Protecting Wilson Airport: A Unified Commitment to Kenya’s Aviation Future
United by a shared commitment to Kenya’s aviation future, the Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO) , the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) , and the Kenya…
Kenya Association of Air Operators
The unified voice of Kenya’s aviation industry
Representing, connecting and advancing the interests of Kenya’s aviation industry.
KAAO at a glance
59+
Years of service
Founded 5 May 1967
63
Member organisations
Ordinary, Associate and Honorary
One
Unified industry voice
Commercial, private and recreational operators
National
Industry advocacy
Government, regulators and stakeholders
About KAAO
A registered national umbrella body for Kenya’s aviation industry
KAAO is mandated to promote, foster, enhance and protect the interests of those engaged in the aviation industry and allied businesses in Kenya.
The Association brings together commercial, private and recreational air operators alongside approved training organisations, approved maintenance organisations, hot air balloon operators and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems operators. Associate members include tourism companies, financial institutions, insurance firms, fuel marketers, tax and audit firms, and business associations.
We provide a platform that allows members and industry experts to speak with one voice when engaging government, legislators, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, development partners and other stakeholders on policy issues and development plans geared towards the long-term, sustainable growth of the air transport industry.
What we do
Working for a safe, efficient and sustainable aviation industry
The objectives the Association was established to pursue, and continues to pursue on behalf of its members.
Advocacy & policy
Representing industry interests on policies and regulations, and working to influence policy on behalf of members.
Industry representation
Providing one unified voice for the industry, and collective representation for members whose individual concerns are shared.
Member support
Easy access to professional advice, and self-regulation through a shared code of conduct and ethics.
Industry engagement
Direct access to Government and Government agencies, and liaison with other organisations across the sector.
Knowledge sharing
Events, groups, meetings and forums that let members exchange information and learn from one another.
Industry development
Provision of fora to discuss and shape the industry, supporting a safe, efficient and sustainable aviation sector.
Membership
Be part of Kenya’s aviation voice
Join the Kenya Association of Air Operators and be part of a network driving the growth and sustainability of Kenya’s aviation industry.
Licensed operators
Ordinary
Ordinary Membership is open to holders of KCAA licences and certificates (AOC, AMO, ATO and ROC).
- Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders
- Approved Maintenance Organisations (AMO)
- Approved Training Organisations (ATO)
- Remote Operator Certificate (ROC) holders
Industry partners
Associate
Associate Membership is available to owners, operators, and individuals contributing to civil aviation. Associate Members enrich our community with their varied experiences and insights.
- Tourism associations and companies
- Financial institutions and insurance firms
- Fuel companies and marketers
- Tax, audit, legal and advisory firms
By invitation only
Honorary
Honorary Membership may be granted to individuals or organisations whose contributions transcend traditional boundaries. Honorary Members embody the spirit of excellence and innovation.
- Recognition of outstanding contribution to Kenyan aviation
- Extended by invitation of the Association
Why join KAAO
What membership gives your organisation
Stronger industry voice
Advocate for aviation policies and regulatory changes.
Exclusive networking
Connect with top aviation professionals and businesses.
Expert support
Access legal, financial and operational guidance.
Training & development
Gain skills through specialised workshops.
Government representation
Your concerns are heard at policymaking levels.
Cost-effective services
Enjoy exclusive benefits and business opportunities.
Our members
The organisations that make up KAAO
63 organisations across commercial, private and recreational aviation and the businesses that support them.
Advocacy
Advocacy & industry impact
What KAAO is doing for the industry — the policy and regulatory matters the Association is engaged on, and where they stand.
Aviation Stakeholders Unite to Tackle Key Challenges
On Wednesday, 19th June, the Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO) joined key stakeholders for a high-level Industry Affairs Meeting, convened with the Kenya Civil Aviation…
KAAO Advocates for Aviation Industry Amidst Finance Bill 2025 Deliberations
The Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO) took a significant step in championing the interests of the nation’s aviation sector by appearing before the National Assembly…
- Stakeholders
- Kenya Airports Authority (KAA)
Events
Events & industry engagements
Board meetings, industry affairs meetings, stakeholder forums and the sector events KAAO takes part in.
Latest engagements
Board Meeting
Recap from our KAAO Board of Directors meeting held last week, where the Board convened for a critical…
News & insights
Latest from KAAO
Press releases, advocacy updates, regulatory news and industry commentary.
Taming the Skies: Managing Wildlife Hazards for Safer Aviation
When it comes to aviation safety, most think of technology, training, or air traffic control. Yet, a quieter—but equally serious—threat lurks on…
Beyond the Horizon: The Future of Kenyan Aviation
Kenya’s aviation sector is more than a means of transportation—it’s a critical lifeline that connects people, empowers industries, and drives national development.…
How to join KAAO and the value of membership
Your Journey with KAAO Starts Here At the Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO), we proudly serve as your trusted partner in…
Frequently asked
Questions about joining KAAO
The questions we are asked most often about eligibility, membership categories and what the Association does for its members.
Can I join KAAO if I am not a holder of a licence or a certificate (AOC, AMO, ATO and ROC)?
Yes. While KAAO primarily represents licensed aviation operators, we also welcome companies and professional firms that contribute to the broader aviation ecosystem. Membership is not limited to holders of licences such as the Air Operator Certificate (AOC), Approved Training Organization (ATO), Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO), or Remote Operator Certificate (ROC). It also includes service providers, suppliers, and other stakeholders who play a vital role in supporting and advancing the aviation industry.
Can individuals join KAAO, or is membership only for companies?
KAAO membership is exclusively for corporate entities, professional firms, and industry bodies. We do not offer individual memberships. However, professionals can participate in KAAO’s initiatives through their organizations or industry affiliations.
What are the benefits of joining KAAO?
KAAO provides a platform for its members to collectively engage with government bodies, regulators, financial institutions, and other stakeholders. This collaboration focuses on advocating for policy matters and development plans that support the sustainable growth of the air transport industry in Kenya. Through this unified voice, members can effectively influence long-term industry advancements.
Does my company need to be an airline, aviation training school, or directly involved with aviation?
No. Our Associate Membership category is open to a wide range of organizations that support and contribute to the aviation industry. This includes companies in tourism, financial institutions, insurance firms, fuel companies and marketers, tax and audit firms, as well as local and foreign business associations.
Can an insurance company, law firm, professional firms, or financial institution join KAAO?
Absolutely. Companies offering insurance, legal, financial, and risk management services play a crucial role in aviation. KAAO values the insights and expertise these firms bring, ensuring well-rounded representation and advocacy for policies that benefit all aviation stakeholders.
Join the association
A stronger digital KAAO for a stronger aviation industry
Join the Association and reap the benefits of being part of an aviation community that gets your concerns addressed.