Flying is an exhilarating and rewarding career that requires skill, knowledge, and a passion for aviation. If you’re based in Kenya and looking to pursue a career in aviation, you’re in luck.
Kenya has a rich history in aviation, and there are numerous aviation schools that provide top-notch training to aspiring pilots. But with so many options, choosing the best aviation school for your needs can be overwhelming.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best aviation schools in Kenya, taking a look at their facilities, programs, and reputation in the industry.
Whether you’re looking to become a private or commercial pilot, our guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your aviation education.
1. Kenya School of Flying
The Kenya School of flying is a professional flight training school in Kenya. It was founded in 1992 and since then it has trained lots of pilots in Kenya to become the best, they are known to specialize in professional flight training services and they are known to give students full access to simulators and aircraft for their training experience.
There are so many programs that this school offers, including the aviation holiday program which is meant for secondary school students and they can attain their Private Pilot License (PPL) before their KCSE results are out.
Aside from this the Kenya School of Flying offers accommodation as well to their students.Â
Requirements;
- The age of students must be 16 years and above.
- KCSE C+ and C+ in Mathematics, English, Geography and any one science.
- Five lessons of flight assessment.
- Photocopies of academic Papers, ID/Birth Certificate/Passport of the students.
- 6 passport-size photos are needed which include: three normal size and three 2cm x 2.5cm.
- A medical fitness certificate from an accredited Aviation Medical examiner.
- Three internal written evaluations in English, Math and Psychometric Testing.
2. East African School of Aviation
The East Africa School of Aviation is known as one of the best aviation schools in Kenya; that was founded in 1954.
It was originally meant to train telegraphic and telegraphic printer operators and was later expanded to cater or engineering technicians until 1982. The school was built on an 87-acre site and can train and help improve the aviation industry in Kenya.
They aim to increase the diversity of training programs, strengthen and sustain the school’s financial growth, develop and maintain a strong human resource for optimum performance and so much more.
This school offers diploma, postgraduate, undergraduate and professional programs in;
- Travel and Tourism
- Aviation
- Telecommunication Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Business Management
Studying at the East African School of Aviation allows you to do many things as the school is known, registered and accredited.
They are partners with some of Kenya’s leading aviation companies and brands.Â
3. West Rift Aviation School
Aside from being one of the best aviation schools in Kenya, this school is known to be one of Kenya’s leading affordable flight schools, established in 2013.
This school offers a wide range of courses at so many levels, including; PPL, CPL, ATPL, FOO, IR, and so much more.
Its mission is to offer high-quality, affordable and consistent aviation training to future aviators by providing an environment that is suitable for learning and growth.
This school has a club which is known as the West Rift Aviation Club. It focuses on young people aged 12-17 by allowing them to learn about aviation by being involved in various activities.Â
4. Flight Training Centre-Flying School
Flying with FTC gives you the opportunity of gaining more knowledge about aviation. They have a wide range of courses you can choose from and begin your aviation journey.
This school was founded in 2008; it boasts 15 aircraft that are used in teaching students.
Their programs include;
- Multi-Engine Training.
- Airline Transport Pilots License.
- Ground Flight School – Private Pilot License (PPL) & Commercial.
- Foreign License Conversion.
- Simulator Training.
- Instructor course
- Pilot License.
- Instrument rating.
- Type Rating.
This school operates all year round, from Monday through Saturday and they have their holidays through the Christmas period.Â
5. Ninety-Nine Flying School
This dedicated flying training organization caters to the private and commercial sectors. This school has established a good reputation in East Africa for offering the best training on flight services in the region.
This school has so many courses and enough areas of expertise that they can use in teaching you about the aviation industry, as there is so much to learn.
It was established in 1975 and since then, they have provided lots of pilots in the Kenyan aviation industry that are experienced and well-trained.Â
The courses available are;
- Private Pilots License (PPL)
- Airline Transport Pilots License (ATPL)
- Commercial Pilots License (CPL)
- Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (MIR)
- Qualified Flying Instructors Course (QFI)
6. Capital Connect Aviation
This school was established in 2014 to provide quality, safe, recognized flight training. This school is known as one of the best because they have the best instructors.
They can fly and instruct on different aircraft and are ready to equip students with the needed knowledge.
This school is known for having so many courses, including PPL, CPL and many more and they make sure that their students get the required license and jobs that are needed to function in the aviation industry.Â
7. Nairobi Flight Training Limited
This flight training school is a private institution established in 2007 and is known for offering affordable flight training services. This aviation school has many courses to offer and you can start almost immediately.
