The University has a variety of aviation exposures including the UAA and UAF Aviation Technology Programs and the Poker Flat Research Range where rockets are launched and staff work on developing small unmanned aircraft systems technology.   Aviation insurance is maintained for these programs as well as more routine aviation risks such as charters and research related air operations.   The University is fully self-insured for hull coverage for owned or leased aircraft with a department deductible.

Use of Private Aircraft on UA Business:

With the exception of the university’s aviation schools, piloting of aircraft by employees for university business is not allowed except as specifically approved by the System Office of Risk Services (see University Regulation (05.02.060 3.e.).   Approval is likely to be granted when commercial transportation, including charter aircraft, is not available or research projects require specialized equipment to be installed on aircraft.

Transporting passengers, including other university employees, in employee owned or operated aircraft also requires the prior approval of the System Office of Risk Services. Due to liability issues, transporting non-university employees will rarely be allowed.

Employees authorized to fly on University business are not authorized to conduct any other business for any other interests during that time frame. This includes the hauling of any supplies or freight for others.

Employee pilots continue to be, at all times, subject to all federal, state and local laws and regulations governing operation of aircraft.   The aircraft to be used shall not be declared for “Public Use”.  

Employees must agree that the University shall not be liable for any maintenance, repairs, or hull damage incurred during the use of a private aircraft on University business.

Immediate notification must be given to the System Office of Risk Services of all aviation accidents or injuries.

Employees disregarding these regulations will be considered to be functioning outside the course and scope of their employment for any loss reimbursement or liability purposes.   This means that an employee who incurs a loss or a claimed or actual liability as a result of a violation of these regulations will not be entitled to any loss reimbursement or to defense and/or indemnification by the University of Alaska in any action taken against him/her.

To be considered for approved pilot status, university employees must:

   1.  Meet specific screening criteria

To request screening, complete the Pilot History Form and submit it to Risk Services.  

   2.  Provide a current and valid Certificate of Insurance

The policy must be endorsed to provide primary coverage for the employee pilot while operating private aircraft on University business. Attach a copy to the Pilot History Form.

   3.  File annually (or sooner if pilot status changes), an updated Pilot History Form and a Pilot Flight Log recording type of aircraft flown, hours flown, passengers, and trips taken in the prior year.