The Kenya Airline Pilots Association (KALPA) has raised an alarm over potential safety risks as the ongoing strike by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), including air traffic controllers, continues to disrupt operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and across Kenya’s airspace.
The industrial action has caused flight delays, diversions, and cancellations, inconveniencing thousands of passengers and putting pressure on airlines struggling to maintain schedules.
In a statement released on Tuesday, KALPA’s General Secretary and CEO, Captain Murithi Nyagah, said the association is deeply concerned about the impact on flight crew scheduling and rest periods.
“Our foremost responsibility is the safety of the flying public, crew, and aircraft. Aviation safety is non-negotiable,” Captain Nyagah said.
Adding;
“The ongoing disruptions may increase fatigue risk if crew schedules are pushed beyond regulatory limits. Under no circumstances should operational pressures compromise these safeguards.”
The pilots’ association emphasised that strict adherence to Flight Duty Period (FDP) limitations and mandatory rest requirements is crucial.
These rules are designed to ensure pilots are alert and operations remain within internationally accepted safety standards.
KALPA also called on all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the dispute.
“Labour matters are best resolved through good-faith discussions. Approaches that frustrate negotiations only lead to stalemates, further disruption, and economic losses to the aviation sector,” Captain Nyagah said.
Industry analysts say the strike is already affecting airlines’ bottom lines, with some carriers reporting tens of millions of shillings in losses due to flight cancellations and disrupted schedules. The knock-on effect is also hitting tourism, cargo transport, and business travel.
“This is not just a matter of inconvenience; the financial impact is real. Every day the strike continues, it adds pressure on airlines, employees, and the wider economy,” said an aviation sector analyst who requested anonymity.
KALPA’s statement comes amid growing concerns from passengers over delayed and cancelled flights, with some voicing frustration over the lack of clear communication from the airport and airlines.
The pilots’ association reaffirmd its commitment to professionalism, safety, and collaborative engagement to ensure a stable and thriving aviation industry in Kenya.
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