Since yesterday, the strike by Kenyan airport workers belonging to the main national union, KAWU, has caused considerable disruption to departures and arrivals, mainly domestic flights, but also international flights during the day, both at the capital's airport, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), and at Moi International Airport in Mombasa.
Kenya's flag carrier, Kenya Airways, has been the most affected by the strike, as flight attendants have also been involved, while the chain of delays and cancellations has gradually caused delays and problems at both airports.
Thus, in addition to the cancellation of many international flights operated by Kenya Airways, such as the one to Johannesburg, many other foreign airlines began to delay or temporarily suspend departures.
Among these, as reported by readers who kindly sent us testimonials, screenshots of airport terminals, and press releases, was Ethiopian Airways, which left dozens of Italian travelers grounded for many hours last night.
But there are also many compatriots who were unable to depart from Malindi airport, then take a connecting flight in Nairobi with another airline and return home. Flights operated by domestic airlines Skyward and Safarilink were canceled, while Jambojet experienced delays.
Today, the situation could stabilize, at least for international arrivals, but it remains to be seen whether the many workers who did not take part in yesterday's union action to “see how it went” might join the protest.
We remind you that airport employees are asking for a review of their employment contract, which dates back to 2015 and has never been adjusted.