Nairobi Airport Strike Halts Flights, Strands Thousands Amid Pay Dispute
A significant strike by airport workers has severely disrupted operations at Kenya's primary airport, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, leading to extensive flight delays and leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The industrial action, which commenced on Monday, 16 February 2026, stems from unresolved demands for improved pay and enhanced working conditions.
Travel Advisory Issued by Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways, the nation's flagship airline, promptly issued a travel advisory urging all customers to verify their flight status before proceeding to the airport. The airline highlighted that air traffic control operation delays were impacting both departures and arrivals, necessitating adjustments to flight schedules.
"Passengers are advised not to proceed to the airport without a confirmed flight status," the airline stated emphatically. This warning came as scenes of chaos unfolded outside the terminal, with numerous stranded passengers seen waiting for hours.
Passenger Experiences and Airport Contingencies
Reports from the ground indicate that thousands of travellers were affected, with some families revealing that relatives were trapped inside airport terminals. One anonymous passenger shared, "I have been waiting at the airport for six hours," expressing hope to eventually board their flight.
In response to the disruption, the Kenya Airports Authority implemented contingency measures aimed at minimizing the impact. The authority emphasized its commitment to constructive dialogue to resolve the ongoing strike swiftly.
Root Causes of the Industrial Action
The strike follows a breakdown in the implementation of a previously agreed-upon accord between the workers' union and airport authorities. Last week, airport employees issued a formal strike notice after negotiations over better labor conditions, increased pay, and improved benefits reached an impasse.
As a major transport hub for both regional and international travel, the airport's operational halt underscores the critical nature of the labor dispute and its widespread repercussions on travel logistics across East Africa.
