Kenyan legislation

Civil Aviation (Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems) Regulations, 2017

Edition: 2017-12-22 · In force

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Part I – PRELIMINARY

1. Citation

These Regulations may be cited as the Civil Aviation (Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems) Regulations, 2017.

2. Interpretation

In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires—"accident" means an occurrence associated with the operation of remotely piloted aircraft system which takes place between the time such aircraft is ready to move with the purpose of flight until such time as it comes to rest at the end of the flight and the primary propulsion system is shut down, in which—

(a)a person is fatally or seriously injured as a result of—

(i)being in the aircraft; or

(ii)direct contact with any part of the aircraft, including parts which have become detached from the aircraft;

(b)the aircraft sustains damage or structural failure which—

(i)adversely affects the structural strength, performance or flight characteristics of the aircraft; and

(ii)would normally require major repair or replacement of the affected component, except for engine failure or damage, when the damage is limited to a single engine (including its cowlings or accessories), to propellers, wing tips, antennas, probes, vanes, tires, wheels, fairings, panels, landing gear doors, the aircraft skin (such as small dents or puncture holes), or for minor damages to main rotor blades, tail rotor blades, landing gear, and those resulting from hail or bird strike (including holes in the radome); or

(c)the aircraft is missing or is completely inaccessible;

"aerodrome" means any defined area on land or on water, including any building, installation or equipment therein, used or intended to be used either wholly or in part for the arrival, departure and surface movement of aircraft, and includes any such area as the Cabinet Secretary may by notice in the Gazette declare to be an aerodrome;"Airborne Collision Avoidance System (ACAS)" means an aircraft system based on Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR) transponder signals which operates independently of ground-based equipment to provide advice to the pilot on potential conflicting aircraft that are equipped with SSR transponders;"RPAS category" means classification of RPAS in accordance with specifications in these Regulations;"air traffic" means all aircraft in flight or operating on the maneuvering area of an aerodrome;"Authority" means the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority;"Automatic Dependent Surveillance— Broadcast (ADS-B)" refers to means by which aircraft, aerodrome vehicles and other objects can automatically transmit or receive data such as identification, position and additional data, as appropriate, in a broadcast mode via a data link;"Command and Control (C2) link" means the data link between the remote piloted aircraft and the remote pilot station for the purposes of managing the flight;"continuing airworthiness" means the set of processes by which an aircraft, engine, propeller or part complies with the applicable airworthiness requirements and remains in a condition for safe operation throughout its operating life;"controlled airspace" means an airspace of defined dimensions within which air traffic control service is provided in accordance with the airspace classification;"detect and avoid" means the capability to see, sense or detect conflicting traffic or other hazards and take the appropriate action;"flight plan" means specified information provided to air traffic services units, relative to an intended flight or portion of a flight of an aircraft;"human performance" means human capabilities and limitations which have an impact on the safety and efficiency of aeronautical operations;"incident" means an occurrence, other than an accident, associated with the operation of an aircraft which affects or could affect the safety of operation;"maintenance" means the performance of tasks required to ensure the continuing airworthiness of an aircraft, including any one or combination of overhaul, inspection, replacement, defect rectification and the embodiment of a modification or repair;"operational control" means the exercise of authority over the initiation, continuation, diversion or termination of a flight in the interest of the safety of the aircraft and the regularity and efficiency of the flight;"operations manual" means a manual containing procedures, instructions and guidance for use by operational personnel in the execution of their duties;"remote pilot station" means the component of the remote piloted aircraft system containing the equipment used to pilot the remote piloted aircraft;"Remote Piloted Aircraft (RPA)" means an unmanned aircraft which is piloted from a remote pilot station;"Remote Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS)" means a remote piloted aircraft, its associated remote pilot station(s), the required command and control links and any other components as specified in the type design;"RPA observer" means a trained and competent person designated by the operator who, by visual observation of the remote piloted aircraft, assists the remote pilot in the safe conduct of the flight;"RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC)" means a certificate authorizing an operator to carry out specified RPAS operations;"Safety" means the state in which risks associated with aviation activities, related to, or in direct support of the operation of aircraft, are reduced and controlled to an acceptable level;"Safety Management System (SMS)" means systematic approach to managing safety, including the necessary organizational structures, accountabilities, policies and procedures;"toy" means a remotely piloted aircraft system that is less than 2 kilograms gross weight, not powered by any fuel system, not capable of carrying any payload, not fitted with a camera and is operated at a maximum height of 50 feet above ground level, a maximum lateral distance of 50 metres from the operator and a maximum speed of 10 knots;"type certificate" means document issued by a Contracting State to define the design of an aircraft type and to certify that this design meets the appropriate airworthiness requirements of that State;"unmanned free balloon" means non-power-driven, unmanned, lighter-than-air aircraft in free flight;"Visual Line-of-Sight (VLOS) operation" means an operation in which the remote pilot or RPA observer maintains direct unaided visual contact with the remote piloted aircraft; and"Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC)" means meteorological conditions expressed in terms of visibility, distance from cloud, and ceiling, equal to or better than specified minima.

