Kenya: KCAA Promises Structured Clearing of Backlog Amid Workers Strike

16 February 2026

Nairobi — The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) says efforts are ongoing to restore normal flight operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), assuring passengers that backlogs caused by the ongoing aviation workers' go-slow are being cleared in a structured and prioritized manner.

In a statement issued Monday, KCAA said recovery efforts are actively underway, with operations progressively stabilizing and normal schedules expected to resume as soon as possible.

"Recovery efforts are actively underway, and passenger backlogs are being cleared in a structured and prioritized manner. Operations are progressively stabilizing, with normal schedules expected to resume as soon as possible," the authority said.

The regulator emphasized that safety remains uncompromised, noting that all aircraft movements continue to be managed in accordance with established aviation standards.

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Travelers were advised to confirm flight details directly with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport.

The industrial action, announced by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), has disrupted operations across several airports, including in Kisumu, where flights to and from Kisumu International Airport were affected, leaving dozens of passengers stranded.

Chaos

Union officials say the strike stems from unresolved grievances, including poor working conditions, delayed salary payments and concerns over restructuring within the aviation sector.

At Kisumu's terminal, frustrated passengers waited for updates as airline counters struggled to provide timely information.

Taxi operators outside the airport also reported heavy losses due to reduced passenger traffic.

Amid the disruptions, Kenya Airways urged travelers to regularly check their flight status following KCAA's activation of contingency protocols.

In a statement, the national carrier advised passengers to use its website, mobile app and official communication channels for real-time updates.

"The airline is working closely with KCAA and relevant authorities to manage delays and ensure passenger safety during this period," Kenya Airways said.

The airline encouraged passengers to arrive early at airports and remain flexible, noting that schedules may be adjusted to accommodate operational challenges.

It reiterated its commitment to keeping travelers informed and minimizing disruptions, urging customers to contact its customer care channels for assistance.

KCAA promised to work with aviation partners to ensure a smooth and orderly restoration of services across affected airports, even as tensions within the sector continue to impact travelers and airport-dependent businesses.

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