Operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport have resumed after the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) signed a return-to-work formula, officially ending the Air Traffic Control (ATC) staff strike that had paralysed airports across the country.
In a press statement iissued on Tuesday, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) confirmed that the agreement followed a successful mediation meeting led by Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir. The talks brought together officials from the Ministry of Labour, KAA, KAWU and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
KAA commended all parties for what it described as constructive engagement that paved the way for restoration of services.
Nationwide Disruptions
The industrial action had brought operations at major airports to a standstill, with flights delayed and passengers stranded. Workers downed their tools over grievances linked to the implementation of new human resource instruments.
Union officials claimed that the changes were introduced by both KCAA and KAA without adequate consultation with employees, sparking tensions within the aviation sector.
KAWU Secretary General Moses Ndiema had earlier warned that aviation workers would not resume duty unless their concerns were addressed. He cautioned that the dispute risked escalating into a full-scale nationwide strike if no agreement was reached, with workers from KAA expected to join their counterparts at KCAA.
The standoff raised fears of significant economic losses, given the critical role airports play in tourism, trade and regional connectivity.
Operations Normalising
Following the signing of the return-to-work formula, KAA said operations are now normalising across all airports. Passengers have been advised to contact their respective airlines for updated flight schedules as airlines work to clear backlogs caused by the disruption.
KAA reiterated its commitment to safety and operational excellence, assuring travellers and stakeholders that measures are in place to ensure smooth airport operations moving forward.