Phil Kennedy
Phil Kennedy started flight school in 1996. His background flying airplanes and advanced understanding of the FAA, FAR’s, pilot ratings, types of aircraft, and other aspects of aircraft operations have provided an insightful look at various brokering situations. Within Phil’s career, he has crafted unique insurance programs for two major aerial fire suppression operators during the industry's transition from the P-2 Neptune to the BAE146. This required deep expertise in converting the BAE146 from airline service to firefighting use, navigating complex R&D, valuation challenges, and educating underwriters on its viability.
Phil has managed high-stakes claims involving vintage P-2 Neptunes, where structural damage raised serious airframe integrity concerns. One notable case—a gear-up landing due to gear failure—required input from DERs and metallurgy experts to determine repair feasibility. It remains one of the most challenging claims he has handled.
He has also built custom insurance solutions for specialized rotor-wing platforms including the S-64 Erickson Aircrane, S-70 Blackhawk, and K-Max, among others.
Phil has also been a part of many aviation-related organizations, including the following roles -
Former president of the Northwest Aviation Insurance Association (NAIA)
Former board member, Pacific Northwest Business Aviation Association
Former board member, the Board of Trustees for Uplift Northwest (previously the Millionaire Club Charity). The organization’s purpose is to alleviate homelessness (non-aviation related).