Nairobi:  Flight operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi were disrupted after aviation workers launched a strike over pay, working conditions and unresolved labour agreements. The industrial action caused delays and cancellations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded at one of East Africa’s busiest travel hubs.

The strike began on Monday after unions said authorities had failed to implement parts of a collective bargaining agreement and address long standing concerns about wages and job protections. Workers also raised concerns about staffing levels and conditions they say affect safety and efficiency at the airport.

Passengers faced long waits inside crowded terminals while others were unable to enter the airport. Many travelers reported confusion and lack of clear information as flights were delayed or rescheduled. Some foreign passengers also encountered visa and accommodation difficulties after missing connections.

Kenya Airways issued travel advisories warning customers to check flight status before heading to the airport, while the Kenya Airports Authority said it had activated contingency measures to manage the disruption. Officials said they remain open to dialogue with union leaders in order to restore normal operations.

The airport is a major aviation hub linking Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia, and disruptions quickly affected regional travel and cargo movement across East Africa. Travelers heading to neighbouring countries experienced missed connections and delays.

Union representatives had issued a strike notice earlier, and efforts to block the action through legal channels were unsuccessful. Negotiations between the government and labour leaders are expected as pressure grows to resolve the dispute.

Flights may continue to face delays until an agreement is reached and full operations resume.