Founded in 1992, the Kenya School of Flying (KSOF) is a premier aviation training institution in Kenya, accredited by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). With its main campus at Wilson Airport in Nairobi and additional flight bases in Malindi, Orly Airpark (Isinya), and Ukunda Airstrip, KSOF offers a range of courses to prepare aspiring pilots and aeronautical engineers for rewarding careers in aviation. Known for its rigorous training and state-of-the-art facilities, KSOF provides programs such as the Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Initial Multi-engine/Instrument Rating, Flight Instructor Rating (FIR), Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering, and a unique Holiday Programme for young aviation enthusiasts. Below is a detailed overview of KSOF’s courses, entry requirements, and fee structures, designed to guide prospective students toward achieving their aviation goals.
Entry Requirements
To ensure candidates are well-prepared for the demands of aviation training, KSOF enforces specific academic, health, and aptitude requirements.
- Academic Requirements for Pilot Courses
A minimum mean grade of C+ in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), with C+ or higher in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Geography. - Academic Requirements for Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering
A minimum mean grade of C plain in KCSE, with C plain or higher in Mathematics, Physics or Physical Science, and English. - Health Requirements
Candidates must pass a physical and mental health examination conducted by a KCAA-approved medical practitioner, including mandatory drug tests. For the Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering, a Class I Medical Certificate is required, along with valid medical insurance. - Aptitude Test
KSOF conducts an Aptitude Test Entrance Exam (ATEE) to assess aspiring pilots’ suitability, costing KES 100,000 and including one week of free accommodation at Orly Airpark.
Kenya School of Flying Courses and Fee Structure
1. Private Pilot License (PPL)
This six-month course equips students with the skills to fly single-engine aircraft, including 50 hours of flying time, ground school instruction, revision, a general flight test, and Morse code training.
Fee Structure (Phase 1: PPL, Approx. 6 Months)
| Description | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Flying Hours and Revision (50 hours @ USD 210) | 10,500 |
| Ground School Tuition | 1,200 |
| Stationery, Equipment, Uniform | 1,020 |
| First Aid Course (St John Ambulance) | 95 |
| Return Ticket to Malindi/Ukunda (Approx.) | 200 |
| Air Navigation Service Charges | 150 |
| Subtotal | 13,165 |
| KCAA Fees | |
| KCAA PPL General Flight Test (GFT) Booking | 20 |
| KCAA PPL Ground Exams, Radio Telephony, English Proficiency | 170 |
| KCAA PPL License Application | 32 |
| Subtotal KCAA Fees | 222 |
| Approximate Total | 13,387 |
| Note: An additional USD 200 is paid directly to the KCAA examiner for the PPL General Flight Test. |
2. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
This 8–12-month course builds on PPL training, preparing students for professional piloting with 155 additional flying hours (beyond the 45 PPL hours) and advanced ground school instruction.
Fee Structure (Phase 2: CPL, Approx. 8–12 Months)
| Description | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Flying Hours (155 hours @ USD 210) | 31,500 |
| Ground School Tuition | 1,800 |
| Return Ticket to Malindi/Ukunda (Approx.) | 200 |
| Subtotal | 33,500 |
| KCAA Fees | |
| KCAA CPL Ground Exams | 200 |
| KCAA PPL Type Technical Rating (C 210) | 50 |
| KCAA Gas Turbine & Performance Exam | 41 |
| KCAA CPL General Flight Test Booking | 20 |
| KCAA CPL License Application | 45 |
| Subtotal KCAA Fees | 356 |
| Approximate Total | 33,856 |
| Note: An additional USD 400 is paid directly to the KCAA examiner for the CPL General Flight Test. |
3. Initial Multi-engine/Instrument Rating
This six-week course trains pilots to operate multi-engine aircraft under Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), requiring 45 hours of training (20 hours on an approved simulator and 20 hours on a Twin Seneca PA34).
Fee Structure (Phase 3: Multi/IR Ratings, Approx. 2 Months)
| Description | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Simulator Training (20 hours @ USD 65) | 1,300 |
| Twin Seneca PA34 (20 hours @ USD 600) | 12,000 |
| General Flight Test (3 hours @ USD 600) | 1,800 |
| Subtotal | 15,100 |
| KCAA Fees | |
| KCAA Type Technical Rating (PA34) | 50 |
| KCAA Exam Booking | 40 |
| KCAA Multi/IR License Endorsement | 40 |
| Subtotal KCAA Fees | 130 |
| Approximate Total | 15,230 |
| Note: An additional USD 500 is paid directly to the KCAA examiner for the General Flight Test. |
4. Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering
This three-year, full-time program trains students in aircraft design, maintenance, and engineering, combining theoretical and practical training.
Curriculum Focus
- Aerodynamics: Principles of flight and aircraft design.
- Airframe Structures: Understanding aircraft frameworks.
- Piston Engines: Engine systems and maintenance techniques.
- Practical Training: Hands-on experience in advanced workshops.
Fee Structure (Year 1, KES)
| Term | Amount (KES) |
|——|————–|
| 1st Term | 89,500 |
| 2nd Term | 65,000 |
| 3rd Term | 55,000 |
| Total | 210,000 |
Note: Meals and accommodation are available at KES 15,000 per month.
5. Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)
Designed for CPL holders, this course prepares pilots for the complexities of airline operations, enhancing their knowledge and skills.
Requirements
- Minimum age of 21 years.
- Valid Class 1 Medical Certificate.
- Current CPL and Instrument Rating.
- Passing a type rating exam for the specific aircraft category.
- Meeting required flight hours and passing a practical test.
Note: Specific fee details are available upon inquiry, as costs vary based on aircraft type and training needs.
6. Holiday Programme for Aspiring Young Pilots
Aimed at high school students aged 13–17, this program, held in Diani, Ukunda, introduces young enthusiasts to aviation through hands-on and educational experiences.
Program Components
- Ground School Training: Introduction to aviation fundamentals through engaging classroom sessions.
- Hands-On Flying Experience: 3 hours of flight instruction at KES 24,000 per hour, guided by expert instructors.
- Character Formation: Workshops on life skills, ethics, and personal development.
- Inspiring Speakers: Guest talks on ethics, religion, and life skills.
- Excursions: Trips to the Indian Ocean and Bora Bora Wildlife Park.
Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (KES) |
|————-|————–|
| Flying Experience (3 hours @ KES 24,000) | 72,000 |
| Accommodation (14 nights, 1 free night @ KES 1,500/day) | 21,000 |
| Return Ticket | 12,500 |
| Uniforms (Epaulettes, 2 Trousers, 2 Shirts) | 11,200 |
| Checklist, C150 Manual, Progress Book | 2,200 |
| Recreation Trip | 1,500 |
| Total | 132,900 |
Contact Information
- Location: Wilson Airport, off Langata Road, Nairobi
- Phone: +254 722 754 580, +254 733 777 582
- Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
The Kenya School of Flying stands as a leading institution for aviation training in Kenya, offering a comprehensive range of courses to transform aspiring pilots and engineers into skilled professionals. With its KCAA accreditation, modern facilities, and experienced instructors, KSOF providesVarsity provides a structured pathway to aviation careers, supported by accessible training bases across Kenya. Whether you’re seeking a pilot license, an engineering diploma, or an introductory aviation experience, KSOF equips students with the knowledge and skills to soar in the aviation industry.
READ MORE: KCAA-Approved Aviation Schools in Kenya 2025
