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KCAA assures uninterrupted air services amid labour talks with aviation workers

KCAA said issues that had prompted a strike notice by the Kenya Aviation Workers’ Union (KAWU) were being addressed through ongoing engagements, with significant progress already achieved.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has assured the public that aviation operations across the country will continue without disruption despite recent concerns over industrial action raised by aviation workers.

In a press statement issued on March 21, 2026, KCAA said issues that had prompted a strike notice by the Kenya Aviation Workers’ Union (KAWU) were being addressed through ongoing engagements, with significant progress already achieved.

“The matters giving rise to the strike notice have been addressed constructively through ongoing engagements at Board level, senior management and through a conciliation process resulting in significant progress,” the authority said.

The regulator noted that the conciliation process, facilitated by a conciliator appointed by the Ministry of Labour, remains ongoing as both parties work toward a common understanding and long-term industrial harmony within the sector.

“The process… is still ongoing to reach a common understanding and to lay a firm foundation in industrial relations harmony between the parties,” KCAA stated.

The assurance comes days after heightened concern within the aviation sector following public statements by KAWU, which had raised the possibility of industrial action that could potentially disrupt air travel.

However, KCAA moved to calm fears, noting that contingency measures are firmly in place to ensure continuity of services.

“KCAA can now assure all stakeholders that there will be no disruption to operations and all aviation services will continue as normal across the country,” the statement read.

The authority further reiterated its commitment to maintaining stable labour relations within the aviation industry, both domestically and in line with international standards.

It reiterated that efforts to resolve the dispute are being handled through established legal and institutional frameworks.

“The Authority remains committed to sustaining a harmonious relationship generally in the Aviation Industry in Kenya, internationally and with all related publics,” KCAA said.

In addition to addressing labour concerns, KCAA highlighted that it has implemented robust safeguards to maintain operational integrity, safety, and security across all aviation services.

The regulator emphasised that these measures are aligned with its statutory mandate to oversee and regulate civil aviation in Kenya.

“KCAA further confirms that robust measures remain in place to safeguard service delivery and uphold the highest standards of safety and security,” the statement added.

The authority also expressed appreciation to stakeholders, including passengers, airlines, and industry partners, for their patience and understanding during the ongoing discussions.

“We thank all stakeholders for their understanding and patience,” the statement concluded.

KCAA, established under the Civil Aviation Act, is responsible for regulating and overseeing aviation safety, security, and economic regulation in Kenya.

It also provides air navigation services and conducts training of aviation personnel, guided by international standards, including those set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

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