3. Application

(1)These Regulations shall apply to any person who imports, tests, operates, procures, assembles, manufactures or maintains a remotely piloted aircraft system registered in Kenya wherever they may be and any other such aircraft operating in Kenya.

(2)Notwithstanding paragraph (1) above, these Regulations shall not apply to—

(a)State aircraft;

(b)unmanned free balloons or airships;

(c)operation of toys:

Provided that no toy shall be operated within an aerodrome and not less than 500 metres from the aerodrome boundaries, in or around strategic installations, radar sites, high tension cables and communication masts, prisons, police stations, courts of law and scenes of crime.

Part II – CLASSIFICATION AND REGISTRATION OF REMOTE PILOTED AIRCRAFT (RPAS)

4. Classification of RPAS equipment

Remote piloted aircraft systems shall be classified and categorized by weight and use as set out in the Table below:

	Cat A: Utilized for recreational and sports purposes only	Cat B: Utilized for private activities excluding recreational and sports purposes.	Cat C: Utilized for commercial activities.
Class 1:0 - 5kgs (Including any payload carried by the RPAS)	1A	1B	1C
Class 2:5 - 25kgs (Including any payload carried by the RPAS)	2A	2B	2C
Class 3:25kgs and above (Including any payload carried by the RPAS)	3A	3B	3C

5. Eligibility to ownership of RPAS

(1)A person shall be eligible to own a remote piloted aircraft system if that person is—

(a)a Kenyan citizen or resident in Kenya of minimum age of eighteen years;

(b)a company registered in Kenya; or

(c)the national government or a county government.

(2)Change of ownership of a remote piloted aircraft system shall be notified to the Authority in writing within seven days following such change.

(3)A person shall not own, register or operate remote piloted aircraft system with military specifications.

6. Import and export of RPAS

(1)A person shall not import a remote piloted aircraft system or a component thereof without a permit issued by the Authority.

(2)Before issuing a permit referred to under paragraph (1) above, the Authority shall seek and obtain the necessary security clearance by the relevant security agencies and approval by the Ministry for the time being responsible for matters relating to defence.

(3)A person who intends to export a Kenyan registered remote piloted aircraft system shall notify the Authority in writing and obtain a deregistration certificate.

(4)Any person who contravenes the provisions of this regulation commits an offence and shall be liable, upon conviction, to a fine not exceeding two million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.

(5)Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (4), the Authority may confiscate any imported remote piloted aircraft system or a component thereof belonging to a person who contravenes the provisions of this regulation.

7. Manufacture, assembly and testing

(1)Any person intending to manufacture, assemble or test a remotely piloted aircraft system or a component thereof shall apply for authorization from the Authority subject to necessary security clearance by relevant security agencies.

(2)Any person who contravenes the provisions of paragraph (1) commits an offence and shall be liable, upon conviction to a fine not exceeding two million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.

8. Registration of remote piloted aircraft system

(1)An operator or owner of a remote piloted aircraft system shall register that remote piloted aircraft system with the Authority.

(2)Before registering the remote piloted aircraft system referred to under paragraph (1) above, the Authority shall seek and obtain the necessary security clearance by the relevant security agencies and approval by the Ministry for the time being responsible for matters relating to defence.

(3)The Authority shall establish and implement a system for registration, identification of remote piloted aircraft system in Kenya and the display thereof.

(4)Any modification to the specifications of registered remote piloted aircraft system shall be subject to approval by the Authority.

