The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has announced a leadership transition following the end of the tenure of its Director General, Emile Arao, whose contract expired on April 22, 2026.
In a statement on April 23, 2026, the Authority’s Board of Directors confirmed the conclusion of Emile Arao’s service, noting that his stint had come to a natural end after completing his tenure.
The Board also expressed appreciation for his service and contribution during his time in office.
“The employment contract of the Director General, Emile Arao, came to an 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,” read part of the statement.
To ensure continuity, the Board, in consultation with the Ministry of Road and Transport, appointed Nicholas Bodo as Acting Director General.
KCAA Appoints Nicholas Bodo as Acting Director General
Nicholas Bodo will oversee operations on an interim basis as the Authority begins the process of recruiting a substantive holder for the position.
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The board will conduct the recruitment of a new Director General in line with governance procedures.
Despite the leadership change, the Authority vowed to remain fully operational and committed to its mandate to ensure safe, secure, and efficient civil aviation services. No disruption is expected during the transition period, according to the statement.
“The Authority 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,” read part of the statement.
Bodo is the Director of Air Services in the Ministry of Road and Transport in Kenya.
In 2024, Nicholas Bodo served as the Acting Managing Director at the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).
Emile Arao, Former Kenya Civil Aviation Authority Director General
On his part, Emile Nguza Arao was appointed as the Director General of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority for a period of three years in April 2022.
He took over from Gilbert Kibe, who exited the Authority after serving for two three-year terms.
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Before his appointment, he served as the Executive Director of the East African Community’s Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency.
Emile is a talented and accomplished Aviation professional holding a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aircraft Engineering Technology.
He also holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration in Aviation with a specialization in Aviation Systems Management, both obtained from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the United States of America.
