Kenya Airways planes are seen through a window as the Jomo Kenyatta international airport in Nairobi, Kenya August 1, 2020
Kenya Airways has announced significant flight disruptions at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) following an ongoing nationwide strike by aviation workers, with some passengers experiencing delays of more than six hours.
In a communique issued on Monday, Kenya Airways said the industrial action had affected flight operations, resulting in a backlog that has forced some flights to be rescheduled.
The national carrier advised passengers to only travel to the airport after confirming their flight status to avoid unnecessary delays and inconvenience.
Passengers have also been encouraged to ensure their contact details are up to date so they can receive the latest notifications regarding their flights.
Those wishing to reschedule their flights have been advised to contact Kenya Airways. The airline said passengers affected by the disruptions would be allowed to reschedule their flights without penalties.
Kenya Airways said its teams were working to clear the backlog and restore normal operations as quickly as possible while minimising the impact of the disruptions on passengers.
Aviation Workers’ Strike
The industrial action began on Sunday after aviation workers represented by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) declared go-slows at airports across the country.
The workers are demanding improved welfare, better working conditions and the implementation of employment benefits that they say were previously agreed upon.
The strike has disrupted flight operations, with several airlines reporting delays and rescheduling of flights.
By Sunday evening, a number of passengers had been left stranded at airports across the country as the industrial action continued.
The situation at JKIA, Kenya’s main international aviation hub, is being closely monitored as efforts continue to resolve the dispute and restore normal flight operations.
