Disruption at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport: A Two-Day Strike by Aviation Workers

A strike by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi caused significant disruptions to flight operations, resulting in delays and cancellations for two consecutive days. The strike, which began on February 16, 2026, stemmed from unresolved grievances regarding pay and working conditions, particularly the failure to finalize a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that has been pending since 2015.

Flight Disruptions Reported at JKIA as Aviation Workers Warn of Week-Long DelaysStrike deal reached after two days of chaos at JKIANTV Kenya: Aviation workers’ strike disrupts flights at JKIA

• February 16, 2026: KAWU initiated the strike, leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations. Passengers reported being stranded for hours, with some sleeping on terminal floors.

Passengers stranded as JKIA disruptions stretch into day two

• February 17, 2026: The strike continued, prompting the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) to issue advisories about operational delays. The transport ministry intervened to facilitate negotiations between KAWU and KCAA.

KQ announces flight disruptions at JKIA

• February 17, 2026: After intensive negotiations, an agreement was reached, and KAWU called off the strike, allowing operations at JKIA to resume.

NTV Kenya: Aviation workers’ strike disrupts flights at JKIA

The strike left thousands of passengers stranded, with many reporting confusion and uncertainty regarding their travel plans. Kenya Airways and other airlines advised travelers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport, as delays of up to six hours were reported. The disruptions not only affected passenger travel but also had significant implications for cargo operations, particularly for perishable goods and exports.

Associated Press

Transport Minister Davies Chirchir emphasized the importance of the aviation sector to Kenya's economy and stated, “Aviation contributes immensely to the economy of the country, and we are committed to ensuring that the sector remains stable.” KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the negotiations, highlighting the government's willingness to engage with the union.

What KCAA, workers agreed in deal that ended JKIA strike

Despite the resolution, the strike underscored ongoing tensions between KAWU and KCAA. Workers raised concerns about stagnant salaries, the prevalence of temporary contracts for permanent roles, and the lack of consultation on new human resource policies. Critics argue that the government's failure to address these issues has led to labor instability, which could jeopardize Kenya's reputation as a regional aviation hub.

NTV Kenya: Aviation workers’ strike disrupts flights at JKIA

With operations at JKIA returning to normal, the focus shifts to the conciliatory process established by the Ministry of Labour to address outstanding worker concerns. Stakeholders hope that sustained dialogue will prevent future disruptions and enhance labor relations within the aviation sector.

What KCAA, workers agreed in deal that ended JKIA strike

• “We have agreed on a path forward that respects the rights of our workers and ensures the sustainability of the aviation sector,” — Moss Ndiema, KAWU Secretary General

Normalcy Returns to JKIA as Aviation Strike Ends

• “Aviation contributes immensely to the economy of the country, and we are committed to ensuring that the sector remains stable.” — Davies Chirchir, Transport Minister

Airport Workers Call Off Strike After Two-Day Disruptions of JKIA, Other Airports

The recent strike at JKIA serves as a reminder of the fragility of labor relations in critical infrastructure sectors and the need for ongoing dialogue to ensure stability in Kenya's aviation industry.

Kenya Airport Strike Ends After Two Days of Disruption at Nairobi’s JKIA