Kenya's major airports handled 244 flights within nine hours on Tuesday as aviation operations returned to normal following the end of the industrial action by airport workers.
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) said all airports across its network were operating normally following the full resumption of air traffic control services.
“Both arriving and departing flights are being facilitated across our airport network,” KAA said in an update Tuesday, September 1.
The normalisation of operations came hours after the government brokered a return-to-work agreement between the Kenya Aviation Workers Union, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Kenya Airports Authority and Jambojet, ending a go-slow that had disrupted flights and left passengers stranded.
KAA said that between 3am and noon, the country's major airports facilitated a total of 244 flights, comprising both arrivals and departures.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) handled 55 flights during the period, while Wilson Airport recorded the highest number at 140.
Moi International Airport in Mombasa handled 23 flights, Kisumu International Airport 12 and Eldoret International Airport 14.
The figures offered the first indication of the scale of operations as the aviation sector worked to clear disruptions caused by the industrial action.
“KAA continues to work closely with all aviation stakeholders to support the progressive restoration of flight schedules and ensure the smooth movement of passengers and cargo,” the authority said.
The strike had disrupted airport operations and affected hundreds of passengers, with several flights delayed or cancelled as aviation workers downed tools over a range of grievances.
However, normal operations began returning after marathon overnight negotiations involving government officials, union leaders and aviation sector managers produced an agreement early Monday morning.
The parties agreed that agency fees held by KAA would be remitted to the Kenya Aviation Workers Union immediately.
The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) also committed to engage parties over outstanding Collective Bargaining Agreement issues involving KCAA.
The dispute over a recognition agreement between KAWU and Jambojet remains before the courts, with parties agreeing to respect the ongoing judicial process.
Following the deal, KAWU called off the industrial action and directed affected employees to immediately resume normal duties.
KAA said airport teams had been fully deployed to facilitate the recovery of flight schedules and ensure passengers and cargo moved safely and efficiently.
“The travelling public can continue to travel with confidence. Our airport teams are fully deployed to facilitate safe, secure and efficient operations and deliver a seamless experience for our customers,” the authority said.
Passengers whose travel plans were affected by the disruption were advised to remain in contact with their respective airlines for the latest flight information before heading to the airport.
“Those whose travel plans were affected are encouraged to remain in contact with their respective airlines for the latest flight information and to confirm their arrangements before proceeding to the airport,” KAA said.
The authority thanked passengers, airlines, cargo operators and the wider aviation community for their patience and cooperation during the disruption.
