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Kenya Airways Warns of Flight Delays at JKIA as Aviation Workers Strike Bites

Passenger on flight KQ 003 collapsed mid-air
Passenger on flight KQ 003 collapsed mid-air. PHOTO/COURTESY
  • Kenya Airways has reported major flight disruptions at JKIA due to an ongoing workers’ strike.
  • The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has taken industrial action over long-standing labour concerns.
  • Passengers have been advised to confirm flight details and consider rebooking where necessary.
  • The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority says key safety and air navigation services remain active.
  • The union is demanding salary reviews, CBA implementation, and better terms for contract staff.

Operations at Kenya Airways have been disrupted following industrial action by members of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union.

In a statement issued Monday, the national carrier confirmed that both incoming and outgoing flights at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport have been affected. Travellers have been warned to prepare for delays and possible changes to flight schedules.

The airline said it regrets the inconvenience caused and is working with airport authorities and other aviation partners to reduce the impact while ensuring passenger safety.

Kenya Airways has urged customers to confirm their flight status before heading to the airport. The airline also encouraged passengers to keep checking its official communication platforms for updates.

Those affected have been advised to explore rebooking options where necessary as the situation continues to unfold.

Amid the disruptions, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority announced that it had put in place measures to maintain essential services.

The authority said critical safety operations and air navigation services remain functional under existing contingency plans. It added that it is engaging stakeholders in line with labour laws and court directives.

KCAA emphasised that it remains committed to dialogue and due process in handling the matter.

Union Cites Long-Standing Grievances

The strike stems from concerns raised by KAWU over unresolved labour issues. The union has accused relevant bodies of delaying action on key demands.

Among the main complaints are the lack of salary reviews for workers who have served for more than 11 years. The union is also pushing for full implementation of Collective Bargaining Agreements and better employment terms for contract staff, including access to pension benefits.

KAWU has insisted that reforms are necessary to improve the welfare of aviation workers.

With talks ongoing, passengers using JKIA are facing uncertainty as the strike continues. While authorities say essential systems are running, the full impact on flight schedules remains fluid.

For now, travellers are being urged to stay informed and make alternative plans where possible as efforts to resolve the standoff continue.

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