Kenya Pilots Association Calls for Dialogue as Aviation Go-Slow Disrupts Flights
News Updated: 17 February 2026 14:25 EAT
The Kenya Airline Pilots Association has urged urgent dialogue to resolve the ongoing aviation workers’ strike that has disrupted flight operations across the country. The pilots’ body warned that the continued go-slow is affecting crew scheduling and mandatory rest periods, raising operational and safety concerns.
The industrial action, led by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union, entered its second day with significant slowdowns reported at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and other airports. Departures and arrivals have faced delays, cancellations and last-minute changes, leaving passengers stranded or scrambling to adjust travel plans.
Pilots say the disruption of normal rostering systems is interfering with regulated flight duty time limitations. Aviation regulations require strict compliance with rest requirements to prevent fatigue and ensure safe aircraft operations. The association stressed that operational safety standards must remain uncompromised despite the labour dispute.
The union representing aviation workers has cited unresolved grievances with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, including stalled negotiations over labour matters. Although legal efforts were made to stop the strike, workers proceeded with the industrial action, intensifying pressure on the aviation sector.
Airlines have advised travellers to confirm flight schedules before heading to the airport as adjustments continue throughout the day. Some carriers reported delays stretching several hours as air traffic services and ground operations slowed down.
The aviation regulator has indicated that contingency measures are in place to maintain essential safety and navigation services. Authorities say teams are working to clear operational backlogs while engaging stakeholders to restore normalcy.
Industry players warn that prolonged disruption could affect tourism, cargo transport and regional connectivity, particularly at Nairobi’s main aviation hub which handles a large share of East Africa’s international traffic.
The pilots’ association maintains that structured negotiations remain the most effective path toward resolving the dispute. It has called on all parties to prioritise dialogue to safeguard safety standards and minimise further disruption to passengers and the broader economy.
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FELIX MAKONA
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