What is this course?
Our RPL Conversion Program is specifically designed for qualified drone pilots holding valid foreign certifications who need to operate commercially in Kenya. This streamlined course focuses on Kenya-specific aviation regulations, local airspace procedures, cultural considerations, and KCAA compliance requirements. Rather than starting from scratch, we build upon your existing knowledge and experience to ensure smooth integration into the Kenyan aviation environment.
Perfect for
Foreign-certified drone pilots relocating to Kenya, international contractors working on Kenyan projects, expatriate pilots seeking local certification, tourism and film industry professionals, international aid and development workers, and global aviation companies establishing Kenyan operations.
Course Structure
Our comprehensive training program consists of four essential phases designed to transform you into a certified remote pilot
Documentation Review & Gap Analysis
Comprehensive review of your existing foreign certification, flight experience, and training records. Our instructors conduct a detailed gap analysis to identify specific areas requiring focus based on your current qualification level and the differences between your home country's regulations and KCAA requirements.
Assessment includes:
- Foreign license verification and validation
- Flight hour documentation and logbook review
- Previous training curriculum comparison
- Identification of knowledge gaps and required updates
- Customized training plan development
- Timeline and requirements clarification
- Documentation preparation for KCAA submission
Kenya-Specific Theory Training
Focused theoretical training covering Kenya-specific aviation regulations, local procedures, and cultural considerations essential for safe and legal drone operations in Kenyan airspace.
Key topics include:
- KCAA regulations and certification requirements
- Kenyan airspace classification and restricted areas
- Local weather patterns and seasonal considerations
- Cultural sensitivity and community engagement protocols
- Emergency procedures and local emergency contacts
- Insurance and liability requirements in Kenya
- Import/export regulations for drone equipment
- Local aviation terminology and radio procedures
- Kenyan aviation authority interfaces and procedures
Local Airspace Familiarization
Practical training in Kenyan airspace with emphasis on local procedures, communication protocols, and operational considerations unique to the Kenyan aviation environment.
Training components:
- Airspace structure and coordination procedures
- Radio communication with Kenyan ATC
- Local airport and helipad procedures
- Wildlife and environmental considerations
- Urban flight restrictions and no-fly zones
- Coordination with local aviation authorities
- Emergency landing site identification
- Local weather monitoring and reporting systems
- Seasonal operational considerations
KCAA Compliance Assessment
Final evaluation to ensure full compliance with KCAA requirements, including theoretical examination on Kenya-specific content and practical flight assessment to demonstrate competency in local operating procedures.
Assessment includes:
- KCAA theoretical examination (Kenya-specific content)
- Practical flight test with local scenarios
- Emergency procedure demonstration
- Radio communication assessment
- Documentation and record-keeping evaluation
- Final certification processing
Requirements
Age Requirement
Minimum age of 18 years for RPL (Remote Pilot License) certification
Medical Certificate
Valid medical certificate from home country or willingness to obtain Kenyan Class 3 Aviation Medical Certificate.
Prerequisite Licenses
Valid drone pilot license from a recognized aviation authority (FAA, EASA, CASA, Transport Canada, etc.). License must be current and in good standing with no suspensions or violations. Minimum 20 hours documented flight experience required, with preference for commercial operation experience.
What You'll Achieve
Certification Earned
Certifcate of Completion
Validity Period
2 years
Issuing Authority
KCAA