(5)Any person who contravenes the provisions of paragraphs (1) and (4) above commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding two million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.

9. De-registration of remote piloted aircraft system

(1)The Authority may de-register or cancel the registration of a remote piloted aircraft system—

(a)upon application of the remote piloted aircraft system owner for purposes of registering the remote piloted aircraft system in another State; or

(b)upon destruction of the remote piloted aircraft system or its permanent withdrawal from use; or

(c)in the interest of national security.

10. Airworthiness of remote piloted aircraft system

(1)A remote piloted aircraft system owner or operator shall ensure that all its components are in working order and in accordance with the manufacturers' user manual.

(2)The Authority may require a remote piloted aircraft system of a certain Class and Category with a type certificate to obtain a certificate of airworthiness.

Part III – OPERATION OF REMOTE PILOTED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM

11. General obligation of a remote piloted aircraft system owner or operator

(1)The remote piloted aircraft system owner or operator shall—

(a)be responsible for the safe conduct of its operations;

(b)comply with all requirements established by the Authority regarding its operation;

(c)be responsible for contracted services from providers including communications service providers, as necessary, to carry out its operations;

(d)responsible for operational control of the aircraft; and

(e)ensure that it is registered in accordance with the provisions of these Regulations.

(2)Unless otherwise specified by the Authority the request for authorization for operation of the remote piloted aircraft system shall include the following—

(a)name and contact information of the operator;

(b)remote piloted aircraft system characteristics (type of aircraft, maximum certificated take-off mass, number of engines and wing span);

(c)copy of certificate of registration;

(d)aircraft identification to be used in radiotelephony, if applicable;

(e)copy of the certificate of airworthiness;

(f)copy of the remote piloted aircraft system operator certificate;

(g)copy of the remote pilot(s) licence;

(h)copy of the aircraft radio station licence, if applicable;

(i)description of the intended operation, to include type of operation or purpose), flight rules, visual line-of-sight (V1oS) operation if applicable, date of intended flight(s), point of departure, destination, cruising speed(s), cruising level(s), route to be followed, duration or frequency of flight;

(j)take-off and landing requirements;

(k)remote piloted aircraft system performance characteristics, including—

(i)operating speeds;

(ii)typical and maximum climb rates;

(iii)typical and maximum descent rates;

(iv)typical and maximum turn rates;

(v)other relevant performance data including limitations regarding wind, icing and precipitation; and

(vi)maximum aircraft endurance;

(l)communications, navigation and surveillance capabilities;

(m)aeronautical safety communications frequencies equipment, including—

(i)ATC communications, including any alternate means of communication;

(ii)command and control links (C2) including performance parameters and designated operational coverage area;

(iii)communications between remote pilot and Remote Piloted Aircraft (RPA);

(iv)Remote Piloted Aircraft observer, if applicable;

(v)navigation equipment; and

(vi)surveillance equipment, including SSR transponder and Automatic Dependent Surveillance—Broadcast (ADS-B);

(n)detect and avoid capabilities;

(o)emergency procedures, including—

(i)communications failure with Air Traffic Control (ATC);

(ii)C2 failure;

(iii)remote pilot or remote piloted aircraft observer communications failure, if applicable;

(iv)number and location of remote pilot stations as well as handover procedures between remote pilot stations, if applicable;

(v)document attesting noise certification, if applicable;

(vi)confirmation of compliance with the Civil Aviation (Security) Regulations;

(vii)payload information or description; and

(viii)proof of adequate insurance coverage.

(3)Where documents identified in paragraph (2) above are issued in a language other than English, the remote piloted aircraft system operator shall ensure that an English translation is included.

(4)A remote piloted aircraft system shall meet the performance and equipment carriage requirements for the specific airspace in which the flight is to operate.

(5)Any person who contravenes the provisions of paragraphs (1)(b) or (2) of this regulation commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.

12. Authorization of remote piloted aircraft system operations

(1)A person shall not operate a remote piloted aircraft system in Kenya without authorization from the Authority.

(2)Remote piloted aircraft system operators shall be authorized in accordance with the category of use, for purposes of—

(a)recreation and sports which shall be through registered clubs established in accordance with the provisions of Part IV of these Regulations;

(b)private use with authorization granted to the operator directly by the Authority in accordance with the provisions of Part V of these Regulations;

(c)commercial use where authorization shall be issued in accordance with the provisions of Part VI of these Regulations.

