Commercial pilots train as private pilots, which allows them to learn the basics of flying before progressing into more complicated planes and situations. Having a Commercial Pilot License (CPL(A) allows flying for a compensation or a hire, so it is the choice, if you wish to pursue flying as a career.

Requirements for Issue of a CPL

An applicant for a Commercial Pilot License shall;

1. Be at least eighteen years of age;
2. Be in possession of a Class 1 Medical Certificate.
3. Hold a Kenyan Private Pilot License or meet the requirements for application for military licenses; or conversion of foreign licenses and
4. Receive a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor who: -
   1. Conducted the required ground training on the required aeronautical knowledge areas, that apply to the aircraft category and class rating sought; and
   2. Certified that the person is prepared for the required knowledge test that applies to the aircraft category and class rating sought.
5. Pass the required knowledge test on the following aeronautical knowledge areas;
6. Meet the required aeronautical experience of the applicable provisions that apply to the aircraft category and class rating sought before applying for the practical test. These required flight hours are well stipulated on the aeronautical experience form
7. Receive the required training and a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor who:
   1. Conducted the training on the areas of operation that apply to the aircraft category and class rating sought; and
   2. Certified that the person is prepared for the required practical test.
8. Pass the required practical test (GFT) on the areas of operation that apply to the aircraft category and class rating sought; M
9. Pass the English Language Proficiency exam and attain either of
   1. Operational Level (Level 4); Valid for 3 years
   2. Extended Level (Level 5); Valid for 6 years
   3. Expert Level (Level 6); Valid for Life

Application Requirements

The applicant should have the following;

1. Fully completed forms as follows;

   1. CPL application Forms to be filled on the initial issue section;

      a. Form M-PEL003-1 for CPL (Aeroplanes)

      b. Form-M-PEL003-2 for CPL (Helicopters)

      c. Form-M-PEL003-3 for CPL (Balloons)

   2. Summary of flying experience form
   3. Application form for English Language Proficiency endorsement
   4. Application form for Flight Radio Telephony Operator’s License
2. A valid Medical Certificate - Class 1
3. Four passport size photographs - full face (2cm by 2.5cm);
4. A photo Identification Card or Passport, or Birth Certificate and a copy of the same
5. Certified copies of the last 2 pages of the personal logbook. These pages show the latest flying experience certified by the pilot’s supervisor, who will certify the relevant logbook entries by endorsing his signature and license number.
6. Payment of the prescribed fees (Kshs. 4500)

Requirements for Renewal of CPL

1. Fully completed forms as follows;

   1. CPL application Forms to be filled on the initial issue section;

      a. Form M-PEL003-1 for CPL (Aeroplanes)

      b. Form-M-PEL003-2 for CPL (Helicopters)

      c. Form-M-PEL003-3 for CPL (Balloons)

   2. Summary of flying experience form
2. Provide a valid Class 1 medical certificate;
3. Complete the prescribed summary of the flying experience form;
4. Logged the required 6 hours for renewal which should have been flown within the last 6 months.
5. Certified copies of the last 2 pages of the personal logbook. These pages show the latest flying experience certified by the pilot’s supervisor, who will certify the relevant logbook entries by endorsing his signature and license number.

Renewal of a Lapsed Commercial Pilot License

Where a license has not been renewed by the date of expiry, the validity of the license standards are lapsed.

To renew a lapsed Commercial Pilot’s license; the license holder shall meet the requirements subject to the lapsed periods as follows:

1. Less than six months and all renewal requirements were met prior to the date of expiry; there are no additional requirements;
2. More than six (6) months but not more than three (3) years:
   1. Pass a written examination in Air Law or Regulations;
   2. Pass a type rating practical check-out on an aircraft type endorsed or on the type rating sought; and
   3. Meet the renewal requirements
3. More than three (3) years but not more than 10 years:
   1. Undertake a refresher course in an ATO in preparation for the practical and knowledge tests which should include ten (10) hours as PIC.
   2. Pass a CPL practical test (GFT) on the aircraft type rating being sought;
   3. Pass a CPL composite knowledge examination;
   4. Meet the renewal requirements;
4. More than ten (10) years, an applicant shall meet all requirements for the of initial issue of a CPL.