Cost of pilot training in Kenya: Becoming a pilot is a dream shared by many aviation enthusiasts in Kenya.
The allure of soaring through the skies, navigating complex flight paths, and feeling accomplished as a pilot draws one from all walks of life to pursue a career in aviation.
However, becoming a pilot is not without its challenges, with one of the most important factors to consider being the cost of pilot training.
So, if you’re an aspiring pilot who wants to know how much it costs to become a pilot in Kenya, you’ve come to the right place.
Keep reading to find out more.
Cost of pilot training in Kenya (pilot training cost in Kenya)
The cost of pilot training in Kenya varies depending on the flight school.
Furthermore, the fees charged also vary depending on the type of licensing that you wish to obtain.
To be more specific, pilot training is a multi-stage process that includes the Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and additional ratings like Instrument Rating (IR) and Multi-Engine Rating (MER).
Needless to say, each of these licenses comes with different privileges and allows the pilot to fly different types of aircraft for different purposes, such as helicopters, cargo planes, and commercial planes.
In general, the cost of studying piloting in Kenya ranges between Kshs. 800,000 and Kshs. 3,000,000 or more.
It should also be noted that the prices primarily cover flying hours, course work, and pilot kits, which include the uniform.
However, the price could go higher due to other costs, such as course books and other hidden expenses.
Helicopter pilot training cost in Kenya
The cost of helicopter pilot training in Kenya varies depending on the flight school, the type of training, and the specific type of helicopter you want to fly.
In general, helicopter pilot training is quite expensive, with costs ranging from Kshs 5,000,000 to Kshs 10,000,000 for both theory and flying lessons.
For example, helicopter pilot training costs Kshs. 6,000,000 at Wings Over Africa Aviation Limited.
In addition, if you are starting from scratch and have no prior flight experience, you will need to budget for additional flight hours before obtaining a commercial pilot license.
Requirements for pilot course in Kenya
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) regulates the requirements for a pilot course in Kenya.
They are as follows:
- KCSE mean grade of C (plain) with a C (plain) in English, Mathematics, and Physics/Chemistry/Physical Science. However, most flying schools require you to have a KCSE mean grade of C+ (plus), with at least a C+ (plus) in Mathematics, English, Geography, and Chemistry/Physics/Physical Science.
- You must be at least 16 years old.
- A Class II medical fitness certificate from an accredited aviation medical examiner
- At least 6 passport-size photos.
- proficiency in English
- Have a certificate of good conduct
Institutions offering pilot training in Kenya
To point you in the right direction, we’ll look at the costs of pilot training at some of the best flying schools in Kenya.
1. Pilot training cost at Kenya School of Flying
The Kenya School of Flying is a well-known flight training school that offers a variety of aviation and flying courses.
Among their programs are Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Multi-Engine Rating (MER), and Instrumental Rating (IR).
Their PPL course takes 4 to 6 months to complete and costs around Kshs. 1,014,000, whereas their CPL course takes 8 to 12 months and costs approximately Kshs. 3,000,000.
Kenya school of flying contacts:
Location: Wilson Airport, Off Lang’ata Road, Nairobi.
Phone no.: 0722 754 580 or 0733 777 582
Email: studentcoordinator@flyingschool.co.ke
Website: https://kenyaschoolofflying.com/
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2. Mt. Kenya Flight School Fees Structure
Mt. Kenya Flight School is also one of the most affordable and professional flight training schools in Kenya.
Among the courses available at Mt. Kenya Flight School are the private pilot license course and the commercial pilot license course.
The following is a breakdown of their fee structure:
Private Pilot License fee structure
| PPL ITEMS | COST (KSHS.) |
| Flight time 45hrs @22,000 | 990,000 |
| Registration | 6,000 |
| Ground school instruction course | 120,000 |
| Stationary/Equipment/Uniform | 110,000 |
| Air navigation service charges | 10,000 |
| TOTAL | 1,236,000 |
| KCAA FEES | |
| KCAA PPL GFT booking | 2,000 |
| KCAA PPL Ground exams/RT/English proficiency | 17,000 |
| KCAA PPL License application | 2,000 |
| APPRPOXIMATE MINIMUM TOTAL | 1,257,000 |
Commercial Pilot License fee structure
| CPL ITEMS (2-5 MONTHS) | COST (KSHS.) |
| Flight tine 155hrs @22,000 | 3,410,000 |
| Registration (for new students) | 6,000 |
| Ground school instruction course | 180,000 |
| Air navigation service charges | 15,000 |
| TOTAL | 3,611,000 |
| KCAA FEES | |
| KCAA PPL GFT booking | 2,000 |
| KCAA Ground exams/RT/English proficiency | 20,000 |
| KCA License application | 4,500 |
| APPROXIMATE MINIMUM TOTAL | 3,637,500 |
| CPL KCAA Examiners fee(paid directly to the examiner) Kshs. 40,000 ($400) | |
Location: Nanyuki Airstrip, Along Nanyuki-Nyeri Highway, Nanyuki.
Phone: 0758 813 228
Email: info@mtkenyaflightschool.co.ke
Website: https://mtkenyaflightschool.co.ke/
3. Flight Training Centre
The Flight Training Centre is well-equipped and facilitated to ensure that students have a better training experience in a safe environment.
It is based at Wilson Airport in Nairobi and offers the Private Pilot License course for Kshs. 840,000, as well as the Commercial Private License course for Kshs. 2,809,000.
To contact the school, call this number; 0706 091 811.
As you can see from the above fee summary, a commercial pilot license costs more than a private pilot license.
Why?
This is due to the fact that the PPL only serves as a foundation course on the path to a Commercial Pilot’s License, allowing you to fly for personal and recreational purposes, as well as non-compensated, non-commercial activities.
Commercial pilots, on the other hand, train as private pilots who want to pursue a career in aviation and be compensated for their flying services.
Cost of Pilot Training in Kenya – final thoughts
Keep in mind that pilot training can be an expensive endeavor, with additional costs arising throughout the process.
Besides, it is an ambitious and rewarding pursuit, but it necessitates a significant financial investment.
So, before committing to training, it is important to research various flight schools, compare their training programs, and understand all of the costs involved.
In addition, inquire about any potential scholarships or financing options that may be available to assist with the costs of flight training.
Please keep in mind that fees are subject to change, so it’s best to contact your preferred flight school directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information on pilot training costs.
Now, with the above-mentioned estimated pilot training fee, you will be able to make informed decisions, effectively plan your finances, and confidently embark on your journey to the skies.
Good luck!
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