Career & Employment

Complete Guide to West Rift Aviation School Fee Structure

West rift Aviation

West Rift Aviation, established in 2013, is one of Kenya’s leading aviation schools, accredited by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). Located at Building No. 17A, Wilson Airport, Nairobi, the school provides comprehensive training for aspiring pilots and aviation professionals. In this article, we’ll explore the courses offered by West Rift Aviation and their corresponding fee structure.

1. Private Pilot License (PPL)

The Private Pilot License (PPL) is designed for individuals aiming to become licensed pilots for personal, recreational, or private flying. This course equips students with essential knowledge and skills for safe flying.

  • Duration: 8 months
  • Admission Requirements:
    • Must be 17 years or older
    • KCSE mean grade of C+ or equivalent certificate with a minimum of C+
    • Valid medical certificate
    • National ID or Passport
    • Admission fee of USD 30

PPL Fees Breakdown:

Aspect of TrainingCost (USD)
Cessna / 152 Trainer (C150 / 152 / 172) @ USD 210 per 40 hours (minimum)8,400
Ground school course (Full-time classes 8 am – 4 pm)1,200
Total for PPL on Cessna / 152 Trainer C150 / 152 / 1729,600

2. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

The Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is for individuals who wish to become professional pilots. This course involves more advanced training compared to the PPL, including more flying hours and intensive ground schooling.

  • Duration:
    • Cessna / 150 / 152 Trainer: 14 months
    • Cessna 172 Trainer or Piper PA 28: 12 months
    • Ground School Course: 6 months

CPL Fees Breakdown:

Aspect of TrainingCost (USD)
Cessna / 150 / 152 / 172 Trainer, Piper PA 28 (160 hours @ USD 210)33,600
Ground school course (400 hours minimum)1,800
Total for CPL on Cessna / 150 / 152 / 172 Trainer, Piper PA 2835,400

3. Flight Instructor Course

For experienced pilots, West Rift Aviation offers a Flight Instructor Course that prepares students to become qualified instructors capable of training future pilots. This is a specialized course for holders of a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

  • Requirements:
    • Must hold a current KCAA Commercial Pilot Certificate
    • Valid medical certificate (Class 1)
    • At least 10 hours of recent flight time
    • Preparedness to pass Stage One written exams and evaluation

Flight Instructor Course Fees Breakdown:

Aspect of TrainingCost (USD)
Ground school (60 hours – 2 months)2,000
Flying (20 hours – 2 months)4,200
Examination150
Total6,350

Additional Courses Offered at West Rift Aviation

Apart from the core PPL, CPL, and Flight Instructor courses, West Rift Aviation also offers specialized aviation training programs, including:

  • Instrument Rating: A course that focuses on flying aircraft solely by reference to instruments.
  • Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL): This is the highest level of pilot certification, allowing holders to act as pilot-in-command on aircrafts in commercial air transport.
  • Flight Dispatch: A course that equips learners with the skills to manage flight operations, including weather analysis, fuel calculations, and flight planning.

Contact West Rift Aviation

For inquiries about courses, fees, or admissions, you can contact West Rift Aviation through the following channels:


With its state-of-the-art facilities and experienced instructors, West Rift Aviation offers quality aviation training for those aiming to start or advance their careers in the aviation industry. Whether you’re looking to obtain a private or commercial pilot license or become a flight instructor, the school provides a solid foundation for your aviation ambitions.