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There is an increasing tendency to conflate the roles of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and Kenya Airways (KQ), despite their distinct functions within the aviation sector.
The Kenya Airports Authority is a state corporation responsible for the development, management and maintenance of airports across Kenya. It oversees more than 32 airports, in addition to numerous aerodromes and airstrips, ensuring the safety, security and efficiency of airport operations nationwide.
Kenya Airways, on the other hand, is Kenya’s national flag carrier. It operates flights to over 50 destinations globally – including 44 within Africa – and maintains codeshare agreements with approximately 19 international airlines.
As a commercial airline, KQ utilizes KAA-managed facilities for many of its domestic and international flights including routes between Nairobi and cities such as Mombasa, Kisumu and Eldoret. Although KAA and KQ function as independent entities, their operations are interdependent. In essence, KAA serves as landlord while Kenya Airways is one of its key tenant’s.
Kenya Airways makes Sh5.4 billion full year net profit; highest in its history
Recently, the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) issued a seven-day strike notice, calling for the resignation of the KAA board. According to the union, this action stems from unresolved labour disputes and tensions following the cancellation of a proposed airport leasing agreement.
There has been some confusion between the roles of KAA and KQ with certain commentators incorrectly suggesting that the aborted leasing arrangement was intended to recapitalize the national carrier. This assertion is inaccurate.
The current labour dispute is exclusively between KAWU and KAA. Kenya Airways is not involved. None of KQ’s unionized employees have issued a strike notice, nor is the airline facing any unresolved labour disputes under the framework of its Collective Bargaining Agreements. Furthermore, there have been no demands for the resignation of any of the KQ board members.
This is strictly a matter concerning KAWU and KAA, and it is widely hoped that a resolution will be reached promptly.