(3)The Authority may grant, upon application, a temporary permit to a person intending to operate a remote piloted aircraft system not registered in Kenya for a period of thirty (30) days renewable once.

(4)An application referred to under paragraph (3) of this regulation shall be submitted to the Authority online and processed within fourteen (14) days upon receipt.

13. Prohibited operation of remote piloted aircraft system

(1)A person shall not operate a remote piloted aircraft system in a negligent or reckless manner.

(2)For the purposes of paragraph (1) above, a person operates a remote piloted aircraft system in a "negligent" or "reckless" manner where that person—

(a)in the cause of operation, endangers other aircraft, persons or property;

(b)operates in or around a prohibited or a restricted area, the particulars of which have been duly published in the Kenya Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP), except in accordance with the conditions of the restrictions or by permission granted by the Authority; or

(c)operates in or around strategic installations, radar sites, high tension cables and communication masts, prisons, police stations, courts of law, scenes of crime, except in accordance with the conditions of the restrictions or by permission granted by the Authority.

(3)Any person who contravenes the provisions of this regulation commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.

14. Carriage of dangerous goods

(1)A person shall not take on board or cause to be taken on board a remote piloted aircraft system or deliver or cause to be delivered for loading thereon any goods which that person knows or has reasonable cause to know to be dangerous goods.

(2)For the purposes of paragraph (1) above, "dangerous goods" includes—

(a)chemical and biological substances;

(b)nuclear material;

(c)explosives;

(d)arms, ammunition and munitions of war;

(e)corrosive substances;

(f)radioactive elements;

(g)volatile liquids;

(h)highly flammable liquids;

(i)aerosol sprays;

(j)any such materials or substances that may from time to time be so classified by the Authority as dangerous goods.

15. Remote piloted aircraft system operating limitations

(1)A person shall not operate a remote piloted aircraft system—

(a)at above 400 feet Above Ground Level (AGL) and within 50 meters of any person, vessel, vehicle or structure which is not under the control of the person in charge of the remote piloted aircraft system;

(b)in conditions other than Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC);

(c)at night, unless specifically cleared by the Authority on a case by case basis;

(d)fitted with cameras or imaging devices at heights or lateral distances where such cameras or imaging devices capture information, pictures or videos extending beyond the prescribed area of approved operation.

(2)Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (1)(b) above, operations for private and commercial categories of remote piloted aircraft system may be conducted at such higher heights and lateral distances as the Authority may approve.

16. Operations in congested areas and crowds

(1)A person shall not operate a remote piloted aircraft system at lateral distance of less than 50 metres from any person, building structure, vehicle, vessel or animal not associated with the operations of remote piloted aircraft system unless authorized by the Authority.

(2)Subject to paragraph (1) above, vertical limits shall be no less above ground level than 100 feet except when prescribed by the Authority.

17. Collision avoidance

(1)All remote piloted aircraft systems in controlled airspace shall operate in accordance with the Civil Aviation (Rules of the Air) Regulations and a remote pilot shall maintain awareness so as to see and avoid other aircraft and vehicles and shall yield the right-of-way to all aircrafts and vehicles.

(2)For the purposes of paragraph (1), "yielding the right-of-way" means that the remote piloted aircraft shall give way to the aircraft or vehicle and may not pass over, under, or ahead of it unless well clear.

(3)No person shall operate a remote piloted aircraft system so close to another aircraft as to create a collision hazard.

18. Certifications of remote piloted aircraft system pilot or instructors

Remote piloted aircraft system pilots or instructors for commercial operations shall be certified by the Authority in accordance with the requirements specified in the First Schedule to these Regulations.

19. Reporting of remote piloted aircraft system incidents and accidents

Remote piloted aircraft system operator shall ensure that all incidents and accidents involving such a system are reported to the Authority in accordance with the provisions of the Civil Aviation (Safety Management) Regulations.

20. International remote piloted aircraft system operations

(1)A person shall not conduct a remote piloted aircraft system flight—

(a)commencing at a place within Kenya and terminating at a place outside without authorization from the State of destination or any other State over whose airspace the remote piloted aircraft system shall fly; or

(b)commencing at a place outside Kenya and terminating at a place within Kenya or over-flying the Kenyan airspace without authorization from the Authority.

