Operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)in Nairobi were disrupted on Monday February 16, 2026, affecting both departing and arriving flights, following a labor dispute between Kenya Aviation Workers Union and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority.

Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and various airlines including Kenya Airways issued a statement warning passengers of air traffic control delays directly impacting flight schedules.

“The Kenya Airport Authority inform the public of delays affecting departing flights at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport due to the ongoing labour dispute between the Kenya Aviation Workers Union and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority,” KAA said in a statement.

KAA further announced that contingency plans have been activated and urged passengers to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight updates.

Kenya Airways in a notice to its passengers, said that the industrial action by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) affected the departing flights at the JKIA. The national carrier advised passengers to expect schedule adjustments and delays.

“We are currently experiencing air traffic control operational delays at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), affecting certain departures and arrivals. Passengers are advised to expect possible schedule adjustments, including delays,” read a statement from the airline.

The airline also urged customers to check their flight status before travelling to the airport, monitor official Kenya Airways communication channels for updates or explore rebooking options.

Kenya Airport Workers Union (KAWU) announced the industrial action on February 9 after union negotiations with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority failed to yield results within a seven-day deadline that ends today.

The union is advocating for key reforms, including the full implementation of Collective Bargaining Agreements, a review of long-standing salaries, and the inclusion of contract staff in pensionable employment terms.