One of the most common questions when planning mountain treks in Bulgaria is: "If a helicopter rescue is required - does the insurance pay for it?"The answer is: not always.In most cases, the standardmountain insurancedoes not cover helicopter costs unless specifically included in the policy.🏔️

How much does a mountain helicopter rescue cost?

Helicopter rescues are expensive and high-risk.Costs are shaped by flight time, terrain type, landing conditions and crew on board.Usual amounts vary between 2,500 and 10,000 euros – an average value of one share.Hard-to-reach terrains are over 6,000 euros, and night actions - up to +30% more expensive.

Important: The mountain rescue service in Bulgaria is state-owned, but does not cover aviation costs.If a helicopter gets involved, the bill comes to you – unless you're properly insured.

🛡️ What does standard mountain insurance cover?

Most standard policies offer basic coverage such as:

Land rescue(stretchers, field teams);
Medical transportto a medical facility;
Medical expensesin hospital;
Emergency phone number for coordination.

The helicopter is NOT included unless there is a special add-on to the policy.

How do you know if you are covered in a helicopter strike?

The policy can be checked in the following ways:

Read the general conditions carefully– search for “air rescue”, “helicopter” or “air transport”;
Ask a consultant– request written confirmation;
Search for a policy with coverage included or add extended(eg 'premium' or 'extended rescue cover').

📊 Helicopter rescue coverage by type of insurance

Policy type	Helicopter rescue	Clarification
Standard mountain	No	Includes ground rescue only
Mountain with added coverage	Partially	Covers part of the aviation costs (up to a limit)
Premium travel policy	Yes	Includes helicopter, transport, medical evacuation
Insurance for abroad	Possible	It depends on the coverage area and the conditions
Alpine/extreme sports	Yes	Designed for high-risk terrains and activities

What if you DO NOT have coverage?

If you are in the mountains and you are seriously injured, and the rescue team requests the involvement of a helicopter, the civil service will act.But the aviation costs will be at your expense and can reach 5-digit amounts in BGN.They are subject to voluntary or judicial collection by the victim.

When is it especially important to have helicopter coverage?

It is recommended to add helicopter rescue if:

Plansthemhikes in Rila, Pirin or Stara planina;
Participatesthemin rock climbing or mountaineering;
It's coming outthemoff marked trails;
Sthemin the mountains in bad weather conditions;
Karathemoff-piste skiing or snowboarding.

Frequently asked questions

Does standard mountain insurance cover helicopter rescue?

Answer: In most cases, no.Standard mountain insurance only covers ground rescue operations.Helicopter transport is only included with extended coverage.If there is no such clause, the cost remains for the victim.

How much does a helicopter rescue cost?

Answer: Prices usually vary between 2,500 and 10,000 euros.They depend on the difficulty of the terrain, the duration of the flight and the time of the action.Night operations are significantly more expensive.The costs can reach five-figure sums in BGN.

How do I check if my policy includes helicopter rescue?

Answer: Read the terms and conditions and look for the terms "air transport" or "air rescue".If they are not explicitly noted, then they are not included.Request written confirmation from the insurer.This is the surest way to make sure.

Who pays if I don't have helicopter cover?

Answer: The costs are borne by the victim himself.The Mountain Rescue Service does not pay for air transport.The bill may be issued subsequently and is subject to collection.This is a serious financial risk without proper insurance.

When is it most important to have helicopter coverage?

Answer: During transitions in high mountain areas such as Rila and Pirin.For mountaineering, climbing and off-piste riding it is also highly recommended.In bad weather conditions, the risk is greater.The more difficult the terrain, the more important the coverage.

Does mountain insurance cover the costs of mountain rescue by helicopter in Bulgaria?

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