Commercial Pilot License Requirements

The Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is issued by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCCA) and allows individuals to fly airplanes for compensation or hire. As of recent updates, the Civil Aviation Authority of Kenya (CAAK) oversees aviation regulations and licensing in the country. The process of obtaining a CPL in Kenya follows international standards, with specific requirements tailored to local aviation regulations.

Requirements to Obtain a Commercial Pilot License in Kenya

To qualify for a CPL in Kenya, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

1. Be at Least 18 Years of Age
   The applicant must be at least 18 years old to qualify for a CPL.
2. Hold a Class 1 Medical Certificate
   A valid Class 1 medical certificate is required to ensure the applicant meets the necessary health and fitness standards for commercial flying.
3. Possess a Private Pilot License (PPL)
   The applicant must already hold a Kenyan Private Pilot License (PPL) or meet the requirements for applying for a military license or converting a foreign license.
4. Receive a Logbook Endorsement from a Certified Instructor
   The applicant must undergo training and receive an endorsement from a certified instructor who:
   • Conducts training on aeronautical knowledge areas relevant to the aircraft category or class rating sought.
   • Certifies that the applicant is prepared for the required knowledge test.
5. Pass the Required Knowledge Test
   The applicant must successfully complete the knowledge test covering relevant aeronautical topics.
6. Meet Aeronautical Experience Requirements
   Before applying for the practical test, the applicant must complete the necessary flight experience as per the applicable provisions for the aircraft category and class rating sought.
7. Receive Additional Training and Logbook Endorsement
   Another endorsement from an authorized instructor is required, certifying that the applicant has:
   • Completed training on areas of operation relevant to the aircraft category and class rating sought.
   • Demonstrated readiness for the required practical test.
8. Pass the Practical Test (General Flight Test – GFT)
   The applicant must pass a General Flight Test (GFT) on areas of operation relevant to the aircraft category and class rating sought.
9. Pass the English Language Proficiency Exam
   The applicant must pass the English language proficiency test and attain one of the following levels:
   • Operational Level 4 (valid for 3 years)
   • Extended Level 5 (valid for 6 years)
   • Expert Level 6 (valid for life)

Application Requirements

To apply for a CPL in Kenya, the applicant must submit the following documents:

• Fully completed CPL application forms (available on KCCA’s website).
• A valid Class 1 medical certificate.
• Four passport-size photographs (2cm by 2.5cm, full face).
• A photo identification document (ID card, passport, or birth certificate) along with a copy.
• Certified copies of the last two pages of the personal logbook, showing the latest flying experience certified by the pilot’s supervisor.
• Payment of the prescribed application fee (Kshs 4,500).

Kenya Civil Aviation Authority Contact Information

For further inquiries, you can contact the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority at:

• Location: Aviation House, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi.
• Phone: 020 682 7470 / 0728 606 570.

By following these steps and meeting the necessary requirements, aspiring pilots can obtain their Commercial Pilot License and begin their professional aviation careers in Kenya.

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