Lloyd's insurer makes history with liability cover on SpaceShipOne

Lloyd's insurer Amlin confirmed that it was the lead on the $100m liability policy for the SpaceShip-One spacecraft.

Last week the craft went into the history books as the first privately-manned vehicle to go to space.

Amlin general aviation underwriter Robert Lilley said: "Such projects underline why aviation as a class of business is so dynamic.

"While they make up only a tiny part of our portfolio, it is very exciting to be involved in projects that push the boundaries."

Scaled Composites backed the mission along with investor and philanthropist Paul G Allen.

SpaceShipOne is now being tipped to win the $10m Ansari X prize. The competition is open to any privately launched spaceship, that is able to carry three people to 100 kilometers (62.5 miles) and return to Earth.

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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