Flight disruptions have been reported in and out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on February 16, 2026, following the start of a go-slow by airport workers. The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and various airlines have noted delays stemming from a labour dispute between the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). Workers are protesting stalled collective bargaining agreement negotiations and delayed union dues.
On February 16, 2026, flights in and out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) experienced delays following the initiation of a go-slow by airport workers. The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) issued a statement saying, "The Kenya Airport Authority informs the public of delays affecting departing flights at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport due to the ongoing labour dispute between the Kenya Aviation Workers Union and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority." Disruptions also affected Kisumu Airport, with Senator Khalwale among those impacted.
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) announced the action on February 9, 2026, to protest stalled collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations, delayed remittance of union dues, and alleged discrimination against contract workers. The union accused KCAA management of refusing to negotiate and failing to implement long-pending agreements dating back to 2015, despite multiple engagements.
On February 13, the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) temporarily blocked the planned strike, issuing interim orders preventing any industrial action that could disrupt operations until the case is heard and determined. Despite the court order, KAWU maintained it would proceed, arguing that workers' salaries had not been paid for years and they could no longer cope with the cost of living.
On February 14, KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema announced that the union would organize workers at the country's largest aviation hub for industrial action. He warned, “So to anybody and everybody who cares, we are going to have a tumultuous week. I just want to ask you to prepare; it could be today, it could be tomorrow... just prepare.”
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) activated contingency measures to ensure aviation safety and service continuity. Director General Emile Arao stated, "KCAA remains fully committed to its statutory mandate of ensuring the safety, security, and regulatory oversight of Kenya's civil aviation sector." Airlines advised schedule adjustments, and passengers were urged to expect changes. KAA reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety and operational excellence across all managed airports.
