London Market insurers will play a vital role in the development of new advanced air mobility technologies over the next few years, the International Underwriting Association has argued.

In an official response to a public review of the law around autonomous flight, conducted by the Law Commission, the IUA called for a robust certification process that prioritises safety and access to data so that underwriters can effectively analyse risks and liabilities.

Tom Hughes, senior underwriting and claims executive at the IUA, said: “The London Market has always provided a home for new, complex risks and very large exposures. Insures are already providing cover for new aircraft and have recognised an opportunity to support the testing and roll-out of new technologies.

“It is difficult to know how fast and how quickly the market will develop, but given the levels of investment being seen in the UK and globally it is difficult to believe that advanced air mobility will not be a significant part of our transport network in the future.”

Aviation drones are already in widespread use, but their development is expected to accelerate with larger craft being used to deliver cargo and vertical take-off and landing vehicles carrying passengers for air taxi services.

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