21. Cancellation, suspension or variation of authorization

Notwithstanding the provisions of regulation 12, the Authority may, in the interest of safety and national security, cancel, suspend or vary any authorization granted under these Regulations.

22. Filing of flight plans

(1)All Remote piloted aircraft systems flights in controlled airspace shall file flight plans as provided for under the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP).

(2)Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1) above, all remote piloted aircraft systems flights in uncontrolled air space operating below or within 5 kilometres out of launch area shall notify the nearest Air Traffic Control (ATC) and shall comply with any directions or orders issued by ATC.

23. Emergencies and contingency links

All remote piloted aircraft systems operators shall develop and implement emergency and contingency procedures acceptable to the Authority.

24. Command and Control

(1)A remote piloted aircraft system owner or operator shall ensure that he or she has command or control of the remote piloted aircraft system at all times during the flight.

(2)Any remote piloted aircraft system owner or operator who loses command or control of his or her remote piloted aircraft system shall report to the Authority immediately.

25. Air Traffic Control (ATC) communication

(1)A remote piloted aircraft system pilot shall ensure that Air Traffic Control (ATC) is made aware of any operations that shall take place in areas which are likely to affect manned and controlled air traffic.

(2)The Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) shall establish procedures, acceptable to the Authority, for integration of remote piloted aircraft system operation into the airspace to ensure aviation safety and such procedures shall include communication and surveillance detection.

(3)Procedures referred to in paragraph (2) above shall provide for required information to be passed to Air Traffic Control by remote piloted aircraft system pilot before and during remote piloted aircraft system operations.

26. Operation in the vicinity of aerodromes

Except with written permission of the owner or operator of an aerodrome, the appropriate Air Navigation Service Provider and approval from the Authority, a person shall not operate a remote piloted aircraft system -

(a)within ten (10) kilometres of an aerodrome from the aerodrome reference point for code C, D, E and F aerodromes;

(b)within seven (7) kilometres of an aerodrome from the aerodrome reference point for code A and B aerodromes;

(c)on approach and take-off paths;

(d)within the vicinity of navigation aids;

(e)within the aerodrome traffic zone; and

(f)within terminal traffic holding patterns.

27. Operations at an aerodrome

The Authority may upon approval of remote piloted aircraft system operation at an aerodrome—

(a)impose operating restrictions on the approval in the interest of safety;

(b)publish details of the approval in the appropriate element of the Integrated Aeronautical Information Publication (IAIP);

(c)revoke or change the conditions that apply to such approval and publish details of any revocation or change in conditions in the appropriate element of the IAIP.

Part IV – RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS OPERATION OF REMOTE PILOTED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM

28. Recreational and sports operations of RPAS

(1)Remote piloted aircraft system operations for recreation and sports purposes shall be conducted within registered clubs which are approved by the Authority in accordance with the guidelines set out in the Second Schedule of these Regulations and such recognition shall be valid for twelve months.

(2)The Authority shall develop a system for approval of clubs including requirements for composition, documentation and club rules and regulations.

(3)The clubs provided for under paragraph (1) above shall provide the Authority with details of their operation areas and times for approval.

(4)The Authority shall segregate and notify through the applicable element of the Integrated Aeronautical Information Publication (IAIP) of such airspaces designated for use by remote piloted aircraft system operators, including limitations that may apply.

29. Training requirements for recreational and sports operations of RPAS

(1)Clubs referred to in regulation 28 shall prescribe minimum training requirements for remote piloted aircraft system requirements for operation under the club, recreational and sports operations of RPAS.

(2)Training requirements referred to in paragraph (1) above shall be documented and submitted to the Authority for acceptance.

Part V – PRIVATE OPERATION OF REMOTE PILOTED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM

30. Private operations of RPAS

A person shall not operate remote piloted aircraft system for private purposes except with prior authorization issued by the Authority and subject to the conditions contained therein.

31. Training requirements for private operations of RPAS

A remote piloted aircraft system pilot for private operation shall be trained in accordance with training requirements set out in the First Schedule to these Regulations.

Part VI – COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF RPAS

32. Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) compliance

(1)An operator shall not engage in commercial remote piloted aircraft system operations unless that operator holds a valid Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) issued by the Authority.

