Frequently Asked Questions
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Licensing – Pilots & Personnel
To obtain a CPL you must: be at least 18 years of age; hold a valid PPL; meet Class 1 Medical requirements; accumulate at least 200 hours of flight time; pass regulatory required theoretical examinations and pass a practical flight test.
Pilot licenses require periodic renewal. CPL and ATPL are renewed annually for license holders under 40 years of age or every six months for pilots over 40 years of age. Instrument Ratings require renewals after every 12 months. Full details on renewal schedules are provided in TCAA regulations and on the official website
To convert a foreign pilot license to a Tanzanian license you must submit your original license, government identification, medical certificate, personal flying logbook, a contract of employment from a local operator, and other required documents. TCAA will carry out an assessment and may require additional testing depending on the license type and the country of issue. Contact TCAA directly for the most current requirements. When all documents are verified, an applicant will be required to apply online for the conversion of the license.
To become an Air Traffic Controller (ATC) you must: complete specialized training at a TCAA-approved training organization, meet Class 3 Medical requirements, complete on-the-job training at an ATC facility and pass theoretical and practical examinations.
To become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME), you must complete technical training at an a TCAA approved training organization, typically a two-to-three-year course. You then need to pass TCAA examinations, accumulate practical experience, and obtain an AME license from TCAA. There are various categories depending on the type of work performed (airframe, engines, avionics, etc.).
Cabin crew must complete TCAA-approved training organization, including emergency procedures, first aid, and passenger management. After training they receive a Cabin Crew Certificate. This training must be renewed periodically, and airlines are responsible for ensuring all their cabin crew hold valid certificates at all times.
ICAO mandates a minimum Level 4 English language proficiency for all pilots operating on international routes and for air traffic controllers. This level is assessed across listening, speaking, structure, vocabulary, comprehension, and interaction. TCAA ensures that all pilots communicating on radio frequencies meet this standard.
Examinations depend on the license being sought. They generally include theoretical papers in: Air Law, Navigation, Meteorology, Aircraft General Knowledge, Flight Performance and Planning, Human Performance, and Communications. There is also a practical skill test (flight test) conducted by a TCAA-approved examiner.
TCAA charges various fees for licenses and its services, including examination fees, application processing fees, license issuance fees, and renewal fees. The current fee schedule is available on the TCAA website or by contacting TCAA offices directly. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm the latest figures.
TCAA issues several types of pilot licenses: Student Pilot License (SPL) for student pilots; Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL); Remote Pilot License (RPL) for RPAS pilots and specialized licenses for aircraft types such as helicopters and gliders.
To become a licensed pilot in Tanzania, you must complete training at a TCAA-approved training Organisation, meet minimum age and medical requirements, accumulate the required flight hours, pass TCAA-set theoretical and practical examinations, and demonstrate English language proficiency to the required level. You then apply for the formal license through TCAA.
To obtain a PPL you must: be at least 17 years of age; meet the Class 2 Medical Certificate; accumulate at least 45 hours of flight time including 10 hours of solo flight; pass regulatory required theoretical examinations and pass a practical skill test administered by a TCAA-approved examiner.
Pilots are required to hold a medical certificate issued by a TCAA-approved Authorized Medical Examiner (AME).
There are three classes:
Class 1 for commercial pilots,
Class 2 for PPL and and
Class 3 for and Remote Pilots.
Drones
Yes. All drone operations in Tanzania require approval and permit from Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority, regardless of whether the drone is used for commercial, research, government, or recreational purposes.
TCAA regulates all categories of drones based on weight, purpose of operation, and area of flight. Categories include Open (Low risk) that its operations are conducted within defined limitations, Specific (medium risk/regulated lower risk) and Certified (certified airworthiness approach) which shall be treated as manned aircraft.
Yes. Drones are not allowed to be operate nearby: Military installations State House Prison Areas Airports and airfields (without special permission) Government facilities and offices (without special permission) National parks (without special permission) Crowded public areas (without special permission) Prison Areas
All applications for drone permit are done through TCAA online system and to get access an applicant will send enquiry to our email (drones@tcaa.go.tz). Applications shall be requested at least 3 or 4 weeks before coming to Tanzania for Non-residents applicants and 2 weeks for resident applicants
Drone permit process takes 3 to 4 weeks for non-residents and less than that for residents.
Recreational drones are permitted in Tanzania, but must comply with TCAA regulations. This includes:
Obtain operations permit from TCAA;
Fying away from airports and sensitive areas;
Respecting altitude limits;
Not flying at night without a special permit; and
Ensuring the safety of people and property.
