Kenya Aviation Strike Notice: JKIA Delays Possible from July 27
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) activated a seven-day strike notice effective 20 July 2026, covering workers across Kenya’s main aviation bodies. If no resolution is reached, industrial action could begin as early as 27 July and affect operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.
Who Is Covered by the Strike Notice
The notice covers employees at four organisations:
- Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) - the body responsible for air traffic control and safety oversight
- Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) - which operates JKIA and other Kenyan airports
- Kenya Airways - the national carrier
- Jambojet - Kenya Airways’ low-cost subsidiary
Disruption to KCAA personnel in particular could affect flight handling and air traffic control services, potentially grounding flights beyond those directly operated by Kenya Airways.
Which Airports Are Affected
JKIA in Nairobi is the primary concern, as it handles the vast majority of international traffic into Kenya. Moi International Airport in Mombasa could also be affected given KAA’s national remit.
What This Means for Travellers
The seven-day notice period runs until 27 July. Negotiations between KAWU and the relevant authorities are ongoing, and strikes of this kind are sometimes resolved before action begins.
However, if you are flying into or out of Kenya around or after 27 July, we recommend:
- Contacting your airline to ask about their contingency plans and rebooking policies
- Checking your travel insurance - industrial action coverage varies; confirm your policy terms
- Monitoring KAWU and Kenya Airways communications for updates before you travel
For up-to-date travel advice, see our practical Kenya guide and check the FCDO or State Department Kenya advisories. If your trip involves a wildlife safari or national park booking, speak to your tour operator about their own disruption policies.