Flight operations across Kenya’s major airports are expected to return to normal after the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) called off its industrial action following a return-to-work agreement with government agencies and aviation industry stakeholders.
The agreement, signed on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, brings an end to the strike that began on August 30 and caused significant delays and flight cancellations at key airports, including Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The deal was reached during high-level conciliation meetings chaired by Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir and attended by Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr Alfred Mutua.
Also present were senior government officials, Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Dr Francis Atwoli, and executives from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and Jambojet Limited.
Passengers Stranded as Strike Disrupted Flights
The industrial action entered its second day on Monday, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at JKIA and other airports across the country.
Several flights were heavily delayed or cancelled as airlines advised travellers to prepare for possible changes to their travel schedules.
The strike began on Sunday after aviation workers represented by KAWU declared a go-slow across Kenyan airports. The workers demanded improved welfare, better working conditions and the implementation of previously agreed employment benefits.
Talks held on Sunday failed to produce an agreement, prolonging uncertainty for passengers and airlines. A fresh round of negotiations between union officials, airport managers and government representatives was subsequently convened on Monday as efforts to resolve the dispute intensified.
Key Issues Resolved in the Agreement
Under the return-to-work agreement, the parties reached several resolutions addressing the union’s concerns.
Remittance of agency fees
The Kenya Airports Authority agreed to immediately release and remit union agency fees currently held in its custody to KAWU.
Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations
KAWU and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority will immediately proceed with negotiations for a Collective Bargaining Agreement.
The decision follows the withdrawal by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission of guidance issued on July 28, 2026, and the introduction of new framework parameters.
KCAA management committed to negotiating in good faith and implementing the outcome of the CBA discussions.
Jambojet recognition dispute
KAWU and Jambojet Limited agreed to await the outcome of an ongoing court case concerning trade union recognition. Both parties committed to respecting and abiding by the court’s determination.
KAA management and workers’ grievances
The government also undertook to address matters relating to the top management of the Kenya Airports Authority.
Other grievances raised by the union in its strike notice dated July 20, 2026, will be subjected to arbitration led by the Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development. The arbitration process is expected to be completed within three weeks.
Flight Operations Expected to Normalise
With the union calling off the strike and workers expected to resume their duties, flight operations at JKIA and other affected airports are expected to stabilise gradually.
Passengers have, however, been advised to confirm their flight schedules directly with their airlines as carriers clear delays and manage the backlog created during the industrial action.
The agreement provides temporary relief to travellers and aviation stakeholders while allowing the union, government agencies and employers to continue resolving outstanding labour concerns through negotiation, arbitration and the courts.
