A strike launched by Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi began with a go-slow on August 30, 2026, affecting ground handling teams, cargo workers, support personnel, some air traffic control and airport authority employees, and escalated into a full strike on August 31. The strike disrupted operations at JKIA and Moi International Airport (Mombasa), leaving thousands of passengers stranded with long queues at check-in and security desks.
Flight delays exceeded six hours, and some flights were canceled entirely. Kenya Airways warned of severe disruptions, waived change fees, and Kenya Airways subsidiary Jambojet was
also affected. RwandAir canceled two flights on the Nairobi-Kigali route on August 30 due to air traffic control issues at JKIA.
Labor Dispute Underlying Strike
The strike results from unresolved collective bargaining agreement negotiations with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority. KAWU demands improved working conditions, pay scales, benefits, staffing levels, and enforcement of agreed benefits. The union had issued formal strike notices in February 2026, warning of walkouts if negotiations stalled.
Traveler Impact and Airport Conditions
Passengers reported waits of up to 12 hours at JKIA, with some spending the night inside terminals due to canceled and postponed flights. Some airlines provided limited hotel accommodation, unable to meet demand.
Long queues and restricted terminal access aggravated congestion and delayed processing.
Official Responses and Statements
Kenya Airways cautioned customers about significant disruptions and waived change fees. KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema confirmed ongoing strike action with negotiations scheduled for 11 a.m. on August 31, 2026, but no resolution yet. Kenya Airports Authority acknowledged some flight delays without further comment by August 31.
Passenger Experiences and Regional Implications
Passenger Rabbi Mendel Goldman described a flight delayed from 1:00 a.m. to 4:30 a.m. before cancellation, leaving him stranded at JKIA for 12 hours with the earliest available flight the next evening. The strike disrupted regional carriers dependent on Nairobi as a
hub and impacted cargo handling, potentially affecting horticulture exports to Europe.
Negotiations and Strike Status
Union and government representatives met on August 30, 2026, but failed to reach agreement. Negotiations continued on August 31 from 11 a.m., with Moss Ndiema stating, “We agreed to continue negotiations tomorrow, from 11 a.m. In the meantime, the strike is continuing.” The strike’s duration beyond August 31 remains uncertain.