(2)The Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) referred to in paragraph (1) above shall authorize the operator to conduct remote piloted aircraft system operations in accordance with the conditions and limitations detailed in the operations specifications attached to that certificate.

(3)The issuance of the Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) by the Authority shall be dependent upon the remote piloted aircraft system operator demonstrating an adequate organization, method of control and supervision of flight operations, training programme as well as ground handling and maintenance arrangements consistent with the nature and extent of the operations specified and commensurate with the size, structure and complexity of the organization.

(4)A commercial remote piloted aircraft system operator shall establish and implement a Safety Management System (SMS) in accordance with their operational requirements established under the Act or any other Regulations made thereunder.

33. Application for Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC)

(1)An operator applying to the Authority for a Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) shall submit an application in a form and manner prescribed by the Authority and containing any other information the Authority may require.

(2)An applicant shall make the application for an initial issue or re-issue of an ROC at least sixty days before the date of the intended operation.

34. Issuance of ROC

(1)The Authority may issue a Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) to an applicant if that applicant—

(a)meets the requirements of ownership stipulated under regulation 5;

(b)meets the applicable regulations and standards for the holder of a Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC);

(c)is properly qualified and adequately staffed and equipped to conduct safe operations in commercial operations of the remote piloted aircraft system; and

(d)has an approved aircraft operator security programme in accordance with the Civil Aviation (Security) Regulations, and meets any other requirements as specified by the Authority.

35. Validity and renewal of a Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC)

(1)A Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) issued by the Authority shall be valid for 12 months from the date of issue or renewal unless—

(a)a shorter period is specified by the Authority;

(b)the Authority amends, suspends, revokes or otherwise terminates the certificate;

(c)the holder surrenders it to the Authority; or

(d)the holder notifies the Authority of the suspension of operations.

(2)A Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) which is suspended or revoked shall be returned to the Authority.

(3)An applicant for a Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) which has expired shall make an initial application.

36. Amendments of ROC

(1)The Authority may amend a Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ROC) if—

(a)the Authority determines that the amendment is necessary for the safety of commercial remote piloted aircraft system operations;

(b)the Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate holder applies for an amendment and the authority determines that the amendment is necessary; or

(c)the amendment is in the interest of national security.

(2)The Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator Certificate holder shall operate in accordance with the amendment unless it is subsequently withdrawn.

37. Conducting surveillance, tests and inspections

The Authority shall conduct surveillance, inspections and tests on the Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator Certificate holder to ensure continued eligibility to hold that certificate and associated approvals.

38. Personnel required for RPAS commercial operations

(1)Remote piloted aircraft system operator shall have an accountable manager acceptable to the Authority, with corporate authority for ensuring that all necessary resources are available to support Piloted Aircraft Operator Certificate holder operations.

(2)The accountable manager shall have sufficient qualified and competent personnel for the planned tasks and activities to be performed in accordance with the applicable requirements.

(3)A remote piloted aircraft system operator shall establish initial and recurrent training to ensure continuing competence of its personnel.

39. Operations manual

A remote piloted aircraft system operator shall develop and submit to the Authority for approval an operation manual as set out in the Third Schedule to these Regulations.

40. Authorization for commercial remote piloted aircraft system operations

(1)A Remote Piloted Aircraft Operator Certificate holder shall not undertake commercial operations of remote piloted aircraft system except with authorization issued by the Authority.

(2)Authorization referred to in paragraph (1) above shall be specific to particular operations.

41. Certification of remote piloted aircraft system pilots or instructors

(1)A person shall not operate a remote piloted aircraft system for commercial or private purposes without a valid Remote Piloted Aircraft System pilot certificate issued by the Authority in accordance with these Regulations.

(2)An applicant for Remote Piloted Aircraft System pilots certificate referred in paragraph (1) above shall—

(a)be at least 18 years old;

(b)hold a current Class 2 medical certificate;

(c)demonstrate English proficiency;

(d)hold a radio telephony licence;

(e)have completed a course of training approved by the Authority;

(f)have passed a knowledge and skill test;

(g)have prove of identity; and

(h)have police clearance certificate.

(3)Where applicable, a remote piloted aircraft system pilot or instructor shall hold an appropriate rating for the type of operations they shall perform including—

(a)type rating;

(b)instrument rating;

(c)night rating; and

(d)instructor rating.

