Air India renews insurance for $26.75 million at 15 per cent premium

Mumbai: Despite hardening insurance market for airlines globally following some major tragedies this year, national carrier Air India has been able to renew its cover with just 15 per cent rise in premium for its 132- aircraft fleet.

According to sources, the demand was for 25 per cent hike over the existing premium but insurers had to eventually come down to 15 per cent over the soon-to-expire policy. The sources in the London market, where the reinsurance for the cover is being decided, have confirmed that Air India's insurance will be renewed in a day or so, and it can keep flying from October 1.

They have also confirmed that to renew the policy, the airline will be paying USD 26.75 million as premium, which is 15 per cent more than the existing cover which expires on September 30. Air India, which has a fleet of 132 aircraft - 108 with itself and 24 with its two subsidiaries - 17 with Air India Express and 7 with Alliance Air, refused to comment.

While the insurance cover is provided by a consortium of public sector insurers led by New India Assurance, the reinsurance cover is being renewed by a couple of Lloyd's syndicate. The deal is likely to be completed either on Monday or Tuesday, the industry sources said. "Last year, we had provided the cover for USD 23 million.

However, the rates have hardened up in the aviation insurance market in the wake of four aviation tragedies globally back to back and two minor incidents in the country itself this year. Besides Air India had its own claims, which was substantial this year. "Though insurers were demanding a much higher premium of around USD 30 million, or 25 per cent over last year's, the airline has been able to bring it down to 15 per cent," industry sources said.