Their main objective is to train prospective pilots and equip them with the right professional skills to enable them to become competent and responsible pilots.
Highly respected professionals run this institution in the field and have adequate instructors. They have all the facilities that are needed to instil knowledge in the minds of the students and make them capable in the aviation industry.Â
8. Kenyan Aeronautical College
This school was established in 2003 and has maintained a tradition of excellence all year round, they are fully equipped with the right equipment that enables students to grasp what is being taught in class without much struggle.
There are so many courses you can take up in this institution which include; cabin crew, flight operations and dispatch officer, pilot training, and maintenance engineering.
They have a wide range of degree courses, certificate courses and diploma courses that you can apply for and their fees are affordable which makes them have lots of students.
9. Alpha Aviation Flying School
Alpha Aviation Flying School has been known as one of the best in Kenya over the years. This school is well equipped with all the facilities that students need to learn.
They have a fleet of 6 aircraft and lots of professionals that can put students on the right track and get them started with a career in flying.
They do also have all the major courses that are needed from you to fast-track your aviation career and even those that are not interested in flying can pick up other courses.Â
10. Kenyan Airways Pride Centre
One of the best aviation schools in Kenya and they offer lots of courses that you can easily apply and study. They have professionals that are ready to teach you about the aviation industry and aside from flying there are other courses you can easily pick from.
When it comes to equipment and facilities, this school is known for having a wide range of them and their security services are top notches and they provide a free internet connection for students.Â
How to identify best aviation schools in Kenya
1. Research
Start by doing some research on the aviation schools available in Kenya. You can use search engines like Google or Bing, or you can check out aviation industry websites, forums, or directories.
2. Accreditation
Check if the aviation school is accredited by the relevant aviation regulatory bodies in Kenya. Accreditation ensures that the aviation school meets the minimum requirements and standards for aviation training.
3. Reputation
Look for reviews or ratings of the aviation schools you’re interested in. You can check online reviews, ask for recommendations from people who have attended the school or work in the aviation industry, or read articles or reports about the school.
4. Curriculum and Facilities
Check the school’s curriculum, facilities, and equipment to ensure that they are up-to-date and in line with industry standards. You should also check if the school has modern training equipment and simulators.
5. Faculty and Staff
Check the qualifications and experience of the school’s faculty and staff. They should have the necessary certifications, licenses, and experience to teach aviation courses.
6. Student Services
Check the aviation school’s student services, such as career counseling, job placement assistance, and student support services. These services can be very helpful in helping you to succeed in your aviation career.
7. Cost
Consider the cost of tuition and other fees when selecting an aviation school. Make sure you can afford the school’s fees and determine whether the cost is worth the quality of education you will receive.
FAQs
1. What are the best aviation schools in Kenya?
There are several top aviation schools in Kenya, including Kenya School of Flying, Flight Training Centre (FTC), Ninety Nines Flying School, and East African School of Aviation.
2. What courses are offered by aviation schools in Kenya?
Aviation schools in Kenya offer a variety of courses such as private pilot license (PPL), commercial pilot license (CPL), airline transport pilot license (ATPL), aircraft maintenance engineering (AME), air traffic control (ATC), cabin crew training, and aviation management courses.
3. How long does it take to complete a course at an aviation school in Kenya?
The duration of the course varies depending on the program and the school. For example, a private pilot license course may take about six months, while a commercial pilot license may take up to two years.
4. What are the entry requirements for aviation schools in Kenya?
The entry requirements for aviation schools in Kenya vary depending on the course and the school. Generally, applicants need to have a minimum of a high school diploma, a valid medical certificate, and be at least 17 years of age.
5. How much does it cost to attend an aviation school in Kenya?
The cost of attending aviation school in Kenya varies depending on the course and the school. For example, a private pilot license course may cost around Ksh 1,500,000, while a commercial pilot license may cost up to Ksh 5,000,000.
6. What are the job opportunities available after completing an aviation course in Kenya?
There are various job opportunities available after completing an aviation course in Kenya, such as becoming a commercial pilot, an aircraft maintenance engineer, an air traffic controller, a cabin crew member, or an aviation manager.
7. Is financial assistance available for students attending aviation schools in Kenya?
Some aviation schools in Kenya offer financial assistance, such as scholarships or student loans. Students can also explore other funding options, such as government student loans or private student loans.