The licensing of aviation personnel in Kenya has come to a temporary halt after the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) suspended operations at its Personnel Licensing Department for 30 days, citing an ongoing transition to a digital system.

The Authority said the decision is aimed at modernising its services, with the new platform expected to eliminate duplication, reduce delays and improve the overall experience for applicants.

A computer-based examination system will also be launched, part of an effort to bring more transparency and reliability into the licensing process.

KCAA through its DIrector General Emile Arao acknowledged that the suspension may prove unsettling for pilots, engineers and other professionals who depend on timely certification.

“KCAA is mindful that this temporary suspension may cause concern, and has established a dedicated feedback channel, to be shared early next week for Stakeholders to input their recommendations, past complaints, noted illegalities, irregularities and other concerns. The information can be shared anonymously through the channel. This will play a key role in refining the examination and licensing process,” the Authority said.

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The regulator also underscored its commitment to long-term improvements in aviation training and licensing.

“The Authority remains committed to upholding the highest standards of aviation training and licensing, while ensuring continuity, trust and the sustained growth of a safe, efficient and dynamic aviation sector,” the Authority said.

Industry observers note that this suspension reflects a broader government push towards digitisation across public services, where manual procedures are gradually being replaced by automated systems.

In recent years, complaints about delays and irregularities in aviation licensing have surfaced, prompting calls for reform from within the sector.

For now, the spotlight is on how the transition will be managed over the next month.

Stakeholders are waiting to see whether the changes will not only shorten processing times but also restore confidence in a system that has faced scrutiny in the past.

As the aviation sector adapts, the coming weeks are likely to determine whether Kenya can position itself as a leader in digital aviation governance within the region.