Drone regulations in Kenya have come a long way, but there remains some key hinderances to proper laws and requirements for someone to own and operate an unmanned aircraft in the country. Some of the requirements involves operators obtaining a license which according to latest reports we have from the official country carrier KQ is Ksh 180,000. The airline plans to offer a course to aspiring pilots that will take a period of one month for Ksh 180,000.
The amount is particularly huge considering the economic level of Kenyans and more so people who will be keen to obtain such a license. At the moment, most Kenyans who have sort to have a drone has been for entertainment purposes. This involves videographers capturing live events such as weddings, funerals and so on.
At the same time, Kenya’s official carrier – KQ has had its fair share of misfortunes over a couple of previous years. The Airline has been operating on losses and the Corona virus made things particularly difficult. Countries suspended travel in and out of their territories, making it very difficult for most airlines to stay afloat.
It only makes sense that KQ is now looking to boost its revenue stream through this initiative, it’s currently exploring various ways to increase revenues including offering a month’s course at that amount. The airline through its subsidiary – Fahari, has started offering training for Kenyans interested in operating drones but do not have licenses to do so, which has become a requirement from the latest regulations approved by the Civil Aviation Authority.
According to the technical director Evans Kihara, Kenya Airways will start by offering an introductory price of Ksh. 180,000, and this is excluding the cost of obtaining a class 3 aviation medical exam that costs around Ksh. 10,000.
Before this initiative, passengers have accounted for almost 85 percent of the airline’s revenue with cargo taking around 10 percent of the share. Kihara insists that trainees will have attained 18 years, proficient in English and must have completed an Aviation Class 3 medical exam.
Other players that have been licensed by the KCAA include Adriana and Drone Space. Drones are expected to be utilized in the country in photography, traffic management as well as during mapping exercises.
