Kenya Airways flights disrupted as technicians down tools

Kenya Airways has announced major flight delays following a strike by members of its technical department.

The airline technicians have downed their tools from five am citing poor pay and an obsolete operational structure.

“We would like to advise our guests that we are experiencing some delays due to a number of our technicians not showing up for work. This has caused inconveniences to our guests and is highly regretted.  We are working to reduce these disruptions,” Kenya Airways said in a statement.

According to Kenya Airways at least nine flights have been delayed.

Affected flights so far include KQ650/480/782/576//400/572/434/350/520 out of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

The airline has requested passengers to call the airline to check on the status of their flights.

The management is said to be working to minimize the disruptions caused.

“Our technical team is a vital part of our business and we are working together to resolve any outstanding issues,” the airline said.

Kenya Airways Group Managing Director Mbuvi Ngunze via a letter dated December 2 termed the industrial action illegal, urging employees in the technical department to allow time for consultations.

“As communicated previously in town halls and through the technical director, management is in the process of addressing pertinent issues affecting our staff in the department and any illegal action at this stage will not only interrupt the process, but undermine the progress so far made in addressing the issues,” Mr Ngunze said.

More to follow…..