Kenya’s aviation is bracing for turbulence after the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) issued a seven-day strike notice.
The union announced the strike is set to begin on Monday, July 20, 2026 and will involve employees at the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and airlines.
“They will know that power resides in us more than in them. Seven days from Monday, you are likely to face inconveniences and challenges if you are to use our facilities in this country,” Ndiema said.
The union warns that unless long-standing grievances are addressed, operations at all major airports, including Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) will grind to halt, disrupting both passenger travel and cargo logistics.
According to KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema, the strike was triggered by “persistent violations of Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs).”
“We want a successful, prosperous aviation sector, but that cannot be achieved at the detriment of workers’ rights. We will not allow that,” he added.
KCAA workers have gone without a new collective bargaining agreement since June 2015, leaving salaries stagnant for over a decade. The union also accuses KCAA of failing to absorb contract staff into permanent positions despite a court directive.
If the strike proceeds, thousands of travelers could be affected and stranded at JKIA and regional airports, with flights canceled or delayed.