5X5 Aviation Insurance Launches Safe Pilot Partnership with Sporty’s and PilotWorkshops
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota – August 24, 2026 – 5X5 Aviation Insurance is partnering with Sporty's and PilotWorkshops to launch the Safe Pilot Partnership, a new program that gives eligible piston aircraft pilots measurable insurance value for maintaining their proficiency through recurrent training.
"Training is one of the clearest indicators that a pilot is committed to managing risk," said Doug Tibbs, Managing Director of 5X5 Aviation Insurance. "The Safe Pilot Partnership puts a measurable value on that commitment. The best-trained pilots make the best insured pilots, and we want to recognize those who continue to invest in their proficiency."
The three-party partnership reflects a shared belief to reward pilots who take a more conscientious approach to their flying. Through the program, eligible 5X5 piston aircraft insured pilots can earn a 5% premium credit for completing a qualifying Sporty's or PilotWorkshops online proficiency course annually, plus an additional 5% credit for completing 10 or more VFR or IFR Mastery scenario-based workshops during a 12-month policy period.
The credits can stack within 5X5's existing Safety Rewards program, allowing committed pilots to earn up to 10% in annual training-related premium credits, toward a maximum of 20% in total credits under Safety Rewards, subject to underwriting guidelines.
Founded in 1961, Sporty's has grown into a leading provider of pilot training, supplies and resources, based in Batavia, Ohio. It recently purchased PilotWorkshops, which has provided scenario-based VFR and IFR Mastery workshops and online courses to a community of more than 200,000 pilots for the past 20 years.
"Pilot proficiency is not something you check off a list and move on from," said John Zimmerman, Sporty’s President & CEO. "It requires ongoing learning, practice and a willingness to keep improving. This partnership demonstrates the value for pilots who prioritize critical recurrent training."
Through the Safe Pilot Partnership, 5X5 is a recommended insurance solution for eligible Sporty's and PilotWorkshops customers. The companies also will collaborate on educational content, including a Q&A video series and newsletter content featuring Zimmerman, focused on pilot proficiency, recurrent training and safer flying.
About 5X5 Aviation Insurance
5X5 Aviation Insurance is an aviation insurance service company with headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With a data-driven, direct-to-consumer model, 5X5 provides coverage to pilots and owners of fixed-wing, high-performance aircraft in 38 states and plans to quickly expand underwriting to all 48 contiguous states. 5X5 writes on AM Best A- (Excellent) rated paper, backed by strong financial reserves and full compliance with all capitalization and regulatory requirements. 5X5 Aviation Insurance is an Invenshure-built company. www.5x5insurance.com
About Sporty's
For more than 60 years, Sporty’s has proudly served the aviation community with an emphasis on quality in both pilot education and innovative products. Located at the Clermont County Airport, just outside Cincinnati, Ohio, Sporty's operations extend to flight training, aircraft maintenance, avionics and airport management. At Sporty’s, the world’s largest pilot shop and an iconic general aviation brand, aviation is more than just our business—it’s our passion. www.sportys.com
About PilotWorkshops
Since 2005, PilotWorkshops has been providing online training courses and “pilot-friendly” manuals for general aviation pilots. Our team of award-winning instructors help pilots at all levels reach a higher standard of safety and excellence. Over 200,000 pilots use our training to stay sharp and fly safely. www.pilotworkshop.com