Yes. Foreign individuals or companies wishing to operate drones in Tanzania must obtain TCAA permits before arriving in the country. It is important to plan ahead and contact TCAA or the Tanzanian embassy in their home country for accurate and current requirements.
Drones are permitted to fly up to 120 metres (400 feet) above ground level. Exceeding these limits requires specific TCAA authorization and in most cases additional safety measures. Areas near airports have lower altitude restrictions
Operating a drone unlawfully in Tanzania may result in: substantial financial fines; confiscation of the drone; criminal prosecution; and in serious cases, imprisonment. TCAA and security authorities have the power to seize drones operating without permits or in prohibited areas. Penalties may be more severe where safety was endangered
Yes, Tanzania requires drones to be registered with TCAA and all applications for drone registration are done through TCAA online system.
Yes, on registering the drone insurance is mandatory in respect to third party risks TCAA requires drone operators, to hold third-party liability insurance covering damage that may be caused by the drone to persons or property.
Yes, drones may be flown in the National Parks but will require additional permits such as National Park Authorities permit. It is advised for applicants who want to fly their drones inside National Parks to contact Park Authorities in advance for more clarification and guidance.
Yes, drones are not permitted to fly at night without a special permit from TCAA. Such a permit requires the drone to be equipped with adequate lighting and the operator to follow specific safety procedures. Even with a permit, a higher standard of caution is required.
Usually, permits are location-specific. Operating in new areas requires additional approval or permit amendment.
To renew a drone permit, submit a renewal application to TCAA before the current permit expires. You must confirm that your details and drone have not changed (or provide details of any changes), pay the renewal fee, and meet all current TCAA requirements. It is advisable to begin the renewal process early to avoid any lapse in authorization.
Yes. Applications may be rejected due to:
Incomplete documentation
Security concerns
Unsafe operational plans
Restricted airspace conflicts
The validity of the drone permit will depend on the request from the applicant, there is per day, per month and per year options.
For any assistance you can send an enquiry via TCAA email: drones@tcaa.go.tz or by calling directly to 0800110193
Yes, but with special authorization. Any drone operations that will be inside 10KM radius from the center of aerodrome must not be operated unless the person has clearance from Air Traffic Control
Flight Operations & Permits
Yes, foreign aircraft conducting commercial operations in Tanzania generally require landing permits from TCAA and clearance from the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA). These permits must be applied for in advance, typically a few days before the flight. Scheduled services operated under approved bilateral air service agreements may follow a different procedure.
To apply for overflight permission for Tanzania, the operator or their representative (usually a handling agent) must submit a request to TCAA or the Air Navigation Services authority, providing details of the aircraft, route, timing, and number of passengers and crew. This request is typically submitted at least 24 hours before the flight.
Documents typically required include: a General Declaration (GenDec); Passenger Manifest; Cargo Manifest; Certificate of Airworthiness; crew licenses; insurance certificates; and for some flights, dangerous goods declarations. Requirements may vary depending on the type of flight and the country of registration of the aircraft.
Landing and overflight permits are generally processed within 24–48 hours for complete, well-prepared applications. However, it is advisable to apply further in advance, particularly for peak-season flights or those involving sensitive areas. Emergency permits may be processed more quickly but cannot be guaranteed.
Cabotage is the right of a foreign airline to carry passengers or cargo between two points within another country. For example, a Kenyan airline carrying passengers from Dar es Salaam to Kilimanjaro would constitute cabotage. This right is generally not granted to foreign operators without special agreements, and Tanzania enforces this restriction.
Yes, like most countries Tanzania protects its domestic market for its national carriers. Foreign airlines are generally not permitted to carry passengers on domestic Tanzanian routes without a specific agreement or special authorisation. This is consistent with international aviation conventions and bilateral agreements.
Slot allocations are the system of assigning specific time windows to each aircraft at congested airports. This helps manage air traffic and ensures the smooth operation of the airport. Slots are allocated according to international guidelines (IATA Worldwide Airport Slot Guidelines) and are managed by TCAA and TAA.
Emergency landings are managed by Tanzania's ATC system and airports, which are trained to handle emergency situations. A pilot requiring an emergency landing will communicate with ATC via radio using the appropriate emergency signals (Mayday, Pan-Pan). Airports have Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) teams on standby. TCAA will subsequently conduct an investigation of the incident.
NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) are official notices issued to pilots and aircraft operators about any significant changes in the air navigation system, including route changes, temporary restrictions, airport construction works, or other hazards. They are published through the international NOTAM system and are available via aviation websites and specialist systems.
