Kenya Civil Aviation Authority has announced a leadership transition as the Director General, Emile Arao, whose contract comes to an end, marking the completion of his tenure.

In a Press Statement by the Authority on Thursday, April 23, 2026, the Authority confirmed that it remains fully operational and committed to its mandate.

As Director General, Emile Arao, exits the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, the Authority has acknowledged his service and contribution during his time in office

“The employment contract of the Director General, Emile Arao, came to end on the 22nd April 2026, marking the completion of his tenure. The Board acknowledges with appreciation his service and contribution during his time in office,” KCAA stated.

New KCAA Boss

Meanwhile, following the transition, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority has appointed Nicholas Bodo to serve as Acting Director General.

Nicholas Bodo will provide leadership and ensure continuity of operations as the Authority undertakes the process of recruiting a substantive Director General.

“Following this transition, the Board, in consultation with the Parent Ministry, has appointed Nicholas Bodo to serve as Acting Director General. He will provide leadership and ensure continuity of operations as the Authority undertakes the process of recruiting a substantive Director General,” KCAA stated.

According to the Authority, the recruitment process to replace Emile Arao will be conducted through an open, transparent, and competitive framework in line with established governance procedures.

At the same time, the Authority has stated that it remains fully operational and committed to its mandate of ensuring safe, secure, and efficient civil aviation services. Stakeholders are assured of uninterrupted service delivery during this transition period.

Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) is the statutory regulatory body established under the Civil Aviation Act, Cap. 394, mandated to regulate and oversee aviation safety and security; undertake economic regulation of air services and promote the development of civil aviation; provide air navigation services; and conduct training of aviation personnel.

In executing its mandate, KCAA is guided by the provisions of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, applicable ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), the Civil Aviation Act, Cap. 394, and the attendant civil aviation regulations.