Flight operations across Kenya have returned to normal after aviation workers called off a go-slow that had disrupted services at major airports, causing delays and cancellations and affecting thousands of passengers.
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) said on Tuesday, September 1, that all airports under its network were operating normally following the full resumption of Air Traffic Control services.
The development followed a return-to-work agreement between the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), the government and other stakeholders in the aviation sector.
In a statement, KAA confirmed that both arriving and departing flights were being facilitated across its airport network as operations gradually returned to normal.
“Kenya Airports Authority PLC (KAA) wishes to inform the public that all our airports are operating normally, following the full resumption of Air Traffic Control services,” the authority stated.
244 Flights Handled in Nine Hours
KAA reported that its major airports facilitated 244 flights between 3:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon on Tuesday, comprising both arrivals and departures.
Wilson Airport recorded the highest number of movements, handling 140 flights during the period. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) recorded 55 flights, while Moi International Airport handled 23. Eldoret International Airport recorded 14 flights, with Kisumu International Airport handling 12.
The figures offered an indication of the progressive restoration of aviation services following the disruption.
KAA said it was continuing to work with airlines and other aviation stakeholders to restore flight schedules and facilitate the movement of passengers and cargo.
Workers’ Go-Slow Disrupted Flights
The disruption began after members of KAWU went on a go-slow on Sunday, August 30, affecting operations at several major airports. The industrial action resulted in flight delays and cancellations, disrupting the travel plans of thousands of passengers.
The workers’ grievances included unresolved collective bargaining agreements and other employment-related concerns. Among the issues raised were salary concerns, agency fees held by KAA and a dispute over union recognition.
KAWU called off the go-slow on Tuesday morning after reaching a return-to-work agreement with the government and aviation sector stakeholders.
Workers were directed to resume duty, paving the way for the restoration of air traffic control services and the resumption of normal airport operations.
The agreement also allowed airlines and airport operators to begin addressing the disruption caused by the industrial action.
Passengers Asked to Confirm Flights
Despite the restoration of normal airport operations, KAA cautioned passengers whose travel plans had been affected to confirm their flight arrangements before travelling to the airport.
The authority said airlines remained the best source of information on revised schedules as carriers worked to restore services and address any disruptions.
“Those whose travel plans were affected are encouraged to remain in contact with their respective airlines for the latest flight information and to confirm their arrangements before proceeding to the airport,” KAA stated.
The authority assured travellers that its teams had been fully deployed to facilitate safe, secure and efficient airport operations.
KAA also thanked passengers, airlines, cargo operators and other members of the aviation community for their patience, understanding and cooperation during the disruption.
The latest development marks a significant step towards restoring normal air travel after the industrial action affected operations at some of the country’s busiest aviation facilities.
Passengers travelling on Tuesday and in the coming days have consequently been advised to maintain communication with their airlines, particularly if their original flights were delayed, cancelled or rescheduled during the disruption.
