Kenya aviation workers have ended a two-day strike that disrupted flights at the country’s main international airport in Nairobi.
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union called off the strike Tuesday after reaching an agreement with the Kenya Airports Authority and other parties.
The industrial action began Sunday and caused widespread flight cancellations and delays, leaving many passengers stranded at airports across the country.
Strike Ends After Union Reaches Agreement
Moss Ndiema, head of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union, confirmed that workers had immediately stopped the strike.
The union had launched the action over several concerns involving employment practices, staff compensation and proposed changes to the management of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.
The dispute affected airport operations for two days before the sides reached an agreement.
Passengers Face Delays and Cancellations
The strike created major problems for travelers using Nairobi as a regional and international transportation hub.
Many passengers faced canceled flights or lengthy delays. Some travelers also worried about the financial consequences of missing connecting flights or business commitments.
Hellen Moraa, who was traveling to the Netherlands through Dubai for business, said the disruption could cost her money.
“It is unfair,” she said Monday while at the airport.
Disruption Spreads Beyond Nairobi
The industrial action did not only affect Nairobi.
Operations at several other airports across Kenya were also disrupted as unionized employees took part in the strike.
Because Nairobi serves as a major gateway for regional and international travel, disruption at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport can quickly affect passengers and flights across the wider region.
Workers Raise Employment Concerns
Union members have raised several complaints about working conditions.
They accused authorities of using unfair staff hiring practices and called for better compensation. Workers also objected to proposed changes concerning the management of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The union has repeatedly pushed for improved pay and working conditions.
Airport Faces Repeated Labor Disputes
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has experienced repeated industrial action in recent years.
Workers have used strikes and other forms of industrial pressure to demand better compensation and improved workplace conditions.
The latest dispute follows another strike in February that also disrupted airport operations and left passengers stranded.
Nairobi Airport Remains Key Travel Hub
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is one of Kenya’s most important transportation centers.
It handles large numbers of domestic, regional and international travelers, making stable airport operations vital for tourism, trade and business.
The end of the latest strike should allow airlines and airport staff to return to normal operations after two days of disruption.
However, the recurring labor disputes highlight continuing tensions between aviation workers and airport authorities over pay, employment practices and working conditions.
