Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering Airframes & Engines
Learn to build, inspect and maintain the structures, engines and systems that keep aircraft flying. This KNEC-examined diploma gives you the mechanical foundation of aircraft maintenance — from airframe structures and landing gear to piston and gas-turbine engines — and is the first step toward a Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) Aircraft Maintenance Engineer's Licence in the Airframes & Engines (B1) category.
Where this diploma takes you
Aircraft mechanical engineers are in constant demand at airlines, maintenance organisations and operators worldwide. This diploma opens the door — and sets you on the licensing path to certify aircraft yourself.
Airframe & Engine Technician
Maintain fuselage, flight controls, landing gear, and piston & turbine engines in an approved maintenance environment.
Pathway to AMEL (B1)
Progress toward the KCAA Aircraft Maintenance Engineer's Licence in Airframes & Engines.
Airlines & AMOs
Work with carriers, MRO/AMO facilities and operators across Kenya, Africa and the Gulf.
Curriculum & core units
Year 1 is a shared engineering foundation; Years 2–3 specialise in airframes and engines. Core units include:
- Engineering Mathematics & Mechanical Science
- Aircraft Electrical Installation & Electrical Science
- Engineering Drawing & Workshop Technology
- Aircraft Piston & Gas-Turbine Engines
- Airframes I–III & Aircraft Structures
- Aerodynamics, Theory of Flight & Flight Mechanics
- Strength of Materials, Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics
- Airfield & Safety Procedures · Entrepreneurship · Research Methods
Assessment is 30% continuous coursework and 70% examination; final units are examined by KNEC. Full unit list available from the department.
Who can apply draft — confirm cut-offs
- KCSE certificate with passes in Mathematics, Physics and English
- A genuine interest in engineering and aircraft systems
- Good command of English (medium of instruction)
- International applicants welcome
Not yet qualified? KAC's bridging programme in Mathematics, Physics and English helps applicants meet entry requirements. Exact KCSE grade cut-offs to be confirmed by admissions.
A recognised, licensable qualification
Examined by KNEC, aligned to KCAA licensing
The diploma is examined by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC, code 2506) and delivered under TVETA. It builds the knowledge and practical experience that lead toward the KCAA Aircraft Maintenance Engineer's Licence (AMEL) in the Airframes & Engines category — with real maintenance exposure through KAC Aviation Engineering Ltd, a KCAA-approved Aircraft Maintenance Organisation.
Start your application
How long is the diploma?
Can I become a licensed engineer after this?
Do I need Physics and Maths?
Can I study in the evening or online?
Build a career in aircraft engineering
Applications for the September 2026 intake are open at Kenya Aeronautical College, Wilson Airport, Nairobi.