Hard truths. Bold Insights. Real talk.
The industrial action by KAWU began after a seven day strike notice issued on February 9, 2026 to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority expired. In a letter addressed to KCAA Director General Emile N. Arao, the union warned that unionisable employees would down their tools if long standing concerns were not addressed.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, KALPA reaffirmed that “aviation safety is non-negotiable,” emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to Flight Duty Period (FDP) limitations and mandatory rest requirements.
In a statement on Monday, KAA’s Acting Managing Director and CEO, Dr Mohamud Gedi, said contingency plans had been activated.
Kenya Civil Aviation Authority says flights and aviation services remain normal despite a seven-day strike notice by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union, as talks continue to resolve labour disputes.
At the centre of the dispute is the failure to negotiate and conclude a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) since 2015. KAWU said the last CBA lapsed more than a decade ago and that subsequent negotiations have stalled due to management’s alleged refusal to engage.
KCAA said it will continue to work with KAWU and other stakeholders to find a mutually acceptable solution while maintaining safety and operational efficiency in Kenya’s airspace.
KAA’s Acting Managing Director, Mohamud Gedi, expressed gratitude to the KAA Board of Directors, led by Chairman Caleb Kositany, as well as government ministries for facilitating the talks.
The court issued the directive on Monday morning after KAA moved to court seeking orders to stop the strike. Both the union and the management appeared before the Ministry at 11 am for the session, which continued until 7:45 pm before it was adjourned. The talks are expected to resume on Tuesday morning.
In a statement seen by Radio Generation, KCAA said all statutory functions under the Civil Aviation Act remain unaffected.
The talks followed a seven-day industrial action notice issued by the union, demanding urgent action on workers’ grievances.
KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema accused the KAA Board of Directors of incompetence, poor governance, and making decisions that undermine the stability of the state corporation.