KCAA

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) is the state agency responsible for the regulation, oversight, and management of civil aviation in Kenya. Established under the Civil Aviation Act, the KCAA operates under a mandate to ensure operational safety, air navigation efficiency, and the protection of consumer rights within the aviation sector. Its jurisdiction encompasses the entire Kenyan airspace and the regulation of both domestic and international operators serving airports such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The KCAA aligns its directives with the standards set by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and AFCAC (African Civil Aviation Commission).

Official changes from this authority that affect passengers appear in this guide's updates as they are published. Each one is checked against the official document before it goes live.

In Kenya, each airline sets the hand and checked baggage allowance for each fare:

• Price: before paying, check the total price and what the fare includes; Kenya's consumer protection law prohibits misleading information in sales.
• Hand baggage: the permitted size and weight vary by airline; check before you buy.
• Lost baggage: on international flights the Montreal Convention, ratified by Kenya, applies; file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

The transportation of animals is subject to both KCAA regulations and the Kenya Department of Veterinary Services:

• Documentation: Submission of an International Health Certificate and rabies vaccination record (issued at least 30 days in advance) is mandatory.
• Safety: The KCAA requires that animals transported in the hold travel in crates certified by IATA (Live Animals Regulations - LAR).
• Limitations: many airlines restrict the transport of brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, especially in hot seasons.

• Seats: ask for seats together when booking; whether seat selection is charged depends on the airline and the fare.
• Equipment: folding strollers and approved car seats can be checked or taken to the aircraft door, usually free of charge, according to each airline's policy.
• Bassinets: some airlines offer bassinets on advance request, depending on the aircraft.

• Ground Assistance: Airlines and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), under KCAA oversight, must ensure the provision of wheelchairs and boarding/disembarking assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM).
• MEDIF Form: For passengers with complex medical conditions or those requiring onboard oxygen, the Medical Information Form (MEDIF) must be submitted to the airline at least 48 to 72 hours before the flight.
• Priority: Passengers with physical disabilities have legal priority during check-in, security screening, and boarding.

• KCAA Home Page: https://www.kcaa.or.ke/
• KCAA Civil Aviation Regulations (Licensing & Operations): https://www.kcaa.or.ke/legislation-publications/aviation-regulations
• KCAA Consumer Protection Guidelines: https://www.kcaa.or.ke/about-us/consumer-protection
• Kenya Airports Authority (Information on infrastructure and accessibility): https://www.kaa.go.ke/