Over the past decade, drones have become increasingly essential across various industries, revolutionizing sectors such as aerial photography, surveying, mapping, agriculture, and infrastructure inspections. In Kenya, the demand for drone services has risen sharply, creating opportunities for aspiring drone pilots. Whether for commercial, agricultural, or recreational purposes, obtaining drone operation skills has become crucial.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) regulates drone operations and certifies training institutions that meet aviation standards. Below is a comprehensive list of some of the best KCAA-approved drone training schools in Kenya.
1. Stablegen Drones Academy
Founded in 2018, Stablegen Drones Academy, operated by Stablegen Investment Limited, offers services ranging from drone sales to pilot training and maintenance. The institution provides specialized courses for agriculture, inspections, and mapping, ensuring students acquire practical and technical knowledge.
- Location: Kisaju, near The East African University
- Contacts: +254 726 676 041, 020 200 6041
2. Kendrone
Kendrone is among the pioneering drone training institutions in Kenya, offering both recreational and commercial training programs. The academy’s Remote Pilot License (RPL) course covers essential topics such as air law, meteorology, navigation, and aviation safety. Training is conducted at multiple locations, including Nairobi and Mombasa.
- Locations:
- Mombasa – Greenwood Resort, Mtwapa
- Nairobi – St. Elizabeth Boys High School, Karen
- Naivasha – Kedong Ranch, South Lake Road
- Contacts: +254 740 660 504, +254 702 450 820
3. Dronector Academy
Dronector Academy, based in Nairobi, offers diverse drone programs including fixed-wing operations and flight instructor training. The academy also provides DIY drone-building courses for hobbyists. In addition to drone pilot training, they offer aerial photography, mapping, and survey services.
- Location: Wilson Airport, Nairobi
- Contacts: +254 758 466 693
4. Drone Space Kenya
Drone Space Kenya delivers international-standard drone courses, focusing on both theory and practical skills. In addition to drone training, they offer commercial drone services like solar inspections, mapping, seeding, and cinematography.
- Location: Prosperity House, 6th Floor, Chiromo, Westlands, Nairobi
- Contacts: +254 713 028 115, +254 750 939 105
5. Astral Aerial Solutions
Operating through the RPAS Training Academy, Astral Aerial offers courses tailored to different industries. Their RPAS Pilot License (RPL) training is recognized by KCAA and covers a wide range of topics, including air law, human performance, and navigation. They also offer specialized programs in agriculture, security, and infrastructure inspection.
- Location: Matundu Close, off School Lane, Nairobi
- Contacts: +254 113 609 467
6. Geoid Training Academy
Geoid Training Academy, part of Geoid Technologies, specializes in GIS mapping, land surveying, and drone pilot training. Their programs are suitable for students at all skill levels, from beginners to those with prior aviation knowledge.
- Location: Astrol Petrol Station, Thika Road
- Contacts: +254 726 945 420
7. Kenya Flying Labs
Kenya Flying Labs offers AI, data analytics, and drone training targeted at the humanitarian and development sectors. Their training programs emphasize youth empowerment through initiatives like the Kenya Drone Business Competition.
- Location: 209 Mbaruk Road, Nairobi
- Contacts: +254 720 950 220
8. Expert Drones East Africa (EDEA)
A collaboration with Expert Drones USA, EDEA focuses on wildlife conservation, environmental management, and commercial drone operations. Their courses are designed to meet KCAA requirements and specialize in conservation and environmental drone applications.
- Location: Watermark Place, Ndege Road, Karen
- Training Area: Lemek Conservancy, Maasai Mara, Narok
- Contacts: +254 733 333 355
9. Versadrones Limited
Versadrones Limited offers multi-rotor Remote Pilot License (RPL) training that meets the Civil Aviation (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Regulations, 2020. Their programs feature both theory and practical sessions, culminating in a Flight Examiner evaluation for successful licensing.
- Location: Langata House, Wilson Airport, Nairobi
- Contacts: +254 722 999 600
Choosing the Best Drone School in Kenya
The increasing integration of drones into diverse sectors means that trained drone pilots are in high demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, environmental monitoring, and film-making. Enrolling in a KCAA-accredited school ensures students receive training that meets regulatory and industry standards, paving the way for successful careers in drone technology.
These institutions provide not only Remote Pilot License (RPL) certification but also advanced, sector-specific courses that prepare pilots to meet market demands. Whether you’re looking to start a career in aerial photography, agriculture, or industrial inspections, these schools offer the necessary skills and certifications to help you succeed.
