KCAA gives update on flight recovery after strike disruption warning
By Cynthia Lodite, February 16, 2026The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has issued an update on the recovery of flight operations in response to a planned strike by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU).
In a statement on Monday, February 16, 2026, KCAA said that recovery efforts are actively underway, and passenger backlogs are being cleared in a structured and prioritised manner.
“The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) wishes to provide the following update regarding flight operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Recovery efforts are actively underway, and passenger backlogs are being cleared in a structured and prioritized manner,” KCAA said.
According to the authority, operations are progressively stabilising, with normal schedules expected to resume as soon as possible.
On the other hand, KCAA has assured travellers that safety remains uncompromised, affirming that all aircraft movements continue to be managed in accordance with established aviation standards.
The authority has called on travellers to confirm flight details directly with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport.
“We acknowledge the inconvenience caused to passengers and sincerely appreciate the patience and cooperation extended during this period. Travellers are advised to confirm flight details directly with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport,” KCAA added
KCAA has further affirmed that the authority remains fully engaged with all aviation partners to ensure a smooth and orderly restoration of services.
The strike
KAWU announced a nationwide strike on Monday, February 9, 2026, to protest stalled collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations, delayed union dues remittance, and claims of discrimination against contract staff.
“We are determined to deliver a CBA in one week if management accepts that those grades are unionisable. But if they continue to place barriers in our way, we are prepared to act,” KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema said.
The union accused the KCAA management of refusing to negotiate and failing to implement long-pending agreements dating back to 2015, despite several engagement attempts.
KAWU warned that the industrial action could disrupt air traffic operations, airport management, and technical services across Kenya.
However, the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) temporarily blocked the planned strike, issuing an interim order prohibiting any industrial action that could affect operations until the court case is scheduled for hearing and determination on February 26, 2026.
Following ELRC’s decision, the KCAA reassured the public that all flight operations would continue safely and without disruption throughout the standoff.
“KCAA understands that this situation may raise concerns among passengers, airline partners, employees, and the wider public,’’ it said.