NAIROBI, Kenya — Operations at Kenya’s primary aviation hub are returning to normal following the resolution of a two-day labor strike that had severely disrupted air travel. The industrial action, which commenced on Monday and paralyzed activities at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, was called off on Tuesday after productive negotiations between airport workers’ representatives and government transportation officials.
The work stoppage created significant travel disruptions, with flight delays extending up to six hours and airlines advising passengers to reschedule their journeys. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority confirmed in an official statement that airport functions would resume immediately following the successful mediation between the transport ministry and the trade union.
Labor representatives had initiated the strike to demand improved working conditions, enhanced compensation packages, and better benefits for airport staff. These concerns were addressed during Tuesday’s discussions, which focused on implementing measures to meet the workers’ requirements.
As a critical transportation nexus for both regional and international flights, the airport’s operational stability is considered vital to East Africa’s connectivity. Kenya Airways announced it was progressively normalizing its flight schedule, anticipating full operational resumption within 24 hours.
Transport Minister Davies Chirchir reaffirmed the government’s dedication to maintaining stability within the aviation sector, emphasizing the importance of uninterrupted airport operations. The labor union had previously issued a strike notice last week after authorities failed to execute portions of an earlier agreement addressing labor conditions and compensation.