Aviation Workers Issue Seven-Day Strike Notice Over Pay, NYS Deployment and Labour Disputes

 By Christopher mbiti 

Nairobi Kenya| 23rd July 2026

Aviation workers have issued a seven-day strike notice, accusing management at key aviation agencies of failing to address long-standing labour grievances, including delayed collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), unfair human resource policies, and the deployment of National Youth Service (NYS) officers at airports.

The union said employees at the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) have gone 11 years without a negotiated CBA, despite repeated demands. It accused management of delaying negotiations, leaving many workers to retire—or even die—without benefiting from improved employment terms.

The workers also opposed the deployment of NYS officers at airport facilities, particularly at fire and rescue stations, arguing that the move intimidates staff and threatens the job security of existing employees. The union claimed plans to deploy 720 more NYS officers across airports could gradually replace civilian workers in key operational roles.

Further, the union alleged that KAA is paying KSh45,000 per NYS officer each month, while the officers reportedly receive only KSh5,000, raising questions about the fate of the remaining funds. It called for investigations into what it described as a possible scandal.

The union also criticized the state of Wilson Airport, describing it as poorly managed and insecure. It urged KAA to implement government directives requiring the establishment of a central passenger screening point and a proper terminal to enhance safety and accountability.

At Kenya Airways (KQ), the union raised concerns over alleged abuse of staff transfers, unpaid crew allowances, and delayed payments for technical staff. It further accused some managers of using transfers to intimidate employees and, in some cases, solicit sexual favours, demanding disciplinary action against those responsible.

Meanwhile, the union condemned Jambojet for allegedly harassing employees, unfairly dismissing staff, and denying workers their constitutional right to join a trade union. It insisted that Jambojet employees are entitled to freedom of association and union representation like all other Kenyan workers.

The union warned that unless the grievances are addressed within the notice period, workers from KCAA, KAA, Kenya Airways and Jambojet will proceed with a nationwide strike beginning this weekend or early next week.

Ends.