KAWU strike notice to KCAA threatens to paralyze operations at JKIA next week.

Ujjwal Sukhwani
By Ujjwal SukhwaniPublished Feb 11, 2026 at 07:05 AM UTC, 2 min read

Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.

KAWU strike notice to KCAA threatens to paralyze operations at JKIA next week.

The Kenya Aviation Workers Union issued a seven-day strike notice to the KCAA; the move threatens to disrupt operations at JKIA starting next week.

Key Takeaways

  • KAWU issued a 7-day strike notice on February 9, 2026, over stalled CBA negotiations.
  • Industrial action is scheduled to begin on February 16, potentially grounding all Kenyan airports.
  • The dispute centers on 11 years of pay stagnation and the treatment of contract workers.
  • KCAA has assured the public of operational continuity while engaging in last-minute talks.

The Kenya Aviation Workers Union issued a notice.

It is a seven-day strike warning.

Workers target the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority.

This move could stop airport operations.

JKIA faces the biggest risk soon.

Other airports may also shut down.

Industrial action starts on February 16.

Background of the Dispute

Talks over pay have stalled lately.

Negotiations have failed since early 2015.

Workers claim pay has stayed flat.

Some have waited eleven long years.

Union leader Moss Ndiema led talks.

He says the regulator is arrogant.

KCAA has not signed the agreement.

This has caused a major standoff.

Impact on Aviation Operations

A strike would ground many flights.

It affects air traffic control services.

Ground handling may also stop working.

JKIA is a major regional hub.

Kenya Airways relies on these workers.

Thousands of passengers could face delays.

Cargo services would also see disruptions.

This hurts the local economy deeply.

Industry Response and Risks

The IATA monitors labor stability closely.

KCAA says they are still talking.

They want to avoid any delays.

The regulator promises safety for all.

They have set up contingency plans.

However, the union remains very firm.

They want a signed labor contract.

Without it, the strike will happen.

Travelers should check their flight status.

Updates will follow as talks continue.

Stay alert for more news soon.

Access up-to-date commercial aviation news and airline industry developments via flying.flights. Track policy changes, airspace rules, and global aviation governance in the Regulatory category at flying.flights/regulatory.

Ujjwal Sukhwani

Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani

Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.

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