Kenyan aviation authorities on Monday, February, 16, moved to reassure travellers after a workers’ strike disrupted operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), causing delays and stranding passengers.
The industrial action, which began early Monday, stems from a dispute between the Kenya Aviation Workers Union and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
In a statement issued in Nairobi, the Kenya Airports Authority confirmed that contingency measures had been activated and advised passengers to contact their airlines for updated schedules, reaffirming its commitment to safety and operational continuity at one of Africa’s busiest aviation hubs.
The dispute centres on long-standing worker grievances, notably the failure to conclude a collective bargaining agreement pending since 2015. Union representatives argue that agreements dating back a decade have not been implemented, leaving staff without promised salary adjustments. Although the union served a seven-day strike notice, the aviation regulator sought court intervention in a bid to forestall the industrial action.
Travellers have been urged to arrive early and remain flexible as authorities manage operational challenges.
Kenya Airways, the national carrier, advised passengers to monitor flight status updates through its website, mobile application and official communication platforms, citing air traffic control delays affecting some departures and arrivals.
KCAA Director General Emile Arao said recovery efforts are under way, with passenger backlogs being cleared in a structured and prioritised manner. He expressed confidence that normal schedules would resume as soon as possible, while reiterating that safety remains paramount as stabilisation efforts continue.