SINGAPORE - - 7 August 2018 - Chubb today announced the launch of Flight Delay Insurance, an insurance coverage for air travelers. Partnering with Swiss Re and FlightStats, the insurance is available through theChubb Connect App which was launched in October last year. 

 

It is powered by United Networks (ASX.UNL), an Australian global connectivity, engagement and payments platform provider. 

 

The app offers a range of value-added services to leisure travelers such as access to a network of global wi-fi hotspots and SOS alerts.

 

Flight Delay Insurance provides fixed compensation for the inconvenience travelers may face when their flight is cancelled, diverted or delayed. Typically, for a standard travel insurance plan, a payout is only possible when the flight delay is more than six hours and for a specified loss, such as extra accommodation. 

 

With Flight Delay Insurance, a delay of as short as 30 minutes will trigger a fixed payout. There are three policy options ranging from 30, 45 and 60 minutes; any one of these will trigger a payout of $100 for the affected customer. Flight cancellations and diversions automatically trigger a similar payout.

 

The payout is usually processed within an hour, but at the latest, within 72 hours of arriving at the destination airport. The payout may help travelers cover unexpected costs incurred, for example, ground transportation, refreshments, books, magazines or any other expenses.

 

Swiss Re validates the incidents in real-time using data from FlightStats, a provider of real-time global flight data to consumers and the travel industry. Once Swiss Re has confirmed the incident, United Networks will pay the amount directly into the customer's PayPal account without the customer having to obtain any reports from the airline to file a claim.

 

Donna Dorairajoo, Chubb Asia Pacific's Head of Travel Insurance said: "Flight delays continue to be the top incident disrupting travel plans for today's travelers[1]. With more air travel, Chubb recognises their need for tailored insurance protection and efficient service. 

 

Flight delay insurance is timely in meeting the demand for relevant and affordable insurance. Without the need to file a claim or submit the supporting documents to prove a flight delay, Chubb offers an enhanced customer experience in our digitised world."

 

Nicholas Ghattas, CEO United Networks Ltd said: "We are excited to be able to work with Chubb and Swiss Re to innovate and drive the insurance digital revolution. Our leading global connectivity, engagement and payments platform will streamline uptake, sale, onboarding and the automated claims process. The Flight Delay Insurance has been integrated into the global connectivity and SOS alerts app allowing customers to purchase through the Chubb Connect app and receive updates on flight delay status."

 

Gianni Biason, Swiss Re's Head of Parametric & Emerging Solutions, added: "Our flight delay solution brings much-needed transparency and simplicity to consumers. Swiss Re's unique dynamic pricing and end-to-end solution helps insurers and aviation partners speed up their time-to-market and steer their businesses real-time."  (MO).