:30 AM
KEVIN LAROSA | Aerial Coordinator and Stunt Pilot
Kevin LaRosa is a renowned leader in aerial cinematography, known for his ability to balance safety, teamwork, and the pursuit of perfection. With extensive experience navigating the challenges of filming complex aerial sequences in demanding conditions, Kevin has mastered the art of fostering trust and collaboration within high-performance teams.
Kevin LaRosa is a renowned leader in aerial cinematography, known for his ability to balance safety, teamwork, and the pursuit of perfection. With extensive experience navigating the challenges of filming complex aerial sequences in demanding conditions, Kevin has mastered the art of fostering trust and collaboration within high-performance teams.
In this presentation, Kevin will share valuable insights into how meticulous preparation and a focus on safety can unlock creativity and elevate results. Whether your interests lie in aviation, filmmaking, safety, or leadership, Kevin’s expertise and passion are sure to inspire and educate.
In this presentation, Kevin will share valuable insights into how meticulous preparation and a focus on safety can unlock creativity and elevate results. Whether your interests lie in aviation, filmmaking, safety, or leadership, Kevin’s expertise and passion are sure to inspire and educate.
Steve Bruneau, Vice President of Aviation, Polaris Aero; Christopher Fostiak, Vice President and Milwaukee Office Team Lead, Brown & Brown, Inc.; and Jason Starke, President, Starkeafhg, LLC
AIA Safety Committee
As 2025 begins, many aviation businesses — including charter operators responding to new regulations — are implementing Safety Management Systems (SMS). Often viewed as a burdensome cost, SMS can be transformative when approached strategically. This article argues that reframing the SMS conversation by focusing on its benefits as a core business improvement initiative is crucial for driving cultural adoption and maximizing returns.
While regulatory compliance is a primary motivator for some, the true potential of SMS extends far beyond. Private operators, FBOs, and MROs also recognize the value of proactive SMS implementation for enhanced safety and efficiency. The key is shifting the perception of SMS from a cost to a strategic investment.
Start with “Why”: Reframing the SMS Conversation
As author Simon Sinek suggests, understanding the “why” behind SMS is essential. Beyond regulatory needs, a well-implemented SMS offers significant advantages. While minimizing safety-related incidents (accidents, damage, injuries, environmental harm, reputational damage) is paramount, the “why” must also resonate with business objectives.
Quantifying potential cost savings from incident prevention can be a powerful motivator.
However, quantifying the avoidance of potential negatives can be challenging. Therefore, highlighting the positive business benefits of SMS is crucial.
The Business Case for SMS:
Enhanced Employee Engagement: Social Exchange Theory suggests employees reciprocate perceived organizational investment in their wellbeing with increased commitment and productivity. SMS demonstrates this commitment to safety, fostering a more engaged workforce.
Safety Culture a nd Employee Voice: A robust SMS cultivates a positive safety culture, directly impacting operational risk. It fosters psychological safety, empowering employees to voice improvement suggestions. This “employee voice” fuels innovation, efficiency, and productivity.
Increased Employee Retention and Well-being: A strong safety culture demonstrably improves employee wellbeing, leading to lower turnover, greater commitment, and reduced absenteeism — critical advantages in today’s competitive job market.
Shifting the conversation from cost to investment is key to driving cultural adoption and realizing the true value of a wellimplemented SMS.
SMS as a Process Improvement Driver:
SMS is inherently linked to process improvement. In aviation, where safety is embedded in every process, improving a process often has safety implications, and addressing safety issues usually requires process adjustments. Aligning the SMS conversation with process improvement streamlines implementation and maximizes impact. Most aviation businesses already engage in process improvement; integrating SMS leverages these existing efforts.
A robust SMS demonstrates an unwavering commitment to safety, increasing insurer confidence. Insurers often evaluate companies top-down, assessing leadership support for safety objectives and investment in personnel and aircraft. Positive responses, along with industry certifications (IS-BAO, BASC, AR/GUS, Wyvern, etc.), enhance the perception of sound investment in flight operations.
