KALPA Statement on Flight Disruptions at JKIA Due to Strike

The Kenya Airline Pilots Association (KALPA) takes note of the ongoing industrial action by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU). including Air Traffic Control (ATC) personnel, which has resulted in significant operational disruptions at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and across the country's airspace. The resultant flight delays, diversions, and cancellations have understandably caused inconvenience to passengers and stakeholders within the aviation sector.

As professional aviators, our foremost responsibility is the safety of the flying public, crew, and aircraft. Aviation safety is non-negotiable. We are concerned that the ongoing disruptions may adversely affect crew scheduling and rest, thereby increasing fatigue risk.

In this context, strict adherence to established Flight Duty Period (FDP) limitations and mandatory rest requirements is essential These regulatory safeguards exist to mitigate fatigue and ensure that flight operations are conducted within internationally accepted safety parameters. Under no circumstances should operational pressures be allowed to compromise these limits.

While we acknowledge the challenges currently facing the sector, we reiterate that labour matters are best resolved through constructive, good-faith dialogue. Meaningful engagement among all parties is essential to address outstanding issues and achieve mutually beneficial and sustainable solutions. Approaches that frustrate negotiations or entrench positions only lead to avoidable stalemates and further disruption to the industry and the travelling public.

KALPA remains committed to professionalism, safety, and constructive industrial engagement in pursuit of a stable, resilient and thriving aviation sector in Kenya.

Captain Murithi Nyagah
General Secretary & CEO - KALPA