A workers' strike at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi disrupted flights for a second consecutive day, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded overnight on August 31, 2026 [1, 2]. The strike involves aviation sector workers demanding better working conditions and implementation of a previously agreed collective bargaining deal [1, 2].
Kenya Airways reported flight delays exceeding six hours and canceled some departures due to industrial action by air traffic control staff [1]. RwandAir canceled two flights Monday following cancellations on Sunday, citing operational constraints caused by the prolonged strike [1].
Passengers expressed frustration at the lack of timely updates and long wait times. Mendel Goldman said, "The earliest flight they can get us is only tomorrow night, so we've got to wait. I've been here for 12 hours now, waiting in the airport" [1]. William Obino said, "Nothing is happening, updates are reaching us late. It's ruining our itinerary" [1, 2].
The strike also opposes the use of volunteers from the National Youth Service as airport staff, along with unresolved bargaining issues between unions and management [2].
JKIA is a key regional hub that served about 9 million passengers last year. It plays a vital role in East African tourism and transit [1, 2]. The Kenya Airports Authority said it is working closely with aviation agencies and airlines to manage the situation and minimize disruption [2].
Flight disruptions began on Sunday, August 30, with delays and cancellations, and continued into Monday, August 31, stranding many overnight at the airport [1, 2]. A new round of talks between unions and airport managers is scheduled soon, though previous discussions ended without agreement [1].
