Flights at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) faced widespread disruptions Monday as Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) members launched a strike, halting departures and arrivals for several hours.
Strikes by airport staff began before dawn, with workers removing equipment and blocking access to the terminal. Since then, no aircraft have been able to depart or arrive at the airport, according to airport authorities.
The airport authority issued a statement urging travelers to avoid the site due to ongoing industrial action, while Kenya Airways confirmed negotiations with union representatives to resolve the standoff.
"Due to the ongoing strike, KAWU members are refusing to work, and we urge travelers not to come to the airport until we can communicate the procedures," Kenya Airways stated.
Passengers reported chaotic scenes at the terminal, with long lines and limited information. Some travelers waited for hours in the terminal, while others attempted to rebook flights through social media.
Similar disruptions were reported at Mombasa and Kisumu airports, following the union's February 27 ultimatum demanding better working conditions and fair wages. The strike comes amid ongoing tensions between KAWU and Kenya Airways over management practices.
KAWU's national secretary accused the airline of undermining staff welfare, alleging that the company continues to pay low salaries and fail to provide adequate benefits to both senior and regular employees.
