Flight operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) remain significantly disrupted as an aviation workers’ strike enters its second day, causing delays, cancellations and growing frustration among travellers.
The industrial action, led by members of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), stems from a labour dispute with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). The strike has particularly affected air traffic control services, triggering operational challenges at Kenya’s busiest airport.
Airlines Issue Travel Advisories
Low-cost carrier Jambojet on Tuesday morning warned customers of continued disruptions, noting that air traffic control constraints had affected flight schedules. The airline urged passengers not to proceed to the airport until they receive confirmation about their flight status.
“The situation remains fluid, and we are closely monitoring developments in coordination with the relevant airport authorities,” Jambojet said in a statement.
National carrier Kenya Airways also alerted passengers to delays and advised them to contact the airline before heading to the airport.
Flight tracking platforms indicated “moderate and increasing” delays at JKIA, with multiple airlines affected by the backlog that began when the strike commenced on Monday.
Safety Concerns Raised
The ongoing disruptions have drawn concern from the Kenya Airline Pilots Association (KALPA), which cautioned that prolonged operational strain could pose safety risks.
KALPA said flight delays, diversions and cancellations may interfere with crew scheduling and mandatory rest periods, potentially increasing fatigue among pilots.
“Aviation safety is non-negotiable,” the association stated, stressing the need to strictly observe Flight Duty Period (FDP) limitations and mandatory rest requirements to maintain internationally accepted safety standards.
Authorities Seek Normalcy
On Monday night, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) said it was working closely with KCAA, airlines and other stakeholders to restore normal operations at the airport. Passengers have been advised to remain in contact with their respective airlines for updates on rebooking and revised schedules.
Travellers have reported frustration over cancelled flights and landing challenges, with some passengers turned back or forced to reschedule journeys. Among those affected was National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss, who reported that her Tuesday morning flight had been cancelled.
As negotiations between aviation workers and authorities continue, uncertainty remains over when full operations will resume at JKIA, East Africa’s key aviation hub.
