The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) and Kenya Airways have both confirmed that operations at all major airports in Kenya were severely disrupted on Wednesday morning, September 11, due to unexpected industrial action by aviation workers.
“Our enquiries with major airlines operating out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and other airports reveal that flights have been grounded due to the unavailability of essential ground services,” said Dr Joseph Kithitu, Chairman of KATA.
As a result, both domestic and international flights are expected to be cancelled or significantly delayed for an indeterminate period.
KATA strongly advises travel agents to promptly contact their clients and inform them of the ongoing situation before they proceed to the airport.
According to Reuters, the strike is believed to be in opposition to a bid by Indian company, Adani Group, to lease and renovate the airport. The court has already temporarily blocked this bid, but the strike has continued nonetheless.