Inside deal that ended aviation workers' strike at Kenya’s airports
The agreement covers agency fees, collective bargaining negotiations, a recognition dispute involving Jambojet, the immediate return of workers and protection against victimisation.
The agreement covers agency fees, collective bargaining negotiations, a recognition dispute involving Jambojet, the immediate return of workers and protection against victimisation.
In a customer update issued on Monday, the national carrier said the industrial action by Air Traffic Control (ATC) workers had created a flight backlog, forcing it to reschedule and cancel some flights.
KAWU had earlier warned that airport operations across the country could be affected after issuing a strike notice, saying its grievances had remained unresolved despite previous engagements.
According to the board, the appointment follows a structured selection process designed to identify a candidate with extensive experience in infrastructure development and large-scale project delivery across multiple international markets.
The MD/CEO will report to the Chairperson of the Board of Directors and serve as the Accounting Officer, responsible for managing daily operations, leading strategic initiatives, driving revenue, engaging stakeholders, managing risk, and promoting efficiency across the Authority.
In a press statement released on February 23, 2026, KAA emphasized that airport access control measures remained fully operational and strictly enforced in accordance with national civil aviation security regulations.
According to KAA, the breakthrough followed a “successful mediation meeting” convened by Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir. The talks brought together officials from the Ministry of Labour, KAA, the union, and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority.
The move is part of the Authority’s drive to enhance aviation safety, improve air transport services, and strengthen connectivity in regional hubs.
KAA noted that operations at the busy airport remain normal and reassured the public of its continued commitment to the safety, security, and efficiency of airport operations.
The inaugural flight from Istanbul touched down on the dawn of October 27, 2025, receiving a ceremonial water-cannon salute symbolizing renewed confidence in Mombasa as a global gateway.
Through the e-GP system, KAA expects to streamline interactions with suppliers, reduce manual paperwork, minimize delays, and allow all stakeholders to track procurement activities easily online.
KAA’s Acting Managing Director, Mohamud Gedi, expressed gratitude to the KAA Board of Directors, led by Chairman Caleb Kositany, as well as government ministries for facilitating the talks.
The court issued the directive on Monday morning after KAA moved to court seeking orders to stop the strike. Both the union and the management appeared before the Ministry at 11 am for the session, which continued until 7:45 pm before it was adjourned. The talks are expected to resume on Tuesday morning.
In a statement seen by Radio Generation, KCAA said all statutory functions under the Civil Aviation Act remain unaffected.
The Air Passenger Service Charge (Amendment) Bill, 2025, tabled by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, seeks to expand the list of agencies receiving the levy to include the weather department.
KAA indicated that airport emergency services, alongside first responders, are actively managing the situation
The authority said Nairobi will experience partial and full road closures as part of security and logistical preparations for the continental tournament.
The land, which belongs to the Kenya Airports Authority, was subdivided and transferred without a valid Physical Development Plan, lacked any formal application, and was not subjected to statutory fees.
KAA advised travellers heading to JKIA to consider using the Outer Ring Road via Ruai or Thika Road, depending on their direction. For Wilson Airport, alternative feeder roads along Lang’ata Road and Mombasa Road were recommended.
The system will enable swift and safe removal of stalled aircraft from runways, enhancing passenger safety and minimizing service disruptions at the country’s busiest airport.