Standard flight operation rules in Tanzania include: following Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) or Visual Flight Rules (VFR) as appropriate; mandatory communication with ATC; complying with assigned routes and altitudes; use of aircraft transponders; and adhering to the rules set out in the relevant ICAO Annexes. These rules exist to protect the safety of all users of Tanzanian airspace.
Safety, Security & Compliance
An aviation accident investigation is a formal process to determine the cause of an aviation accident or serious incident. Tanzania has a dedicated Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) that operates independently of TCAA. The objective of an investigation is not to apportion blame but to prevent future occurrences by identifying and addressing systemic weaknesses.
Dangerous goods carried on aircraft are regulated by the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), which Tanzania complies. These specify which hazardous materials may be carried by air, how they must be packaged, labelled, and declared. Companies handling dangerous goods must be registered and must train their staff appropriately. Strict penalties apply for violations.
Penalties for breaching aviation safety regulations may include: formal warnings; financial fines; temporary suspension of a license or certificate; permanent revocation of a license or certificate; or criminal prosecution for serious violations. TCAA has the authority to take immediate action where there is an immediate threat to safety.
Tanzanian airports have security measures aligned with Aviation (Security) Regulation 2018, as amended, and the National Civil Aviation Security Programme. These include: screening of passengers and their baggage using X-ray equipment and metal detectors; physical checks by security personnel; screening of aviation staff; pre-departure aircraft security checks; and control of access to airside areas. Security is overseen by TCAA and the National Aviation Security Committee.
A Safety Management System (SMS) is an internationally recognized framework for managing safety in the aviation sector. It encompasses the policies, procedures, and institutional processes for identifying hazards, assessing risks, and controlling those risks before they result in accidents. All airlines, airports, and other aviation stakeholders in Tanzania are required to operate an SMS approved by TCAA.
TCAA monitors airline safety through: regular line operations safety audits; review of incident reports; maintenance records inspections; assessment of training programmes; and overall performance monitoring. TCAA also participates in the ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP), which audits Tanzania's entire aviation safety oversight system.
Tanzania implements international ICAO standards by incorporating them into national aviation regulations, providing TCAA staff training aligned with these standards, and participating in international audit programmes such as ICAO USOAP. TCAA also cooperates with neighbouring and international aviation authorities through cooperation agreements.
TCAA enforces safety standards through: regular and unannounced inspections of airlines, airports, and other stakeholders; license and certificate management; document audits; assessment of Safety Management Systems (SMS); and legal action against those who breach regulations. TCAA has the power to suspend or revoke licenses when safety is at risk.
Aviation incidents must be reported to TCAA as promptly as possible after the event. Pilots, crew members, and other aviation personnel have a legal obligation to report certain types of incidents. Reports can be submitted to TCAA using the official forms available on their website or by direct communication. Early reporting assists the investigation and helps prevent future occurrences.
TCAA Aviation Safety and Security Inspectors (ASIs) play a critical role in ensuring aviation safety. They conduct oversight activities to includes Audits, inspections of airlines, airports, and personnel; verify regulatory compliance; provide guidance and training; investigate incidents and accidents; and report their findings to TCAA management. Inspectors have specialist training and are recognized under Tanzanian aviation law.
General & Institutional
The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) is responsible for regulating and overseeing all civil aviation activities in Tanzania. This includes licensing of aviation personnel, airports, aviation training organizations and air services; safety and security inspections; provision of air navigation services; and ensuring Tanzania complies with international ICAO standards.
Civil aviation in Tanzania is primarily governed by the Civil Aviation Act (Cap. 80), which establishes TCAA and sets the legal framework. There are also various subsidiary Regulations issued under this Act, as well as international treaties to which Tanzania is a signatory, including the Convention on International Civil Aviation (the 1944 Chicago Convention).
TCAA regulates both. It oversees airports with regard to safety and operational standards, although day-to-day management of most airports is handled by the airport operators.
The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) was established in 2003 under the Civil Aviation Act. It was created to take over the aviation regulatory functions previously performed by a government department, in order to ensure a more independent and effective regulatory oversight.
TCAA ensures safety through several mechanisms: regular and ad-hoc inspections of regulated services; licensing and certificate management; implementation of State Safety Program(SSP); accident and incident follow-up; inspector training; and compliance with ICAO standards. TCAA also cooperates with other aviation agencies to exchange safety information.
Tanzania is a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and implements its Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) as contained in the Annexes to the Chicago Convention. Tanzania also a member of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and cooperates with other aviation international bodies to ensure compliance with global standards.
