I was swapping my Zenmuse H20T thermal camera ($11,000) from my Matrice to its case. It slipped. The germanium lens shattered on the asphalt. My drone insurance said, “We cover the drone. The camera is a payload. You didn’t schedule the payload.”
Key Takeaways
- Hull vs. Payload: “Hull” insurance covers the airframe. “Payload” (cameras, LiDAR) is separate. You must list the camera specifically on the policy.
- “Not In Flight” Coverage: Many drone policies only cover the payload while attached to the drone. If you drop it while loading/unloading (Ground Risk), it might be excluded unless you have “All Risk Ground and Flight.”
- Inland Marine Floater: Often, it is cheaper and safer to insure expensive sensors on a separate “Inland Marine” (Camera Gear) policy rather than the aviation policy.
- Depreciation: Thermal cameras depreciate fast. Ensure you have “Replacement Cost” coverage, or you’ll get a check for $4,000 for a camera that costs $12,000 to replace.
The “Why” (The Trap): The “Attached Equipment” Clause
Aviation policies usually define the “Aircraft” as the airframe and motors.
Detachable payloads are considered “Cargo” or “Separate Equipment.”
If the camera wasn’t clicked into the gimbal when it broke, the aviation insurer argues it wasn’t part of the aircraft at the time of loss.
The Investigation: “I Called Them”
I looked for the best way to insure a $10k sensor.
1. Aviation Policy (Global Aerospace)
- Method: Schedule the payload.
- Cost: 8-10% of insured value per year (~$800).
- Deductible: 5-10% (
500−500−1,000).
2. State Farm (Personal Articles Policy)
- Method: “Business Personal Property” floater.
- Cost: Much cheaper (~$200/year).
- Risk: They might cancel you if they realize it’s for commercial drone use (high risk). You must be transparent.
3. PPA (Photographers Insurance)
- Method: Equipment insurance membership.
- Verdict: Excellent coverage for “accidental drops,” often with lower deductibles than aviation policies.
Comparison Table: Sensor Insurance
| Policy Type | Covers Flight? | Covers Drop (Hand)? | Deductible |
| Drone Hull Policy | Yes | Maybe (Check wording) | High (10%) |
| Inland Marine (Gear) | Yes | Yes | Low ($250) |
| Manufacturer Warranty | No | No (Accidental) | N/A |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Schedule the Serial Number: You cannot insure “A Thermal Camera.” You must list “Zenmuse H20T, Serial #12345.”
- Get “Replacement Cost”: Verify the valuation is RCV (Replacement Cost Value), not ACV (Actual Cash Value).
- Buy a “Gear” Policy: Separate your sensor insurance from your drone liability. Use a photographer’s package (like Hill & Usher or Athos) for the sensors. It’s cheaper and broader.
- Keep the Box: If you drop it, put it in the box. Take photos. Don’t throw away the shattered pieces; the insurer owns them (salvage).
FAQ
Q: Does DJI Enterprise Shield cover this?
A: Yes, if you bought the plan for the camera specifically. It’s often the best deal for accidental damage.
Q: Is it covered if stolen from my car?
A: Only if you have “Ground” coverage or Inland Marine. Standard Hull often excludes theft from an unattended vehicle.
[IMAGE: Photo of a shattered thermal lens next to a policy document highlighting “Scheduled Equipment.”]