Taskforce Recommends Restoration of Police Airwing to NPS

The National Taskforce on Improvement of the Terms and Conditions of Service for Members of the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service and National Youth Service has suggested restoring the Police Airwing to the National Police Service (NPS). The taskforce, led by former Chief Justice David Maraga, made the recommendation in its public report released on August 31, 2026.

The taskforce believes the restored Police Airwing (NPSAW) should follow strict Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) standards for aircraft maintenance and airworthiness, including requirements on qualifications, training, and accreditation of professionals. The taskforce urges Parliament to offer the necessary financial support and resources to ensure the NPSAW operates effectively.

They also recommend the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) provide competitive remuneration for professionals working in the NPSAW, ensuring the retention of skilled aviation personnel. Alternatively, the taskforce proposes leasing police aircraft, similar to the arrangement used for police motor vehicles. The Police Airwing was established in 1949 to assist with reconnaissance operations, which the taskforce noted as a crucial aspect of policing.

However, in 2019, the Airwing was transferred to the National Air Support Department (NASD) under a Kenya Defence Forces officer's leadership. This transfer created difficulties for the NPS in accessing and using its aircraft due to the need for authorisation from NASD. The taskforce argues that this arrangement has hindered the police's ability to effectively utilize the Airwing in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.

The taskforce also reviewed the regulatory framework governing the Police Airwing, finding that NASD, which includes Kenya Defence Forces officers, may not be fully regulated by KCAA. While the idea of pooling resources for efficient aircraft utilization is commendable, the taskforce believes the NPS, as an independent security organ with a specific constitutional mandate, cannot effectively utilize the Airwing when its operations are controlled by another agency.