Kenya restores flight operations at JKIA as aviation strike recovery efforts clear passenger backlogs and stabilise schedules across affected airports

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has announced that structured recovery efforts are underway to restore normal flight operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) following a go-slow by aviation workers.

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The regulator confirmed the development in Nairobi on Monday, 19 February 2026, assuring passengers that flight backlogs are being addressed in a prioritised and systematic manner.

KCAA emphasised that safety standards remain uncompromised, with all aircraft movements managed according to established protocols.

Passengers have been advised to confirm flight details directly with airlines before travelling to airports to avoid disruption.

The industrial action, led by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), affected multiple airports nationwide, including Kisumu International Airport, leaving passengers stranded and causing financial losses for transport operators dependent on airport traffic.

Union officials cited unresolved grievances such as delayed salaries, poor working conditions, and sector restructuring as the reason for the go-slow.

Kenya Airways activated contingency measures, urging travellers to monitor flight statuses via its website, mobile app, and official communication channels.

The airline encouraged early arrivals at airports and flexibility with schedules as authorities worked to mitigate delays and maintain safety.

KCAA has pledged ongoing collaboration with aviation stakeholders to ensure orderly restoration of services across all affected airports.

Officials said that normal operations are expected to resume as soon as possible, with recovery measures prioritising passenger convenience and operational stability.

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Passengers are advised to continue monitoring official airline and regulatory updates until full normalcy is restored.