KAA Issues Update on Ongoing Airport Workers’ Strike

On Monday, flight disruptions persisted at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) due to an ongoing strike by air traffic control workers, resulting in delays and cancellations that stranded numerous passengers. The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) reported that the impact of the industrial action on Air Traffic Control (ATC) services continued to affect flight operations at the nation's principal international gateway.

KAA cautioned passengers to anticipate delays and cancellations, urging them to contact their airlines to check flight statuses before traveling.

Kenya Airways (KAY) disclosed that some passengers faced delays exceeding six hours due to the disruption, which generated a substantial flight backlog at JKIA. The airline had to reschedule and cancel some flights to clear the backlog and restore normal operations. KAY's teams were working around the clock to manage the situation and proactively reschedule affected flights.

Jambojet also suffered significant losses, with only two out of its 55 scheduled flights for the day operating by 11:30am. Five of its aircraft remained in line for clearance when the airline issued its update. Jambojet assured that its teams remained fully operational and available to assist passengers during this challenging period.

Various airlines, including international carriers utilizing JKIA, reported delays as the strike disrupted flight schedules. Airlines were working diligently to assist affected passengers, arranging alternative accommodations where necessary. The strike, initiated by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) at approximately 2am on Sunday, had left hundreds of passengers stranded at JKIA and other airports since Sunday.

Some travelers who were supposed to depart through JKIA spent the night at airport terminals awaiting updates from their airlines. Others were transferred to hotels as airlines arranged alternative arrangements, while some passengers opted to cancel their trips.

The strike began at the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Kenya Airports Authority, and Jambojet, with union members protesting for improved welfare, better working conditions, and the implementation of previously agreed employment benefits. KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema stated that union members had ceased their operations at these institutions until their grievances were addressed.

The dispute arose following the collapse of a framework agreement on July 27, after a meeting involving the union, four employers, and the Ministry of Transport failed to resolve outstanding issues.

The Kenya Airports Authority stated that it was collaborating closely with aviation agencies, airlines, and other stakeholders to manage the disruption, minimize its impact on travelers, and facilitate the smooth operation of airport activities. The authority advised passengers to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight status information and to plan their journeys accordingly, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused by the disruption.