Turbulence ahead: FlySafair crew threaten strike over pay
Low-cost carrier FlySafair faces a potential strike
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Low-cost carrier FlySafair faces a potential strike by its cabin crew after wage talks with the South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) reached a deadlock last week.
This follows SACCA’s previous rejection of the airline’s latest offer. The union has requested an extension to review it and provide feedback from its members. The offer includes a 5.7% salary increase, a 7.5% annual bonus, experience-based pay progression, and additional monthly allowances.
However, in a statement sent to IOL on Monday, the carrier said that it has secured enough crew to maintain its flight schedule and does not anticipate any cancellations.
The airline also confirmed it had issued notice of an employer-initiated work stoppage set to commence on Monday evening. The dispute has now entered the protected industrial action phase, meaning strike action is legally permitted.
"FlySafair has secured full crew coverage for its schedule from employees willing to work, and does not anticipate cancelling flights," the carrier said.
"As part of annual fleet planning, the airline is already operating a reduced schedule in November to accommodate pre-festive maintenance, and has additional crew on board in preparation for the peak period. This positions the airline strongly to protect operations".
The airline also confirmed that questions raised by SACCA regarding the interpretation of certain provisions of the Labour Relations Act will be referred to the Department of Labour for clarity.
“In a climate where most South Africans are receiving increases between 3% and 5%, we believe this offer is both exceptionally generous and responsible," Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer, said.
"We value our cabin crew enormously and have aimed to strikea balance between rewarding them and safeguarding the long-term sustainability of the airline. Ultimately, we must ensure FlySafair remains viable and affordable for the millions of travellers who rely on us.”
He added that FlySafair remains committed to a swift and fair resolution, stressing that the employer-initiated work stoppage is intended to encourage orderly negotiations rather than disrupt operations.
"If the union accepts the company’s offer before the effective time, the work stoppage will be withdrawn and the agreement will be concluded immediately".
IOL Business
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za