Kenya Airways, the pride of Africa and the national carrier of Kenya, continues to inspire and connect people, cultures, and markets across the globe. With a legacy built on excellence and a vision to propel Africa’s prosperity, the airline remains committed to delivering superior travel experiences while upholding the highest standards of safety, service, and professionalism.
As aviation continues to evolve, Kenya Airways plays a central role in shaping the future of air transport on the continent. The airline’s operations span across multiple regions, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, linking business hubs and leisure destinations. Through this commitment, Kenya Airways not only strengthens trade and tourism but also fosters unity and cultural exchange.
To maintain and enhance this tradition of excellence, Kenya Airways is seeking dedicated, talented, and passionate pilots to join its world-class team as First Officers. This role is more than just flying aircraft—it is about ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers, embracing teamwork in the cockpit, and representing the spirit of Kenya and Africa in every journey.
This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are committed to professionalism, excellence, and aviation safety, and who seek to contribute to the ongoing success of one of Africa’s most prestigious airlines.
Position: First Officer
Status: Active
Application Period: 92 Days Remaining
Employer: Kenya Airways
Purpose of the Role
The First Officer is a highly integral member of the flight crew, working as the second in command under the authority of the Captain. The role exists to ensure that flight operations are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with both company policies and international aviation regulations.
At Kenya Airways, the First Officer position is not only about flying the aircraft but also about working collaboratively with colleagues, making sound decisions, adapting to dynamic environments, and upholding the airline’s vision of connecting people and markets.
Job Description
As a First Officer at Kenya Airways, you will be expected to perform a wide range of duties that go beyond the technical aspects of flying. The role requires professional dedication, outstanding situational awareness, and the ability to integrate seamlessly into a team-oriented environment.
Core Role Functions
- Second in Command Duties – The First Officer assists the Captain in carrying out all operational functions of the aircraft, ensuring readiness and safety before, during, and after flights.
- Collaborative Operations – The First Officer works hand-in-hand with the Captain and the cabin crew to ensure efficient and effective operations, from pre-flight checks to landing and post-flight duties.
- Safety and Compliance – The role involves strict adherence to aviation safety regulations, airline procedures, and the highest standards of professional conduct.
- Communication and Coordination – Effective communication with air traffic control (ATC), ground staff, and other flight crew is central to the role. This ensures seamless coordination and promotes safety.
- Adaptability – The dynamic nature of aviation requires First Officers to quickly adapt to changing circumstances, such as weather conditions, technical issues, or operational adjustments.
Key Responsibilities
As a First Officer, your responsibilities will span several critical areas:
- Operational Duties
- Serve as the second in command and assist the Captain in all flight-related tasks.
- Participate in pre-flight briefings, ensuring full understanding of the flight plan, weather conditions, and any operational issues.
- Conduct thorough pre-flight and post-flight inspections to ensure aircraft safety.
- Monitor instruments, systems, and controls during flights, ensuring optimal performance and quick response to irregularities.
- Assist in navigation, flight management, and maintaining situational awareness at all times.
- Crew Collaboration
- Maintain clear communication with the Captain, ensuring a unified approach to flight management.
- Support the cabin crew in maintaining passenger safety and comfort, particularly in emergency or irregular situations.
- Provide mentorship and support to trainee pilots or crew where necessary.
- Safety and Compliance
- Adhere to Kenya Airways’ operational standards, policies, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Ensure compliance with all Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) regulations and international aviation laws.
- Monitor and assess operational risks, contributing to proactive safety management.
- Ensure readiness for handling emergencies and abnormal situations with professionalism and calm.
- Communication Duties
- Act as a key liaison with ATC for clearances, instructions, and updates during flights.
- Maintain professional communication with ground staff during boarding, refueling, loading, and other logistical processes.
- Keep passengers informed through updates provided by the Captain when needed.
- Professional Development
- Continuously update knowledge of aviation technology, safety procedures, and global regulations.
- Participate in training sessions, simulator exercises, and continuous professional development programs provided by Kenya Airways.
Required Skills
The First Officer role requires a strong set of professional skills and personal attributes, including:
- Aviation Safety Awareness – Deep understanding of safety procedures, flight operations, and international aviation standards.
- Communication Skills – Clear and effective communication with colleagues, ATC, and ground staff.
- Teamwork – Ability to work collaboratively within a crew, demonstrating respect, discipline, and professionalism.
- Decision-Making – Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in high-pressure situations.
- Adaptability – Flexibility and resilience in a fast-paced and changing environment.
- Situational Awareness – Exceptional awareness of conditions inside and outside the cockpit, ensuring proactive responses.
Qualifications
To be eligible for the First Officer role at Kenya Airways, candidates must meet the following qualifications and requirements:
- Licensing & Certifications
- 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.
- A valid KCAA CPL/ATPL license.
- Valid Instrument Rating and Multi-Engine Rating.
- Valid Class One Medical Certificate.
- Gas Turbine Rating and Performance Rating A.
- KCAA English Proficiency Level 4 or above.
- Citizenship & Education
- Must be a Kenyan citizen.
- High school education with an aggregate grade of C- (minus) and a minimum of C- in Mathematics, English, Physics, or a general sciences subject.
- Physical Requirements
- Minimum height requirement of 160 cm.
Additional Information
Why Join Kenya Airways?
Becoming a First Officer at Kenya Airways is not just a job—it is an opportunity to join a dynamic, forward-looking airline that is recognized globally for its standards of excellence. Here’s what you can expect:
- Prestige and Pride
- Work with one of Africa’s leading airlines and represent Kenya on the global aviation stage.
- Be part of an airline that has consistently earned recognition for service, safety, and operational excellence.
- Career Growth
- Continuous training and development opportunities to advance your career in aviation.
- Access to mentorship and exposure to international aviation best practices.
- Team Culture
- A collaborative, professional, and supportive working environment.
- Colleagues who are dedicated to safety, leadership, and teamwork.
- Competitive Rewards
- A comprehensive salary and benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent.
- Opportunities to travel and experience diverse cultures while fulfilling professional duties.
- Contribution to Africa’s Growth
- By joining Kenya Airways, you will contribute to connecting Africa’s people, markets, and cultures, driving prosperity across the continent.
Conclusion
The First Officer role at Kenya Airways offers a remarkable opportunity to join an airline that is both prestigious and deeply connected to the advancement of Africa’s aviation industry. This position requires more than technical ability—it demands professionalism, teamwork, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to safety.
As a First Officer, you will play a vital role in ensuring the seamless operation of flights, supporting the Captain, and contributing to Kenya Airways’ mission of connecting Africa to the world. This is a role for individuals who not only aspire to advance their aviation careers but also seek to make a meaningful impact on the lives of passengers and the broader aviation community.
If you are ready to embark on this exciting journey with Kenya Airways and meet the outlined qualifications, this is your chance to become