TCAA's headquarters are located in Dar es Salaam at Aviation House - Aviation House, Nyerere/ Kitunda Road Junction. The Authority also has 15 regional offices at major airports across Tanzania, including Julius Nyerere International Airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Zanzibar Airport but also Arusha, Bukoba, Dodoma, Iringa, Kigoma, Mtwara, Mwanza, Pemba, Songea, Songwe, Tabora and Tanga to closely monitor aviation operations.
The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority operates several communication channels to facilitate contact with the public. The official website is https://www.tcaa.go.tz/, where information regarding services and regulatory matters can be accessed.
Correspondence may be sent to the Authority's postal address at P.O. Box 2819, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Telephone inquiries can be made to (+255) 22 219 8100, communication via email is available through barua@tcaa.go.tz.
The Authority maintains social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn under the handle @officialtcaa, where information and updates regarding aviation regulations and services are posted.
TCAA provides many services to the public, including: aviation personnel licensing; aircraft registration; consumer complaint handling; drone permit issuance; air and ground handling service licensing; safety information and public education; and NOTAMs and meteorological information to airspace users.
Air Service Licensing & Business
An Air Service License (ASL) is a legal license issued by TCAA permitting a company or individual to provide air transport services in Tanzania. The ASL confirms that the applicant has met the legal, financial, and safety requirements to conduct an aviation business. Without a valid ASL, no person is permitted to provide commercial air transport services in Tanzania.
To apply for an ASL, the applicant must: submit the official TCAA application forms; demonstrate Tanzanian ownership or majority local shareholding; show adequate financial capacity; provide a business plan; and confirm ownership of or intention to obtain an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). TCAA will conduct a thorough assessment before granting an ASL.
Starting an airline in Tanzania requires: being a company incorporated in Tanzania; obtaining an ASL and AOC from TCAA; demonstrating sufficient financial capacity; having aircraft with valid documentation; employing suitably qualified and licensed personnel; and complying with all TCAA safety regulations. This is a demanding process that requires both legal and technical expertise.
Obtaining an ASL and AOC may take between six months and a year or longer, depending on the completeness of the application and the extent to which the applicant meets all requirements. The process involves document review, physical inspections, and operational assessment. TCAA will provide detailed guidance throughout.
Fees include the ASL application fee, the AOC assessment fee, inspection and oversight fees, and annual license fees. Since these fees are substantial and subject to change, it is important to contact TCAA directly to obtain the current fee schedule and to understand all financial obligations involved.
Tanzania permits foreign participation in the aviation sector, but with certain restrictions. By law, Tanzanian airlines are required to have majority Tanzanian ownership. Foreign companies may partner with Tanzanian counterparts or invest through structures permitted under Tanzanian law. TCAA and other authorities oversee compliance with these ownership requirements.
Ground handling licensing covers companies providing aircraft support services at airports, such as assisting with loading and unloading of baggage and cargo, passenger handling, aircraft marshalling, and short-term maintenance services. These companies must obtain TCAA approval and comply with safety standards.
To start any business in the aviation sector in Tanzania, first determine the specific type of business (airline, pilot training school, aircraft maintenance, etc.) then apply for the relevant licenses and permits from TCAA. You will also need to register your company legally, meet applicable premises requirements, and comply with all relevant safety regulations.
Charter services (aircraft hire) require: an AOC that authorises charter operations; a valid ASL; and for international charters, bilateral agreements with the destination country or special permits. Each international charter flight may require a specific permit from the destination country. TCAA oversees compliance with all charter service requirements.
An Air Operator Certificate (AOC) is an official document issued by TCAA certifying that an air operator has the technical, safety, and operational capacity to provide air transport services safely. The AOC specifies the types of aircraft, routes, and operations authorised. It must be renewed and audited regularly.
Obtaining an AOC requires: submitting a comprehensive application to TCAA including an Operations Manual, Maintenance Programme, and other documentation; passing an initial assessment; successfully completing a formal TCAA inspection; and conducting demonstration flights. The process is rigorous and requires close cooperation with TCAA throughout.
Economic regulation in aviation covers matters such as: ticket pricing and competition conditions; route operation permits; bilateral air service agreements; traffic capacity; and consumer protection. TCAA oversees some of these areas to ensure fair competition and to protect air passengers.
Aviation tariffs in Tanzania are influenced by factors such as operating costs, fuel prices, competition, and the provisions of bilateral air service agreements. TCAA has a role in monitoring and ensuring that tariffs comply with applicable law. However, market forces also play a significant role in setting prices, particularly on international routes.
