Kenya Airways, the national carrier of Kenya, continues to uphold its legacy as one of Africa’s leading airlines. With a strong vision to connect Africa to the world while promoting prosperity across the continent, the airline is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational efficiency.
In pursuit of this mission, Kenya Airways is inviting applications for the position of First Officer. This is an opportunity for ambitious, safety-conscious, and motivated pilots to join a world-class airline that prides itself on professionalism and service excellence. The role provides an opportunity to contribute to the airline’s operational success, while also supporting its mission of connecting people, cultures, and markets across the globe.
This recruitment is designed for individuals who not only possess technical proficiency but also demonstrate teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication. The First Officer role requires commitment to operational safety, adherence to international aviation standards, and the ability to work collaboratively with flight crew and ground operations teams.
Job Title
First Officer
Purpose of the Role
The purpose of this position is to serve as second in command during flights across Kenya Airways’ extensive route network. The First Officer will collaborate with the Captain and other crew members to ensure the safe, efficient, and professional operation of the aircraft. This role emphasizes safety, teamwork, and adherence to both company policies and regulatory requirements.
Job Description
Kenya Airways seeks to recruit First Officers who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to aviation safety, customer service, and operational performance. The ideal candidate will thrive in a team-oriented environment while maintaining a focus on precision and discipline in daily operations.
The First Officer’s responsibilities are extensive and involve supporting the Captain, managing in-flight operations, maintaining compliance with international and local aviation regulations, and ensuring smooth communication across all stakeholders.
This position requires individuals with technical expertise, effective communication skills, and the ability to adapt to fast-changing circumstances in aviation environments.
Key Responsibilities
The First Officer role will involve the following responsibilities:
- Second-in-Command Duties
- Perform the duties of second-in-command on assigned flights.
- Support the Captain in all phases of flight operations, ensuring adherence to operational procedures and safety standards.
- Take over operational responsibilities in case of Captain incapacitation, in line with aviation safety procedures.
- Collaboration with Crew Members
- Work closely with the Captain, cabin crew, and ground staff to promote a seamless and efficient operation.
- Participate in pre-flight briefings and ensure effective coordination with all members of the flight crew.
- Provide input and feedback to the Captain to ensure safe decision-making during all stages of the flight.
- Operational Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all aviation regulations, including Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) requirements and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
- Maintain adherence to Kenya Airways’ company policies, standard operating procedures, and safety protocols.
- Conduct pre-flight and post-flight checks to confirm the aircraft’s operational readiness.
- Communication
- Maintain clear and effective communication with air traffic control, ground staff, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth flight operations.
- Actively contribute to radio communications, relaying critical flight information when required.
- Communicate any operational challenges to the Captain and relevant departments in a timely manner.
- Safety and Risk Management
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to aviation safety at all times.
- Identify potential risks and work with the Captain and crew to mitigate hazards.
- Ensure strict adherence to Kenya Airways’ safety management systems and reporting protocols.
- Adaptability and Decision-Making
- Respond promptly to operational changes, weather conditions, and technical issues.
- Support the Captain in decision-making, offering clear and reasoned input.
- Maintain composure and professionalism under high-pressure or emergency situations.
Required Skills
Applicants must demonstrate the following skills for successful performance in this role:
- A strong understanding of aviation safety standards and regulatory frameworks.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and effectively.
- Ability to work in a collaborative team environment, showing respect for leadership and colleagues.
- Strong adaptability to dynamic and fast-paced operational conditions.
- High level of situational awareness and problem-solving ability during flight operations.
Qualifications
The following qualifications are required for the position of First Officer:
- Valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with Instrument Rating.
- Minimum 200 flight hours (excluding simulator hours) required to qualify for interview.
- Minimum 250 flight hours (excluding simulator hours) required for employment eligibility.
- Kenyan citizenship.
- A valid Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) CPL or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), with:
- Class One Medical Certificate.
- KCAA English Proficiency level 4 or above.
- Valid Instrument Rating.
- Multi-Engine Rating.
- Performance Rating A.
- Gas Turbine Rating.
- Completion of high school education with an aggregate grade of C- (minus). A minimum grade of C- (minus) is also required in Mathematics, English, and either Physics or a general sciences subject.
- Minimum height requirement of 160 cm.
Additional Information
Kenya Airways is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations, and ordinances.
Applicants who may require reasonable accommodation due to disability during the application process are encouraged to contact Kenya Airways for assistance.
The airline values safety, professionalism, diversity, and excellence in service delivery. It offers a supportive and collaborative working environment where employees can contribute to operational success while also pursuing their career development goals.
Conclusion
The role of First Officer at Kenya Airways is designed for professionals who aspire to advance their aviation careers while contributing to the operations of one of Africa’s most respected airlines. It provides an opportunity to be part of a team committed to connecting Africa with the rest of the world through safe, reliable, and efficient air travel.
This position is well-suited to pilots who possess both technical competence and interpersonal skills, and who are prepared to operate within a highly demanding but rewarding environment.
