COL (Rtd) Hussein Ahmed Farah, EBS, DCO
COL (Rtd) Hussein Ahmed Farah, EBS, DCO
COL (Rtd) Hussein Ahmed Farah is a retired Kenya Air Force officer and an accomplished businessman with a formidable legacy in both military and civil aviation. At 75 years of age, he continues to shape the industry through his extensive expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Professional Journey
COL. Farah co-founded BlueBird Aviation; he was the Chairman and CEO from 1992 to 2022, The company specializes in passenger air transport, air cargo, and aero medical evacuations. Under his leadership, Bluebird Aviation expanded to operate a fleet of 18 multi-engine aircraft and employs over 100 aviation professionals, meeting and exceeding the strict standards set by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority.
Before his tenure at Bluebird, COL Farah served in various significant roles within the Kenya Air Force, culminating as a Senior Air Staff Officer. His military career included commanding positions such as Commanding Officer of the Flying Wing at Moi Air Base Eastleigh and Officer Commanding the Air Transport Squadron. For a period spanning fifteen (15) years, Col. Farah flew the late head of state president Moi of Kenya and other visiting heads of state.
Education and Training
COL. Farah trained at the Kenya Air Force Flying Training School and advanced his skills at the Central Flying School of the Royal Air Force in the UK. He further enhanced his military education with courses at the Joint School of Photo Interpretation and the Air Command and Staff College in the USA, focusing on advanced leadership and command strategies.
Contributions and Recognitions
Beyond his executive roles, COL Farah has contributed to the aviation community as an Aircraft Instrument Rating Examiner for the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, guiding aspiring pilots and enhancing safety standards in the industry.
His exemplary military service has not gone unrecognized. COL. Farah has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS) and the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCO), alongside several commendations and presidential medals that celebrate his dedication and impact.
Personal Interests
In his personal life, COL Farah values family and health, actively enjoying hiking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. His commitment to life beyond aviation speaks volumes about his well-rounded character and dedication to community and well-being.
Despite his advanced age, Col. Farah continues to conquer the myth about old age by climbing the highest mountains in Africa and treading the most difficult terrains on the continent.