A growing number of insurers have recognized value in partnering with SMS service providers for their policyholders. This investment represents a symbiotic relationship that supports a safer operation with fewer claims. Participating in these programs signals a commitment to continuous improvement and a strong safety culture, potentially leading to better coverage and lower premiums. In the event of an accident or incident, insurers are also less likely to penalize operators with strong safety records.
Implementing SMS is not merely a regulatory burden; it’s a strategic investment in the future of aviation businesses. By focusing on the “why” — the tangible business benefits alongside crucial safety improvements — organizations unlock the full potential of SMS, creating a safer, more efficient, and more successful operation.
Shifting the conversation from cost to investment is key to driving cultural adoption and realizing the true value of a well-implemented SMS
As Vice President of Aviation at Polaris Aero, Steve Bruneau is responsible for expanding the company’s suite of safety management solutions. Steve has more than 25 years of process consulting experience helping organizations meet regulatory requirements or achieve new levels of performance.
As Vice President and Milwaukee Office Team Lead of the Brown & Brown Aviation Department, Christopher Fostiak is responsible for providing risk management and insurance services for a broad range of aviation clientele. With more than 25 years of combined underwriting and broker experience, Chris seeks to educate and inform his customers on all matters related to aviation insurance risk.
Jason Starke is an accomplished aviation safety expert and President of Starkeafhg, LLC. His extensive career includes key leadership roles at prestigious organizations including Universal Weather and Aviation, where he pioneered their safety management system service. He continues to shape future aviation professionals as an instructor at the University of Southern California’s Aviation Safety and Security program.
In January, aviation professionals from around the country came together at Million Air Dallas in Dallas, Texas, for a series of roundtable discussions focused on safety.
Spearheaded by the Safety Committee of the Aviation Insurance Association (AIA) and in partnership with the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the event offered a unique opportunity for insurance experts, operators and others in the industry to drill down on specific topics, share challenges and ideas for solutions, and build a broader network.
The Joint AIA/ NBAA Safety Roundtable Event was first offered in 2024 in Atlanta and was so well received that the leadership of both organizations deemed it of significant value to continue.
Three topics were chosen to allow ample time for discussion and then a reporting out on each issue to the entire group. Those topics and some of the observations made by the event attendees are noted below.
The first issue discussed was around safety and how it can be impacted by business model changes.
With company acquisitions, disruptions in management, and employee turnover, there is a greater risk of losing institutional knowledge, which can impact safety.
Attendees noted that it is imperative to have policies in place and monitor those policies and their implementation often to ensure there is a consistent focus on safety through any distractions that a change in management may cause.
Tools like checklists, project management platforms, and artificial intelligence can assist in monitoring safety protocols; however, they cannot entirely take the place of a whole-company culture of safety.
The second session was focused on the quality of pre-buy inspections and parts.
When it comes to pre-buy inspections in business aviation, ensuring that aircraft and their parts are thoroughly examined before purchase is critical to the long-term safety, reliability, and operational efficiency of the aircraft.
During COVID, many pre-buy inspections did not take place, and it is hard, if not impossible, to capture all the
information that is needed in a purchase agreement. Logbooks are only as good as the data in them, so an inspection by a trained mechanic is one of the most accurate ways to identify the “unknowns.”
And loss of use after a transaction has taken place could be a liability issue if any inspector misses something.
The final topic related to the insurability of aging pilots — a hot topic in the industry and one that will continue to persist as the population ages.
With insurance companies having their own specific requirements and risk assessments related to pilots’ age, health, and experience, the
table discussions generated creative ideas around pilot testing and insurability. Much of the industry is focused on skills decay, but there also needs to be an emphasis on cognitive decay. In addition to medical testing, a cognitive exam to establish a baseline could be used to evaluate and test the pilot year over year.
Aging pilots tend to control risks, meaning they may self-select things like not flying in ice or at night, but they may also think they don’t need to keep up on training.
A common thread ran through all the discussions of the day: relationships are key to maintaining safe processes.
Open and honest relationships between agents, brokers, underwriters, business operators, and pilots can help ensure safety is a priority for all.