42. Eligibility requirements for remote piloted aircraft system pilot

(1)A person shall not act as a remote piloted aircraft system pilot unless that person holds—

(a)a remote pilot certificate;

(b)a rating for the specific remote piloted aircraft system type or is operating under the supervision of a rated remote pilot for the purpose of qualifying for the rating;

(c)the required knowledge for the type of remote piloted aircraft system; and

(d)a current Class 2 medical certificate.

(2)A person undergoing training to qualify for a remote pilot certificate or rating shall not—

(a)act as solo remote pilot of a remote piloted aircraft system—

(i)unless under the supervision of, or with the authority of, an authorized remote piloted aircraft system instructor;or

(ii)on an international remote piloted aircraft flight;

(b)form part of the crew of a commercial remote piloted aircraft system flight.

43. Validity of remote piloted aircraft system pilots certificate

The remote piloted aircraft system pilot certificate shall be valid subject to validity of the holder's medical certificate.

44. Consumption of alcohol and drugs

No remote piloted aircraft system pilot or observer shall—

(a)consume alcohol less than 8 hours prior to reporting for duty;

(b)commence a duty period while the concentration of alcohol in any specimen of blood taken from any part of his or her body is more than 0.04 grams per 100 millilitres;

(c)consume alcohol or any psychoactive substance during the duty period or whilst on standby for duty; or

(d)commence duty period while under the influence of alcohol or any psychoactive substance having a narcotic effect.

45. Training requirements for commercial remote piloted aircraft system operations

A remote piloted aircraft system pilot for commercial operations shall be trained in accordance with training requirements set out in the First Schedule to these Regulations.

46. Instrument and equipment requirements

The Authority shall prescribe instrument requirement for remote piloted aircraft system operators for specific operations depending on—

(a)the Class and Category of the remote piloted aircraft system;

(b)type of operations; or

(c)special authorization sought.

Part VII – SECURITY REQUIREMENTS FOR REMOTE PILOTED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM OPERATIONS

47. Security programme requirements

(1)A person or a club shall not operate a remote piloted aircraft system without operator security procedures developed in accordance with the provisions of the Civil Aviation (Security) Regulations and accepted by the Authority.

(2)A remote piloted aircraft system operator shall—

(a)specify the security measures, procedures and practices to be followed by the operator to protect pilots and facilities from acts of unlawful interference;

(b)carry out and maintain security measures including identification and resolution of suspicious activity that may pose a threat to civil aviation—

(i)at a remote pilot station;

(ii)on a remote piloted aircraft system; and

(iii)any facility under the control of the remote piloted aircraft system operations.

(3)A remote piloted aircraft system shall be subject to security inspection at any time during its operations without prior notification to the operator.

(4)The specific security measures referred to in paragraph (2)(a) shall provide—

(a)that the premises used for preparing, storing, parking including remote piloted aircraft system ground station shall be secured at all times against unauthorized access;

(b)for protection of critical information technology and communication systems used for operations purposes from interference that may jeopardize the security of civil aviation;

(c)for protection of flight documents;

(d)that commercial operators requesting to operate with a camera shall be required to include details of the camera usage in the application for security review and approval;

(e)requirements for checks and searches of specific areas and accessible compartments of the interior and exterior of remote piloted aircraft system; and

(f)that persons engaged in remote piloted aircraft system operations are subject to recurrent background checks and selection procedures and are adequately trained.

48. Security obligations for remote piloted aircraft system operators

An operator of remote piloted aircraft system shall—

(a)be responsible for the security of such system operations including associated facilities, personnel and equipment;

(b)ensure that the Remote Piloted Aircraft (RPA) or any component thereof that is no longer in use is completely disabled or destroyed to prevent unauthorized use; and

(c)comply with any security directives or circulars issued by the Authority.

49. Acts of unlawful interference against civil aviation

An operator or owner of remote piloted aircraft system shall—

(a)have response procedures for operations personnel for threats and incidents involving remote piloted aircraft system operations; and

(b)ensure that reports on acts of unlawful interference are promptly submitted to the Authority in accordance with the Civil Aviation (Security) Regulations.

