PILOT SCHOOLS IN KENYA
Kenya School of Flying
Sky Link Flight Services
Standard Aviation LTD
Ninety Nines Flying Club
Proactive Air Services
Flight Training Center LTD
Welcome to this country in Africa, where many people visit to experience safari camps and explore national parks with wild animals. There are many places where one can start training toward obtaining a pilot license and ratings. It is cheaper to become a pilot in Kenya because the cost of operating airplanes is lower, and pilot schools use older airplanes that are still registered and approved for training. This is one of the reasons why Kenya offers the most affordable routes to a pilot career, with options for obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL) at the same time.
Admission
The admission process involves negotiating between the pilot school and the student pilot who is about to continue their studies. At this stage, it’s important to choose a pilot school that is registered and has qualified instructors who can take a student from having no experience to being capable of flying an airplane alone and applying for a license. The airplanes and other training facilities, such as classrooms, should be checked at this stage. Pilot schools in Kenya typically advertise their conditions and services through websites and social media platforms to help prospective students understand what is involved in flying an airplane accurately.
Ground School
Ground school is used to provide theoretical knowledge about airplanes. It helps prepare pilots for the license or rating they are working toward. Most pilot schools in Kenya offer all types of license and rating courses, except for advanced type rating training, which usually requires training abroad. Students can choose from a variety of classes depending on their preferences and location. At Williamson Airport in Nairobi, ground schools are conducted regularly as new classes start on various courses.
Single Engine Airplane
Single-engine airplanes are commonly used to build flying experience at the beginning of a pilot’s training. A Private Pilot License and Commercial Pilot License can be obtained by flying single-engine airplanes, such as the Cessna 152 (used for PPL training) and Cessna 172 (used for CPL hour building, night ratings, and instrument ratings). These airplanes provide the necessary training for the first stages of a pilot’s career.
Multi-Engine Airplane
Some pilot schools in Kenya offer multi-engine aircraft for training after a student has completed their PPL. The multi-engine course is available when the student has a CPL and an instrument rating. Multi-engine training is recommended for those pursuing a more advanced aviation career, and although costs are higher, it is a valuable step for further career progression. Some pilot schools use older multi-engine airplanes for training, and there is more information available regarding how to proceed with further training in multi-engine aircraft.
Simulator
Simulators are one of the best tools for pilot training, allowing students to practice flight procedures from the ground, which saves time and money. Simulators are especially helpful for courses such as instrument ratings. Pilot schools in Kenya typically use basic simulators without full motion, which help students learn to operate instruments for instrument rating training. If simulators are unavailable at a particular school, ground school instruction may be used instead.
License
In Kenya, there are three types of licenses that students can obtain as they progress through their training: Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). While the cost of training varies, students should consider additional expenses such as uniforms, accommodation, and transportation when choosing a pilot school. Completing training in Kenya is generally more affordable than in other countries, but there are additional costs for living expenses.
Rating
A rating is an endorsement added to a pilot license that allows the pilot to fly specific types of aircraft. In Kenya, ratings such as instrument ratings and night ratings can be completed on single-engine airplanes that are approved for training. Cessna 172 aircraft are commonly used for these ratings. Ratings enhance a pilot’s qualifications and increase their job prospects, especially when pursuing a multi-engine rating or applying for airline positions.
Special Training
Special training includes courses for those who are unable to pursue higher levels of training, such as military pilot training. Although this type of training is not yet available in Kenya, it is a potential pathway for aspiring pilots to follow once they have completed their PPL. Flight clubs may be available but are not as active as those in foreign countries. Additionally, some pilots may choose to train as instructors to help teach new student pilots.
Conclusion
When choosing a place to study and become a pilot, factors such as the affordability of courses and favorable weather conditions for training should be considered. Kenya generally offers good weather for training throughout the year, making it an excellent destination for aspiring pilots. Living costs for international students are relatively low, and many graduates from Kenyan pilot schools are now working in private and commercial airlines. Always research and consider all costs involved, including accommodations and living expenses, when selecting a pilot school.