Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta Airport Resumes Operations After Workers End Strike

Operations at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport are set to resume after airport workers ended a two-day strike following an agreement with the transport ministry. The strike, which caused flight delays of up to six hours, was over pay, benefits, and working conditions. Kenya Airways and authorities are now working to restore normal flight schedules within 24 hours.

Operations at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport are set to resume fully after airport workers called off a two-day strike on Tuesday following a negotiated agreement with the Kenyan transport ministry. The strike, which began on Monday, brought airport operations to a near halt, causing widespread disruption including flight delays of up to six hours. Airlines had urged passengers to rebook their travel as air traffic at the country’s busiest airport was severely affected, highlighting the critical role the airport plays as a regional and international travel hub.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) released a statement confirming that operations would resume immediately after the trade union and the ministry reached a return-to-work agreement. The union had been demanding improvements in working conditions, higher pay, and better employee benefits. Discussions on Tuesday focused on how these demands would be implemented and how compliance with the agreement would be monitored to prevent future disruptions.
Transport Minister Davies Chirchir emphasized that the government remains committed to ensuring stability in the aviation sector, which is vital for Kenya’s economy and connectivity. He stated that the resolution of the strike demonstrates the government’s willingness to engage with workers and address their concerns while safeguarding the smooth operation of air transport services.
Kenya Airways also issued a statement, noting that it is in the process of normalizing its flight schedules and expects all operations to return to normal within 24 hours. The airline reassured travelers that services would be restored promptly, and any disruptions during the strike would be managed efficiently.
The strike had been triggered after authorities failed to implement parts of a prior agreement with the union, which outlined better labor conditions, pay increases, and enhanced benefits for airport staff. Workers had issued a strike notice last week, signaling their frustration with delays in meeting these commitments.
The resolution of the strike is seen as a significant step toward ensuring uninterrupted air travel at Nairobi’s main airport. Both the government and the union have indicated that mechanisms will be put in place to address future disputes, thereby preventing sudden disruptions to critical airport operations. The quick end to the strike and the agreement reached also underscore the importance of dialogue between government authorities and labor unions in maintaining stability in strategic sectors such as aviation, which directly impacts Kenya’s economy, international connectivity, and passenger safety.
Overall, the end of the strike is expected to restore confidence among travelers and airlines, ensuring that Nairobi’s airport can continue functioning as a central hub for regional and international air traffic without further interruptions.