For nearly 40 years, Airwing has been a dedicated force in wildlife conservation in Kenya. Established in 1990, its mission is to protect the nation’s natural heritage by providing critical air support across vast and usually remote terrain.
Conservation aviation requires a specialized aviation unit, and our Airwing supports wildlife protection through a unique dual role, i.e. conducting vital aerial missions and maintaining its own fleet.
Airwing holds both an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and an Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) license, ensuring operational independence and reliability.
How Airwing Supports Wildlife
From the skies, renowned Kenya’s National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries, the Airwing executes essential tasks for KWS wildlife protection.
- Aerial patrol (Attach picture of husky used in patrols)
- Wildlife census (Attach photograph of census operation)
- Translocations (Photos)
- Veterinary Operations
- Search & Rescue
- Security operation
- Transportation of KWS staff and other conservation stakeholders
- Maintain third part aircraft to a high standard
- Revenue generation
With a skilled team of pilots, engineers, and technicians, the Airwing operates a diverse fleet to meet the challenges in wildlife conservation. Airwing ensures a constant presence in the air, deterring threats and enabling rapid response across the country’s protected areas.
Annual surveillance covers over 350,000 nautical miles.
This approach makes the Airwing an indispensable guardian of Kenya’s wildlife and ecosystems.