Passengers stranded at Kenya’s main airport as aviation strike enters 2nd day

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) – Hundreds of passengers remained stranded on Tuesday at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, as an aviation workers' strike over working conditions and reforms in the industry entered its second day, disrupting domestic and international flights.

The "go-slow" strike has slowed air traffic operations and caused flight delays for nearly four hours since Monday, keeping passengers in departure halls and forcing airlines to adjust schedules across the country's airspace.

Authorities said the government is working with aviation agencies and unions to restore normal operations.

The Kenya Airline Pilots Association expressed concern over the disruptions, saying the action by members of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union, including air traffic control personnel, has significantly affected flight operations nationwide.

In a statement on Tuesday, the association said the action has caused delays, diversions, and cancellations that have disrupted travel plans and affected stakeholders across the aviation sector.

The pilots’ union stressed that safety remains the top priority despite the operational challenges, as airlines and aviation authorities work to maintain orderly air traffic management.

Kenya Airways reported that departures from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport were experiencing delays of up to four hours due to air traffic control disruptions. The airline stated that it has adjusted its network and is collaborating with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and airport stakeholders to minimize the impact on passengers while ensuring safe operations.

“Passengers are advised to expect schedule adjustments,” Kenya Airways said, urging travelers to check flight status before heading to the airport and to monitor official communication channels for updates. The airline added that rebooking options are available through its mobile app and website.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is East and Central Africa’s busiest aviation hub and a key gateway for regional and intercontinental travel. Prolonged disruption at the airport has had ripple effects across airlines operating in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

Union officials say the protest is linked to long-standing grievances over working conditions, staffing levels, and proposed sector reforms that workers fear could affect jobs and operational control within the aviation industry. The Kenya Aviation Workers Union has called for urgent dialogue with authorities and aviation regulators to address the concerns.

The government has opened negotiations with union representatives and aviation agencies, saying it is seeking a quick resolution to prevent prolonged disruption to travel and trade. Officials warned that extended delays could affect cargo movement, tourism, and regional connectivity if the dispute continues.