Howden forms new aviation division with two acquisitions 

Reinsurer Howden has acquired aviation specialist Forbes Insurance and the book of business from Hill Aviation Insurance Services.  

Financial terms of the deal were not revealed.  

Both acquired entities will be rebranded as Howden, creating a new specialist aviation division within Howden UK&I. Additionally, the team will set up a new Howden office in Leicester. 

Forbes Insurance, an independent general insurance broker founded by Terry Moyes and based in Leicestershire, is known for offering commercial and private client insurances in the aviation niche across the UK.  

Hill Aviation is a North Yorkshire-based general aviation insurance broker established in 1991.  

Its founder Steve Hill is set to retire from his career in aviation insurance.  

The new aviation division will offer cover options to aircraft maintenance companies, airfield operators, employers’ liability, fixed and rotary wing aircraft, gliding and flying clubs, gliders and motor-gliders, glider tugs and other aviation-related businesses.

Moyes will head Howden’s new aviation team and the new Leicester office.  

Moyes said: “The Howden culture is very attractive, and the company is still run by the founder and is 30% employee-owned, which means that, despite its size, clients are still the most important thing. Forming a successful new aviation division and a new Howden Leicester office for general insurance business is a challenge that the team and I are really looking forward to.” 

Howden UK&I Midlands commercial division regional managing director Jim Stevenson said: “I am delighted to welcome Terry and the Forbes team to strengthen our East Midlands presence, and we look forward to extending our retail specialisms into aviation for commercial and private clients throughout the UK. 

“After a short period where he will be working with us on a consultancy basis, we wish Steve a happy and well-earned retirement. Steve knows the Forbes team are the best in the market to carry on looking after his clients to the high standards he set, and Terry and our Leicester team will ensure his former clients are in safe hands.”