Aviation Workers’ Strike Disrupts Flights at JKIA
News Updated: 16 February 2026 21:53 EAT
Passengers stranded at JKIA
Operations at Kenya Airports Authority facilities were disrupted on Monday after aviation workers staged an industrial strike, causing delays and travel chaos at major airports led by Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Passengers at JKIA reported long queues at check-in counters and delayed departures as sections of airport staff downed tools in protest over unresolved labour grievances. Both domestic and international flights were affected.
The strike involves members of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union, who are pushing for the implementation of a collective bargaining agreement and improved working conditions. Union officials cited stalled negotiations with aviation authorities as the trigger for the walkout.
Airport operations, including ground handling and support services, experienced slowdowns, leading to a ripple effect across flight schedules. Several airlines advised travellers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
National carrier Kenya Airways acknowledged disruptions to its timetable and urged passengers to remain in contact through official communication channels for updates on departures and arrivals.
Authorities indicated that contingency measures were activated to safeguard critical safety functions, including air traffic coordination, even as negotiations to end the strike continued behind the scenes.
Travellers expressed frustration over limited communication and extended waiting times, with some reporting missed connections due to the delays.
The labour dispute centres on long-standing demands for better pay, enhanced working conditions and formal recognition of agreements between workers and management within the aviation sector.
As talks continue, government officials have called for dialogue to restore normal operations swiftly, warning that prolonged disruptions could affect regional connectivity and economic activity linked to Kenya’s busiest airport.
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FELIX MAKONA
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