πππππππππ πππππππππ πππππππ πππππ ππππππππ ππππ
The Parliamentary Committee on Transport and Infrastructure has begun deliberations on the proposed Civil Aviation Bill, 2024, following a formal presentation by Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ms. Teresia Mbaika.Β
In a meeting chaired by Vice chair of the Departmental Committee on Transport Hon. Didmus Baraza, PS Mbaika informed the Committee that the proposed legislation seeks to modernize Kenyaβs aviation legal framework and align it with international standards while addressing gaps identified in the current Civil Aviation Act, 2013.
The presentation highlighted extensive stakeholder engagement conducted by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), including a key consultative forum held on 3rd October 2024 in Nairobi.Β
The forum brought together government agencies, aviation industry players, and members of the public to review the draft bill and provide input. Stakeholders called for legislative refinements, clearer institutional mandates, and harmonized enforcement mechanisms across aviation bodies.
Among the key concerns raised were the need to clearly define roles between KCAA and the proposed Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID), improvements to the National Civil Aviation Administrative Review Tribunal, and the inclusion of provisions supporting training, research, and innovation in the aviation sector.
The proposed Bill introduces sweeping reforms aimed at strengthening aviation safety and security, enhancing regulatory oversight, and improving institutional governance.Β
It also seeks to align Kenyaβs aviation framework with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and incorporates global best practices, including provisions under the Chicago Convention.
Significant features of the Bill include the establishment of a State Safety Programme, expansion of air navigation services, and legal recognition of AAID as an independent body responsible for accident investigations.Β
The Bill also enhances the powers of KCAA, enabling it to directly collect regulatory fees, oversee unmanned aircraft systems, and enforce compliance more effectively.
Governance reforms outlined in the Bill include changes in the appointment of the KCAA Board Chairperson by the President, introduction of staggered board terms, and strengthened qualifications for the Director-General.Β
Additionally, the proposed legislation recommends stricter penalties for aviation-related offences and improved systems for safety oversight, including mandatory drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive personnel.
Members of the Committee raised critical issues during the session. Hon. Kibet Komingoi questioned the rationale for maintaining KCAA headquarters in Nairobi rather than decentralizing to other regions.
βWhy do we still have the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority headquarters in Nairobi rather than decentralized to other regionsβ, he asked.Β
Meanwhile, Hon. John Kiragu recommended the establishment of an independent National Transport Investigative Authority to handle accident investigations across all transport sectors, instead of maintaining separate investigative departments.
" Instead of having several investigative units or departments in Air, Road, Rail and Water, the Ministry should consider having an independent body that cuts across all transport investigations to investigate all accidents." Hon Kiragu
The proposed Bill also addresses emerging areas such as environmental protection, wildlife hazard management, and regulation of unmanned aircraft systems, positioning Kenya to better respond to future developments in aviation.
In conclusion, the Committee was urged to consider and approve the Bill, with proponents noting that its enactment would enhance Kenyaβs status as a regional aviation hub, strengthen safety and security compliance, and boost investor confidence in the aviation sector.
The Committee is expected to continue reviewing the Bill and incorporate feedback before tabling its final recommendations in the House.
