Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) faced severe disruptions on Wednesday after workers initiated a strike, halting operations and stranding passengers. The action, which began at midnight, involved the withdrawal of fire engines from runways and the suspension of all flight landings.
Police deployed tear gas to disperse striking workers during morning clashes, as tensions escalated over the workers' demands. The strike followed a formal notice issued on 29 February 2019, protesting the planned transfer of airport management to Kenya Airways. Employees also cited grievances regarding the board of management, staffing practices, and compensation policies.
Kenya Airways urged affected passengers to avoid the airport, stating: "Customers on flights after 11am are advised not to come to the airport until further communication is shared." The airline warned of ongoing flight disruptions due to the industrial action.
