Kenya Strike Delays Flights at International Hub Airport
Flights at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a crucial hub for travel to Europe, North America, and the Middle East, are facing significant delays due to a planned strike by aviation industry workers. Here’s what you need to know about the situation:
– Extent of Delays: Departing flights have been delayed by up to four hours, leaving some passengers stuck inside aircraft as pilots await clearance to take off.
– Airline Response: Kenya Airways reported experiencing air traffic control operational delays affecting certain departures and arrivals. The airline is actively working with authorities to minimize disruptions while ensuring safety.
– Passenger Advisory: The airline has alerted travelers to anticipate potential schedule changes and delays, while also apologizing for the inconvenience caused.
– Strike Background: The strike, initiated by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), was forewarned a week prior, stemming from grievances over pay and poor working conditions. KAWU Secretary-General Moss Ndiema confirmed that the strike commenced at 06:00 local time (03:00 GMT) and is impacting airlines nationwide.
– Travel Disruptions: The effects of the strike have prompted some travelers to seek alternative transportation. A senator traveling from Kisumu shared his frustration, saying he had to travel by road after hours of waiting at the airport. Another traveler humorously noted, If you have a flight today, just carry a mattress because you might be living at the airport.
– Airport Authority Actions: The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has implemented contingency plans at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and is encouraging passengers to check with their airlines for the latest updates.
– Labor Disputes: Aviation workers allege that the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has stalled salary negotiations and is discriminative against employees. They also accuse management of failing to address ongoing labor disputes that have persisted for over a decade.
– Legal Proceedings: Last week, the KCAA sought legal intervention to halt the strike, but a labor court judge suspended this action, pending further developments scheduled for next week. In response to the planned strike, the KCAA emphasized its commitment to engaging in discussions and maintaining aviation safety and service stability.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport stands as one of Africa’s busiest gateways, having handled approximately nine million passengers last year. The ongoing labor strike highlights the challenges in the aviation sector and its impact on travelers in and out of Kenya.
Stay updated with the situation and adjust your travel plans accordingly.