Kenya’s aviation sector has returned to normal operations following a high-level agreement that ended disruptions affecting operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) announced on September 1, 2026, that aviation sector stakeholders had reached an agreement following consultations and negotiations involving government officials, aviation agencies and workers’ representatives.
The resolution came after the Kenyan government acknowledged the serious disruption at JKIA, which had affected passengers, airlines, businesses and the country’s international connectivity.
The negotiations were chaired by Cabinet Secretary for Transport Davis Chirchir, with the participation of Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Alfred Mutua, the Principal Secretaries responsible for Aviation and Aerospace Development and Labour, and the chief executives of KCAA, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and Jambojet.
Representatives of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) and the Central Organization of Trade Unions–Kenya (COTU-K) also took part in the discussions. Key areas addressed included the Collective Bargaining Agreement between KCAA and KAWU, the Recognition Agreement between KAWU and Jambojet, and the non-victimisation of employees arising from the industrial action.
The government had earlier apologised to passengers and other affected stakeholders over the disruption, acknowledging the significant impact on travel and Kenya’s international connectivity. It stressed that its immediate priority was the safe and orderly restoration of normal airport operations while seeking a sustainable resolution to the issues in dispute.
Following the agreement, KCAA confirmed that the resolution took immediate effect and normal operations resumed. The regulator thanked the negotiating parties for their commitment and goodwill in reaching an amicable settlement, while also expressing appreciation to passengers, airlines and other aviation stakeholders for their patience and understanding. The Kenyan government also described JKIA as a critical national gateway and an important hub for trade, tourism, investment, diplomacy and regional connectivity, underscoring the wider economic importance of maintaining uninterrupted airport operations. The agreement is expected to restore stability across Kenya’s aviation sector and provide relief for passengers and airlines affected by the disruption.
