Kenya Airways Flights Hit As Aviation Workers Strike Rocks JKIA

By Robai Ludenyi

Passengers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) are facing disruptions this week after the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) launched a strike that has affected some of the nation’s busiest flights.

Kenya Airways has warned travelers of delays and changes to both departures and arrivals. Passengers are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport, follow Kenya Airways’ official communication channels for updates, and consider rebooking options where necessary.

The strike stems from longstanding grievances by KAWU, including the lack of salary reviews for members who have served for over 11 years. The union is also pressing for full implementation of Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) and the inclusion of contract staff in pensionable employment terms, which they say management has neglected.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has activated its operational continuity measures to ensure critical functions, including aviation safety and air navigation, remain fully operational. The regulator is engaging relevant stakeholders in line with labour laws and court directions while remaining open to constructive dialogue.

Travellers are warned that while safety remains intact, delays and schedule adjustments are inevitable. For many, what should have been a routine journey has turned into a waiting game as labour disputes unfold at the heart of Kenya’s aviation sector.

With no immediate resolution in sight, passengers and airlines are bracing for further disruptions, highlighting the delicate balance between protecting workers’ rights and keeping the country’s skies operational.

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