Kenya airports resume normal operations as 244 flights handled in nine hours

Kenya's airports have returned to normal operations after a full restoration of Air Traffic Control (ATC) services, according to the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA). The announcement was made on September 1, 2026, following disruptions that impacted aviation activities across the country. During a nine-hour period between 3 am and noon, 244 flights were handled at major airports, with Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) seeing the highest number of 55 flights.

The Kenya Airports Authority is collaborating with airlines, cargo operators, and other aviation stakeholders to gradually restore flight schedules and maintain seamless movement of passengers and cargo. The authority assured the traveling public that they could continue to travel with confidence, highlighting that airport teams were fully deployed to ensure safe, secure, and efficient operations.

However, KAA advised passengers who had their travel plans disrupted to stay in touch with their respective airlines for updated flight information. It was also recommended that passengers confirm their flight arrangements with airlines before heading to the airport to prevent any inconveniences arising from changes to individual schedules.

The resumption of normal operations follows a period of disruption caused by a strike by aviation workers, which began on August 30, 2026. The strike, led by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), involved air traffic controllers, and workers from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and KAA. The dispute centered on labor grievances, including stalled Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), remuneration, employment benefits, union agency fees, working conditions, and grievances involving KAA and Jambojet.