The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has issued a seven-day strike ultimatum to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), as announced by Union Secretary General Moses Ndiema. The potential strike, which could disrupt air transport operations, is set to begin on March 25, 2026, following claims that KCAA has violated terms of a return-to-work agreement signed on February 17, 2026. This agreement had previously ended a labor dispute that resulted in significant disruptions at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and other facilities.

In his comments during a press briefing, Ndiema outlined several specific grievances against KCAA, asserting that the authority has not adhered to essential elements of their agreement. These grievances include the failure to enforce worker unionization for certain grades of employees, non-compliance with court orders, and a lack of commitment from management to prevent discrimination and victimization of workers. The union views these issues as fundamental violations of workers’ rights and a breach of trust.

The impending strike underscores the ongoing tensions between aviation workers and management at KCAA and reflects broader issues within the labor relations framework in Kenya's aviation sector. If the union proceeds with the strike, it could severely impact air travel and logistics in the country, further straining an industry already navigating challenges in operations and service delivery. It remains to be seen how the KCAA will respond in the coming days as the deadline approaches, as negotiations and dialogue may offer a path to avert a labor stoppage that could disrupt the services for thousands of travelers.