Kenya Airways confirms full flight schedule restored and backlogs cleared across its network.
Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya Airways is pleased to confirm that its operations have returned to normal, with the full flight schedule restored and backlogs cleared across its network. Most customers affected by the recent disruption have now reached their final destinations, while the airline’s teams continue to assist those requiring support.
Clarification on Industrial Action
Kenya Airways wishes to clarify an important point regarding the three-day industrial action that affected aviation operations across Kenya.
Kenya Airways employees were not participating in the industrial action. Our operational teams remained on duty throughout the disruption, working under exceptionally challenging circumstances to support customers and maintain operations as far as possible.
The airline expressed pride in the professionalism, resilience, and commitment demonstrated by its people.
Resolution of the Industrial Action
The industrial action was formally resolved on Tuesday, 1st September 2026, following the signing of a Return-to-Work Agreement between:
| Parties Involved |
|---|
| Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) |
| Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) |
| Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) |
| The Government of Kenya |
Impact on Kenya Airways Operations
As the largest airline operator at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) , Kenya Airways was significantly affected by the disruption.
Operational Impact (Over 3 Days)
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Flights Cancelled | 63 |
| Flight Delays | More than 160 |
| Average Delay | Exceeding 6 hours |
| Cargo Not Uplifted | More than 370 tonnes of fresh produce and meat |
Financial Impact
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Lost Revenue & Additional Costs | More than USD 7 Million |
These costs included customer accommodation, meals, transportation, rebooking, and related travel requirements.
Acknowledging the Impact on Customers
“While these figures demonstrate the scale of the operational and commercial impact on Kenya Airways, we recognise that the greatest impact was felt by our customers. Many experienced disrupted travel plans, additional expenses and, in some cases, missed personal, business and commercial opportunities.”
Strengthening Industry Coordination
The disruption has reinforced the importance of strong coordination across Kenya’s aviation ecosystem. Airlines, airports, regulators, and other aviation service providers are interconnected, and effective collaboration between all stakeholders is essential to delivering a safe, reliable, and seamless customer experience.
Kenya Airways remains committed to working constructively with all industry stakeholders to strengthen this coordination and build greater resilience across the aviation system.
Apology to Customers
“We sincerely apologise to every customer whose journey was affected. While the disruption was outside Kenya Airways’ control, we recognise that our customers were affected, and we deeply regret the inconvenience and frustration caused.”
Looking Ahead
With operations now fully restored, Kenya Airways’ focus is firmly on the future: serving customers, reconnecting people and businesses, and moving passengers and cargo safely and reliably across the network.
Flight Information & Customer Support
| Channel | Details |
|---|---|
| Flight Status | Check on the Kenya Airways website |
| Manage Booking | Update contact details via website or KQ Mobile App |
| Customer Excellence Centre | +254 711 024 747 (24 hours) |
| +254 705 474 747 |
“Thank you for your patience, understanding and continued trust in Kenya Airways.”
Signed:
Kiprono Kittony, EBS
Chairman, Board of Directors
Kenya Airways
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