Normalcy returns to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) signed a return-to-work formula, ending a paralysis that grounded flights.

The standoff is over. After 24 hours of tension that saw passengers stranded and flights delayed, the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has officially called off its strike. The breakthrough came late Tuesday following marathon negotiations between the union, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), and the Ministry of Transport.

The strike, which threatened to cripple East Africa's busiest aviation hub, was triggered by grievances over Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) and the use of temporary contracts for permanent roles. The disruption had already caused massive delays, forcing airlines to reschedule and passengers to camp at terminals.

The Deal

KAWU Secretary General Moses Ndiema confirmed that a "satisfactory" return-to-work formula had been signed. "We have agreed on a path forward that respects the rights of our workers and ensures the sustainability of the aviation sector," Ndiema told the press.

• Key Parties: KAWU, KCAA, Ministry of Labour
• Outcome: Immediate resumption of duties
• Status: JKIA operations normalizing

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, who chaired the crisis meeting, assured the public that measures are in place to clear the backlog of flights immediately. "Our priority now is to get our visitors and business people moving again," he said.

As the first planes took off this afternoon, the relief was palpable. "The planes are back in the air," said one airport official. "But we must ensure we don't find ourselves here again."