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Flight operations at Kenya’s primary international gateway, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), have been severely disrupted due to a strike initiated by aviation workers, causing significant delays for passengers. The action, which began early this morning, is a response to ongoing grievances regarding pay and working conditions within the sector.
Significant Delays Impact Passengers
According to reports from Kenya Airways, numerous flights in and out of JKIA are facing delays of up to four hours. Frustrated passengers have reported being confined to aircraft for extended periods as pilots await clearance to depart. The airline issued a statement acknowledging “air traffic control operational delays affecting certain departures and arrivals” and pledged to collaborate with relevant authorities to mitigate the impact of these disruptions.
“Passengers are advised to anticipate potential schedule adjustments, including delays,” the airline remarked, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused.
Underlying Issues of the Strike
The strike follows a warning from the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) issued a week prior, highlighting the workers’ discontent over inadequate pay and deteriorating working conditions. KAWU Secretary-General Moss Ndiema confirmed that the strike commenced at 06:00 local time (03:00 GMT) and has already created a significant backlog at the airport, with many planes unable to take off.
“There’s a big backlog. Planes are hardly leaving the airports,” Ndiema stated, illustrating the immediate impact of the walkout on both airlines and passengers.
Response from Authorities
In light of the strike, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has activated contingency measures at JKIA and urged travellers to communicate with their respective airlines for the latest updates. The aviation workforce has expressed frustration towards the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), accusing it of stalling salary negotiations and failing to address long-standing labour disputes.
The KCAA attempted to seek legal intervention to halt the strike, but a labour court judge suspended these actions pending further court directives expected next week. In a recent statement, the KCAA confirmed it is actively engaging with the involved parties “in line with applicable labour laws and court directions” to ensure aviation safety and service stability during this tumultuous period.
Broader Implications for the Aviation Sector
This strike highlights a deeper crisis within Kenya’s aviation sector, where workers have voiced concerns over stalled negotiations and perceived discrimination. The ongoing unrest not only affects daily operations but could also have lasting repercussions on the country’s reputation as a regional hub for air travel.
As the situation develops, it is imperative for both the workers and the authorities to engage in constructive dialogue to address these critical issues.
Why it Matters
The disruptions at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within the aviation industry, particularly in developing regions. With air travel being a vital component of economic activity and connectivity in Africa, prolonged strikes could deter international business and tourism, further exacerbating economic challenges. The resolution of such disputes is essential not only for restoring normalcy but also for fostering a more sustainable and equitable aviation sector in Kenya.
