In the aviation world, switching airlines is common whether for better routes, salary, location, or lifestyle. But one thing many pilots overlook during a job change is their Loss of License (LoL) insurance.

If your current employer provides coverage, you might assume you’re protected no matter what. But the truth is most airline-provided Loss of License coverage ends the moment you leave the job. When you change jobs, many airlines have a period you will have to work for them, before they supply you with a loss of license insurance.

So let’s look at how coverage works when you switch airlines, what risks that creates, and why having a private LoL policy may be one of the smartest financial decisions a pilot can make.

Does Employer-Provided LoL Coverage Stay With You?

In almost all cases: No.

Group Loss of License insurance is tied directly to your employment. Once your contract ends whether you resign, retire, are laid off, or switch to another airline your coverage ends too.

Even if you’re still medically fit, the policy no longer applies, and you’re left unprotected until new coverage kicks in if your new employer offers it at all.

What Risks Come with Changing Airlines?

1. Coverage Gap

There may be a period with no protection between jobs, during training, or while transitioning. If a medical issue arises during this time, you could be grounded with no payout at all.

2. Loss of Eligibility

If you develop a minor medical condition (e.g., hypertension, anxiety, surgery recovery) after leaving your old job, you may not qualify for new coverage with another airline or private insurer especially if you haven’t already secured a portable policy.

3. Limited Terms in New Employment

Not all airlines offer Loss of License insurance especially regional carriers, cargo operators, or smaller ACMI outfits. Some offer limited coverage or only insure full-time, permanent staff.

Why Private Loss of License Insurance Makes Sense

Having your own personal LoL policy means:

• ✅ You’re covered no matter where you work  or if you’re between jobs
• ✅ You can customize your payout based on your own needs (not a flat group benefit)
• ✅ You’re protected if you switch to freelance, contract, or training roles
• ✅ You control the policy, not your employer

In other words, it gives you true portability and career flexibility without risking your financial safety net.

Can You Convert Employer Coverage into Private?

Some group policies allow conversion into private coverage if done within a certain period after leaving the company. This typically requires:

• A new medical evaluation
• Payment of your own premium going forward
• Lower or modified coverage amounts

Ask your current insurance administrator or HR department before leaving, and act quickly if conversion is possible.

What to Do Before Changing Airlines

1. Check your current LoL policy terms
   • When does it end?
   • Is there a conversion option?
2. Ask the new employer about LoL coverage
   • Is it included?
   • Is it equal or better than what you had?
3. Consider applying for private coverage before you leave
   • You’re most insurable while healthy and actively flying.
4. Avoid gaps in coverage
   • Even a few months between policies can leave you exposed.

A closing note

Changing airlines can be a great move for your career but don’t let your Loss of License coverage disappear quietly in the background. Without your Class 1 medical, your flying career is at risk, and without insurance, so is your financial future.

Private Loss of License insurance gives you freedom, flexibility, and protection that travels with you whether you’re changing airlines, going freelance, or building a long career across multiple roles.

Don’t just protect your job. Protect your ability to earn wherever the journey takes you.