Charles Gitonga
Monday November 7, 2022
Kenya's national carrier says it cancelled 56 flights over the weekend
Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya Airways, has threatened to start disciplinary action against its pilots whose strike has entered its third day.
The airline maintains that the strike is unlawful, a position that has been backed by government officials who say the actions of the 400 pilots amount to economic sabotage.
The national carrier says it cancelled 56 flights over the weekend, affecting some 12,000 passengers.
Export and importation of cargo such as fresh produce and pharmaceutical products has also been affected.
The airline now warns that the window for negotiation is closing, and the pilots involved in the strike could face dismissal or legal proceedings.
The labour ministry on Sunday said the airline was at liberty to take necessary lawful measures against its pilots.
The government, which is the biggest shareholder at Kenya Airways, said it had invested nearly $500m (£442m) to keep the carrier afloat in the last three years.
The pilots say the strike is still in full force until their demands are met.
The want the airline to reinstate contributions to their retirement fund, as well as top managers including the CEO to be fired with immediate effect among other grievances.
The parties are due to appear in court on Tuesday after the airline acquired an injunction days to the strike.