Part VIII – GENERAL PROVISIONS

50. Record-keeping

(1)A remote piloted aircraft system operator shall establish a system of record-keeping that allows adequate storage and reliable traceability of all activities developed, covering at a minimum—

(a)operator's organization;

(b)safety management systems;

(c)personnel training and competence verification;

(d)documentation of all management system key processes;

(e)maintenance records;

(f)security management records.

(2)Records shall be stored in a manner that ensures protection from damage, alteration and theft.

(3)Records identified in this regulation shall be current and in sufficient detail to determine whether the experience and qualification requirements are met for the purpose of commercial operations.

51. Insurance

(1)A person shall not operate, or cause to be operated or commit any other person to operate remote piloted aircraft system unless there is in force a minimum insurance policy in respect of third party risks.

(2)The minimum sum of insurance in respect of any remote piloted aircraft system insured in accordance with paragraph (1) above shall be notified by the Authority.

(3)An operator of remote piloted aircraft system shall make available third party liability insurance certificate(s), in the authentic form, at the location of the remote piloted aircraft system operator's operational management or other location specified by the Authority.

(4)Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (1) above, the Authority may dispense with requirement depending on the class and category of the Remote Piloted Aircraft.

52. Establishment Multi-Agency Committee

(1)There is established a standing committee to be known as the Remote Piloted Aircraft System Regulations Multi-Agency Committee (hereinafter referred to as the "Committee") appointed by the Cabinet Secretary responsible for matters relating to civil aviation in consultation with the relevant security Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) on remote piloted aircraft systems regulation.

(2)The Committee shall consist of nine members and shall review remote piloted aircraft system policy, regulations and procedures on a regular basis as and when need arises.

(3)There shall be a secretariat established under the Committee which shall be responsible for coordinating the day-to-day administrative requirements for the regulation of remote piloted aircraft system regulations operations with the Authority.

53. Privacy of persons and property

(1)Any person conducting operations using remote piloted aircraft system fitted with cameras shall operate them in a responsible way to respect the privacy of other persons and their property.

(2)Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1) above, no person shall use a remote piloted aircraft system to do any of the following—

(a)conduct surveillance of-

(i)a person without the person's consent;

(ii)private real property without the consent of the owner;

(b)photograph or film an individual, without the individual's consent, for the purpose of publishing or otherwise publicly disseminating the photograph or film:

Provided that this requirement shall not apply to news gathering, or events or places to which the general public is invited.

(3)Infrared or other similar thermal imaging technology equipment fitted on remote piloted aircraft shall only be for the sole purpose of—

(a)scientific investigation;

(b)scientific research;

(c)mapping and evaluating the earth's surface, including terrain and surface water bodies and other features;

(d)investigation or evaluation of crops, livestock, or farming operations;

(e)investigation of forests and forest management; and

(f)other similar investigations of vegetation or wildlife.

54. Discharging or dropping goods

A person shall not cause a thing to be dropped or discharged from a remote piloted aircraft in a way that creates a hazard to another aircraft, a person, or property.

55. Reports of violation

(1)Any person who knows of a violation under these regulations, shall report it to the Authority.

(2)The Authority shall determine the nature and type of any additional investigation or enforcement action that requires to be taken.

Part IX – OFFENCES AND PENALTIES

56. Unlawful interference of Remote Piloted Aircraft System operations

Any person who unlawfully interferes with duly authorized operation of remote piloted aircraft system commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding two million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.[L.N. 289/2017, r. 2.]

57. Non-compliance

(1)Any remote piloted aircraft system operator who contravenes the provisions of these Regulations and whose penalty has not been specified in these Regulations commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction, to a fine not exceeding one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.

(2)Any person who fails to comply with any direction given pursuant to these Regulations by the Authority or by any authorized person under any provision of these Regulations commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction, to a fine not exceeding one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.

(3)Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, the Authority may—

(a)revoke, cancel, and suspend, any license, certificate, approval, authorization and or exemptions issued under these Regulations of any person who contravenes any provisions of these Regulations; or

(b)confiscate any remote piloted aircraft system or a component thereof belonging to a person who contravenes the provisions of these Regulations.

Part X – SAVING AND TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS

58. Saving and transitional provisions

An owner of remote piloted aircraft system already imported into Kenya at commencement of these Regulations shall apply to the Authority for registration within six months upon commencement date of these Regulations.

Source: Kenya Law · Imported 4 October 2026