Kenya is experiencing a surge in drone technology as industries increasingly integrate drones into sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, surveillance, and filmmaking. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing all Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations and training in the country. To operate or train with drones legally in Kenya, entities must be licensed by KCAA.
As of 2024, there are 12 officially accredited drone schools in Kenya offering various training programs for aspiring drone pilots. Below is the updated list of these schools, along with their contact details:
Accredited Drone Schools in Kenya
- Kendrone Limited
Phone: +254 740 660 504
Email: info@kendrone.co.ke - Drone Space Limited
Phone: +254 713 028 115
Email: info@dronespace.co.ke - RPAS Training Academy (Astral Aerial)
Phone: +254 113 609 467
Email: operations@astral-aerial.com - Dronector Ltd
Phone: +254 758 466 693
Email: director@dronector.com - Fahari Aviation Ltd
Phone: +254 725 646 832
Email: training@fahariaviation.com - Expertdrones East Africa Ltd
Email: expertdroneseastafrica@gmail.com - Geoid Technologies Limited
Phone: +254 726 945 420
Email: info@geoidtechnologies.com - Osta Tech Limited
Phone: +254 110 093 226
Email: info@ostatech.co.ke - Stablegen Drone Limited
Phone: +254 110 093 226
Email: info@stablegen.co.ke - Africanair Groupe Ltd
Phone: +254 793 614 902
Email: info@africanairgroup.com - Versadrones Ltd
Phone: +254 722 999 600
Email: info@versadrones.net - Ecowings Solution Ltd
Phone: +254 703 537 556
Email: contact@ecowings.co.ke
KCAA Drone Licensing and Costs
To establish a drone training school, entities must first acquire a certificate from KCAA at a cost of Ksh 80,000. This license is renewed annually for Ksh 50,000. The RPAS (Remote Pilot Aircraft System) license is essential for drone operators, with training typically costing between Ksh 150,000 and Ksh 200,000, depending on the course and the institution.
Growth and Applications of Drones in Kenya
Since the lifting of the drone ban in 2020, Kenya has seen significant advancements in drone operations. Drones are increasingly used in healthcare for transporting medical supplies, in agriculture for crop monitoring, and in infrastructure for inspecting power lines. Kenya Power, for example, uses drones to inspect power grids, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. The film industry also leverages drone technology to capture unique aerial footage, further expanding the creative space.
Schools like Dronector Ltd and Kendrone Limited are playing key roles by providing specialized training to meet industry demands. Dronector’s programs include a four-week course for aspiring pilots, while Kendrone offers intensive five-day courses that culminate in licensing exams.
With increasing demand for skilled drone pilots across various sectors, these schools are crucial for keeping Kenya at the forefront of drone technology.
KCAA Contact Information
- Location: Aviation House, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi
- Phone: 020 682 7470 / 0728 606 570
- Email: info@kcaa.or.ke
The future of drone technology in Kenya is bright, with more institutions expected to receive KCAA certification and more sectors embracing the benefits of unmanned systems.
