Flights into and out of Kenya’s main airport are being delayed as a result of a planned strike by workers in the aviation industry, the country’s national airline and airports authority has revealed.
There has been a four-hour delay in departing aircraft from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, one of Africa’s largest transportation hubs.
BBC revealed that several travellers have been seated in airplanes for long stretches of time while pilots wait for the all-clear to depart. Kenya Airways reported that there was “air traffic control operational delays affecting select departures and arrivals” and that it was collaborating with the authorities to minimize disruptions.
“Passengers are advised to expect possible schedule adjustments, including delays,” the airline stated.
The interruptions come after the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) threatened to go on strike a week ago due to inadequate wages and working conditions.
The strike began at 6:00 local time (03:00 GMT), affecting both travellers and airlines nationwide, KAWU Secretary-General Moss Ndiema told the local Daily Nation news website. A significant backlog exists. He was cited as adding, “Aeroplanes are barely leaving the airports.”
The airport’s emergency procedures have been initiated, according to the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), which also advised travellers to check with their airlines for any updates.
The employees in the aviation industry accuse the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) of discrimination, postponing union remittances, and obstructing wage discussions.
KCAA filed a lawsuit last week to get the strike stopped. The case was put on hold by a labour court judge until next week, when more instructions are expected.