How to Become a Pilot in Kenya

There is a high chance you know about pilots or have even interacted with one. But do you know how to become a pilot in Kenya?

Pilots are some of the best-paid professionals in the country. This career also attracts some of the best brains across. This is because the journey to becoming a pilot is not as easy. It requires many hours of learning, dedication, and resources to get there.

According to the Kenya civil aviation authority, there are three main classes of licenses available for pilots.

1. Students license
2. Private pilot license
3. Commercial pilot license

1. Students license

As the name suggests, this license is given to students mostly for piloting training purposes. Hence, you get it when you begin your lessons. It can also be used to gain training hours if the other class license is expired.

Some of the requirements to get the license include;

• Be at least 16 years of age
• Have a valid class 2 medical certificate
• Ability to speak, write and understand the English language
• Payment of the 1000 shillings application fees
• Submit a filled application form.

2. Private pilot license-

Also known as the private pilot certificate, it is a license that shows you can fly an aircraft. However, it does not allow flying for paid or commercial aircraft. It acts as the bridge to getting a commercial license.

Below are the requirements to obtain a private pilot license.

• Be at least 17 years of age
• Have a valid class 2 medical certificate
• A knowledge test endorsement by an instructor in the student’s pilot’s logbook
• Pass the PPL knowledge test
• Meet the set aeronautical requirements of the aircraft category
• Have a flight training instructor endorsement
• Pass the Private pilot license practical test
• Pass the English language proficiency test

3. Commercial Pilot license

This is the license given to pilots who wish to undertake piloting as a career. It allows you to fly commercial airplanes or for hire.