Chaos reigned at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi today after a sudden workers’ strike crippled flight schedules. Passengers endured massive backups, with many flights delayed or grounded amid the labor action that caught many off guard.
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union launched the walkout over unresolved issues from a 2015 collective bargaining agreement. Workers claim years of broken promises on pay hikes and benefits, despite prior warnings issued a week ago. The KCAA had sought a court injunction to halt the action, but it proceeded regardless.
As one of Africa’s busiest airports, Jomo Kenyatta processes enormous passenger and cargo traffic daily. The strike’s impact rippled through air traffic control, forcing airlines like Kenya Airways to issue real-time alerts through digital channels.
In a press release, the Kenya Airports Authority confirmed contingency measures were in place. ‘Please contact your airline for the latest flight information,’ they advised, as teams worked to clear backlogs systematically.
KCAA chief Emil Arao detailed the recovery plan: phased restoration of flights, with high-priority services first. He noted that passenger numbers were being managed orderly, with full normalcy anticipated shortly.
Travelers are urged to verify bookings ahead and allow buffer time. This strike not only exposed vulnerabilities in airport staffing but also spotlights the need for decisive action on labor disputes to safeguard Kenya’s vital aviation infrastructure.