Operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) could face a serious disruption next week following a seven-day strike notice issued by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU). The union, which represents employees of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), has raised alarm over a range of unresolved grievances that could potentially bring airport activities to a standstill.
Ground Flight Safety (GFS) Transfer Sparks Outrage
At the heart of the dispute is the alleged transfer of Ground Flight Safety (GFS) operations from KAA to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) — a move that the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) claim was made without any consultation with workers or union representatives.
In a letter dated September 22, 2025, the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) Secretary General Moss Ndiema said:
Despite this matter being of grave concern to the Union, the management has neither consulted us nor shared with us any information regarding the matter
KAWU Secretary GeneralNdiema further alleged that the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has already recruited its own GFS staff, heightening workers’ fears of massive job losses and reduced revenue for KAA.
Job Confirmations and Labour Concerns
Beyond the GFS issue, the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has expressed deep frustration over:
- Failure to confirm over 500 employees from contract to permanent and pensionable terms despite years of service.
- Lack of substantive appointments for promoted staff.
- Non-payment of overtime allowances to workers at Wilson Airport for over six months.
- The dismantling of the Human Resources department, which the union says has crippled internal grievance resolution.
In addition, three Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) remain unresolved, adding fuel to the fire.
Employees Protest at KAA Headquarters
On Tuesday September 22, 2025 morning, agitated workers camped at KAA headquarters in Nairobi in a bid to meet with management — but their efforts were unsuccessful.
While KAA Board Chairperson Caleb Kositany denied claims that GFS staff had already been transferred to KCAA, he addressed the leadership gap in the HR department, stating that the contract for the former HR manager had expired, but recruitment for the position was underway. He confirmed that the former manager is eligible to reapply, having already served two terms.
What Is Ground Flight Safety (GFS)?
GFS operations are critical to airport and airline safety, involving tasks such as:
- Secure aircraft parking
- Safe loading and unloading of baggage and cargo
- Maintenance of ground equipment
- Emergency response coordination
- Ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and ground personnel during ground operations
Therefore any disruption in GFS could seriously affect airport safety standards and operational efficiency
Kenya Aviation Workers Union Issues Strike Ultimatum
KAWU has now called on all its members to prepare for a full-blown strike if KAA fails to respond to their demands within the seven-day notice period. A strike of this magnitude would likely paralyse operations at JKIA, affecting flights, cargo, and ground safety services.
