Does my public liability cover airside work?
Usually not. Standard public liability policies commonly exclude airports and aerodromes as high-risk locations. Some insurers will extend liability for airside work for an additional premium, but indemnity limits are often capped — commonly around £5 million.
Airside work typically needs higher limits. Separate airside liability cover (as a top-up or standalone) is often required, and limits of indemnity frequently exceed £50 million. Many airports make that independent cover a condition of access.
Where the two products differ
- Location risk — Standard PL is built for everyday premises and public spaces. Airside cover is written for restricted airport zones (aprons, taxiways, secure terminals).
- Indemnity scale — Ordinary business PL is often sold at £1–£5 million. Airside schemes arrange £1 million through to £250 million so you can meet contract minimums.
- Motor third-party exposure — Airside schemes commonly bundle motor vehicle property damage and bodily injury with general public liability for airport plant and vehicles.
- Access / pass requirements — Without the right certificate you may be refused airside access even if you already hold a “standard” PL policy.
When you might still need both
Landside offices, warehouses or public-facing shops may still need ordinary public liability for those locations. Airside liability is the piece that fills the airport gap — it does not automatically replace every other liability policy you hold. Tell your advisor how your work splits between landside and airside so terms reflect the real risk.
Choosing a limit of indemnity
Choosing an adequate limit is your responsibility — insurers will not usually tell you the exact amount you need. Airport contracts and professional bodies often set a minimum. Our advisors can talk through options from £1 million up to £250 million when you start a quote or call 01773 810072.
Get the right cover for airport work
Read more in what is airside liability insurance?, our cover overview, or the full FAQ. Then complete the form — an advisor returns terms; there is no buy-online checkout.