Pilots raise safety concerns as aviation strike disrupts JKIA operations

The Kenya Airline Pilots Association (KALPA) raised safety concerns amid ongoing industrial action by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), which includes Air Traffic Control (ATC) personnel, warning that operational pressures must not compromise flight safety.

The strike has triggered significant disruptions at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and across Kenya’s airspace, resulting in flight delays, diversions, and cancellations that have inconvenienced thousands of passengers.

In a statement issued Tuesday, KALPA Secretary General and CEO Captain Murithi Nyagah emphasized that aviation safety remains non-negotiable despite the ongoing labour dispute.

“As professional aviators, our foremost responsibility is the safety of the flying public, crew, and aircraft,” Nyagah said. “We are concerned that the current disruptions may adversely affect crew scheduling and rest, thereby increasing fatigue risk.”

He stressed the importance of strict compliance with established Flight Duty Period (FDP) limitations and mandatory rest requirements, noting that such safeguards are designed to mitigate fatigue and ensure operations remain within internationally accepted safety standards.

“Under no circumstances should operational pressures be allowed to compromise these limits,” he added.

The pilots’ association acknowledged the challenges facing the aviation sector but called for constructive and good-faith dialogue to resolve outstanding labour issues.

According to KALPA, meaningful engagement among all stakeholders is critical to achieving sustainable solutions and preventing further disruption to the industry and the travelling public.

The industrial action has compounded pressure on airlines operating through JKIA, Kenya’s busiest airport and a key regional hub, with ripple effects felt across domestic and international routes.

KALPA reiterated its commitment to professionalism, safety, and constructive industrial engagement, expressing hope for a swift resolution that restores stability to the country’s aviation sector.

Officials have been holding crisis meetings to solve the stalemate. Many passengers have been affected by the strike.