Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Airwing
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Airwing, established in 1990, operates under a dual mandate, first as an aircraft operator in support of conservation and as an aircraft maintenance facility seamlessly integrating wildlife conservation and civil aviation standards. For over 30 years, it has evolved from subcontracting arrangements to becoming an Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) and as a general aviation Operator), a clear demonstration of aviation safety and standards.
The flight operation license validates Airwing’s capability in diverse aviation activities supporting wildlife management, as it places emphasis on professionalism and adherence to regulations. Beyond regulatory achievements, the Airwing significantly contributes to conservation, with surveillance covering 350,000 nautical miles per year.
Actively contributing to the Earth Ranger application intended to enhance wildlife conservation by distinguishing various species in national parks, and other wildlife spaces streamlining the process of wildlife census while managing large volumes of data. This entity also conducts security flights, veterinary support, wildlife census, and firefighting, addressing challenges in both wildlife management and aviation operations.
Departments
The Airwing has three departments: Aircraft Maintenance, Flight Operation, and Aviation Administration and Liaison.
Aviation Administration and Liaison
The Aviation Administration and Liaison functions include managing the administrative tasks related to personnel, logistics, passenger facilitation and communication. Additionally, the department is responsible for liaising with external entities and fostering collaboration with conservationists, the aviation industry, and other stakeholders. This proactive engagement contributes to Airwing’s aim of establishing cordial relationships, promoting awareness, and garnering support for wildlife conservation.
Flight Operation
The Flight Operation function is at the core of the Airwing mission, which involves the planning and execution of aerial activities to support wildlife management and protection efforts. Pilots with specialized skills conduct operations such as security and patrol flights, veterinary support services, wildlife tracking, firefighting, search and rescue missions, and transportation of essential supplies. Airwing’s diverse range of aircraft ensures flexibility in responding to the unique demands of conservation activities across Kenya's vast and varied landscapes.
This Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) department is responsible for the upkeep, repair, and service of its aircraft. This is not limited to KWS aircraft but extends to maintaining a total of 46 aircraft for various operators. The AMO has highly qualified aviation engineers and technicians conducts both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance for various aircrafts.
The AMO also has a robust Aviation Technical Record and Maintenance Planning Section for aircraft airworthiness management. For wildlife conservation and management, the AMO as an In-house aircraft maintenance capacity empowers greater control, flexibility, and potentially faster turnaround times, optimizing both safety and operational efficiency.
Mandate
The KWS Airwing unit plays a vital role in wildlife conservation efforts, as it leverages its aerial advantage to monitor vast areas efficiently, detect potential threats and respond swiftly to protect endangered wildlife.
As the sole parastatal licensed for aircraft maintenance for both private and public sectors by Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, the Wilson hangar with four additional hangars is strategically placed, overseeing 46 aircraft for entities such as Kenya Forest Service, LEWA Wildlife Conservancy, Tsavo Trust, Kenya Police, Mara Elephant Project, DSRS logistics, Kenya Power, and more.
Achievements and Milestones
The achievements of KWS Airwing include effective dual mandate integration, evolution to AMO and The Air Service License, substantial contributions to conservation efforts, active community engagement, collaboration within the aviation industry, government operation support, and a commitment to technological advancements for enhanced efficiency.
Airwing CSR Initiative
Airwing’s outreach extends to Corporate Social Responsibility, with pilots engaging with communities around parks to enhance conservation management and awareness and respond to natural disasters and medical emergencies.
The KWS Airwing serves as a unique Educational Centre for aviation engineering students. It offers hands-on learning experience in aviation and aeronautical engineering in a dynamic environment, thereby gaining practical insights into aircraft maintenance, operation, and technology.
