The US Government has legislated to limit non-passengers’ ability to sue US airlines. After all, while the airlines may face liability exposures as a result of the hijackers being allowed through security checks, insurers argue they can’t be blamed for the hijackers’ actions in turning the aircraft into literal bombs.

Both American Airlines and United had coverage limits of about $1.5 billion each. Their insurer is Global Aerospace Underwriting Management, underwritten by CGNU, Chubb, Mitsui Marine, Munich Re, Royal & SunAlliance, Tokio Marine and Zurich.

The cost of the hull claims for the four aircraft lost in the attacks will be $130 million. They are expected to be settled quickly.