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
2 – 2:30 PM | Registration
2:30 – 5:30 PM | Educational Programming
5:30 – 7:30 PM | Networking Reception
Tower Suites by Blue Orchid 100 Minories, London, EC3N 1JY
AIA Member Benefit: Attendance at this event is free to all AIA Members. Registration for non-members is $50/person.
President
Christopher S. Morin
Murray, Morin & Herman, PA Tampa, FL cmorin@mmhlaw.com
Vice President
Ian Wrigglesworth
Guy Carpenter London, United Kingdom ian.wrigglesworth@guycarp.com
Secretary Luke Uithoven
Kimmel Aviation Insurance Agency, Inc. Greenwood, MS luke@kimmelinsurance.com
Treasurer
Nicole Wolfe Stout Strawinski & Stout, P.C. Atlanta, GA nws@strawlaw.com
Director, Agent/Broker Division
Kristen Suarez
BWI Aviation Insurance Agency, Inc. Canyon Lake, CA kristen.suarez@bwifly.com
Director, Attorney Division
Michael McGrory
Amundsen Davis, LLC Chicago, IL mmcgrory@amundsendavislaw.com
Director-elect, attorney Division
Mark Meyer HFW London, United Kingdom mark.meyer@hfw.com
Director, Claims Division
Jeff Sheets
Applied Underwriters Aviation Los Angeles, CA jdsheets@auw.com
Director, Reinsurance Division
Raffaella Basile
Swiss Reinsurance Company Ltd Zurich, Switzerland raffaella_basile@swissre.com
Director, Underwriter Division
Jeffrey t. Sutton
London Aviation Underwriters, Inc.
Federal Way, WA jtsutton@londonaviation.net
Director-Elect, Underwriter Division
Meghan Griffin
W. Brown & Associates Alpharetta, GA megriffin@wbais.com
International Director
Andy Trundle
Starr Aviation London, United Kingdom andy.trundle@starrcompanies.com
Director-at-Large wes collier
Old Republic Aerospace Kennesaw, GA wcollier@ORaero.com
Director-at-Large
david hampson
Schrager Hampson Aviation Insurance Agency Bedford, MA david@planeinsurance.com
International Director-at-Large
David Watts
Old Republic Canada Ontario, Canada dwatts@ORaero.com
AIA General Counsel
Bob Williams
Victor Rane PLC Pittsburgh, PA rwilliams@victorrane.com
Executive Director
Mary Gratzer
Aviation Insurance Association Lexington, KY mary.gratzer@aiaweb.org
AIA — Aviation Insurance Association
AOPA — Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
ASAP — Aviation Safety Action Program (FAA)
ASIAS — Aviation Safety Information Analysis and Sharing system (FAA)
ASRS — Aviation Safety Reporting System (FAA)
CASA — Civil Aviation Safety Authority (Australia)
CAAC — Civil Aviation Administration of China
COPA — Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association
EAA — Experimental Aircraft Association
EASA — European Union Aviation Safety Agency
E6B — A type of manual or electronic flight computer
ESG — Environmental, Social, and Governance
EVTOL — Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Vehicle
FAA — Federal Aviation Administration (U.S.)
FBO — Fixed base operator (service station for aircraft and pilots)
FDM/FOQA — Flight Data Monitoring / Flight Operations Quality Assurance
GA — General Aviation
GAMA — General Aviation Manufacturers Association
GHSP — Ground Handling Service Providers
HUD — Heads Up Display
IATA — International Air Transport Association
IBAC — International Business Aviation Council
ICAO — International Civil Aviation Organization
IFR — Instrument Flight Rules
IMC — Instrument Meteorological Conditions
IS-BAO — International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations
IS-BAH — International Standard for Business Aircraft Handling
MRO — Maintenance Repair Organization
NBAA — National Business Aviation Association
NTSB — National Transportation Safety Board (U.S.)
P&C — Property and Casualty
SMS — Safety Management System
UAM — Urban Air Mobility
UAV — Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (also known as a drone)
VFR — Visual Flight Rules
VR — Virtual Reality
WAI — Women in Aviation International
This is an abridged list of aviation insurance terms that appear in current and previous editions of the AIA’s The Binder.