The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has announced changes to the expiry dates and licensing cycle of Aircraft Radio Licenses, in a move aimed at strengthening safety compliance within the aviation sector.
The Authority, which regulates Kenya’s ICT sector including telecommunications, e-commerce, cybersecurity and broadcasting also manages numbering and frequency spectrum resources, administers the Universal Service Fund, and safeguards consumer interests.
As part of its mandate, the CA oversees aviation radiofrequency spectrum through planning, allocation, assignment, and licensing of aircraft radio systems.
Transition to COA-Based Licensing
In collaboration with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), the CA will implement a new licensing framework effective July 1, 2026. Under the new system, Aircraft Radio License validity will be synchronized with the Certificate of Airworthiness (COA) issued by KCAA.
This marks a shift from the current fixed annual expiry date of June 30. The updated strategy balances regulatory timescales between the two agencies, ensuring that aircraft operators maintain valid paperwork simultaneously.
Transitional Measures Introduced
To facilitate a smooth transition, the Authority has outlined a phased approach.
Following the expiry of current licenses on June 30, 2026, and upon payment of the required annual fees, operators will receive an initial license. This license will remain valid until 30 days after the expiry of the existing COA.
The one-time 30-day grace period is intended to provide sufficient time for operators to renew their COA with KCAA before applying for a fully aligned Aircraft Radio License.
Issuance of Aligned Licenses
Once operators submit a renewed COA, the Authority will issue a new Aircraft Radio License valid for 12 months. This license will be aligned directly with the COA validity period.
As this adjustment will occur within the same financial year, no additional frequency fees will be charged for the second issuance during the transition phase.
After the initial alignment, all Aircraft Radio Licenses will operate under a standardized 12-month renewal cycle. Each license will remain tied to the validity of the corresponding COA.
A built-in 30-day buffer will be included to support timely renewals and avoid compliance gaps. This additional period allows operators to complete COA renewals without risking lapses in regulatory requirements.
The Authority has reiterated the documentation required for license renewal. Applications must include:
A valid Certificate of Airworthiness issued by KCAA
A valid Radio Survey Report issued by KCAA
Proof of payment of the prescribed annual license fees
Strengthening Regulatory Compliance
The initiative is designed to ensure aircraft operators maintain valid and synchronized documentation across both regulatory bodies. By aligning licensing cycles, the CA and KCAA aim to improve oversight, enhance operational compliance, and support aviation safety standards.
The move reflects ongoing coordination between the two agencies in managing aviation-related communication systems and regulatory processes.
