Deadlock looms as FlySafair pilots prepare for strike after failed wage negotiations

The escalation of tensions between FlySafair and its pilots, means that commuters across South Africa may soon face significant travel disruptions. With nearly 90% of FlySafair pilots voting in favour of a strike, the low-cost airline has announced it will lock out its flight crew as negotiations over wage demands reach a standstill.

The situation has drawn the attention of trade union Solidarity, which is calling for FlySafair to return to the negotiating table before the pilots confront a lockout starting Monday. The airline’s decision to lock out its pilots for up to two weeks—originally set for seven days but potentially extendable for another week—comes in response to a strike notice that Solidarity expressed following the pilot vote.

Helgard Cronjé, a spokesperson for Solidarity, has expressed concerns about FlySafair’s approach, labelling the lockout as reckless towards the public.

“The pilots are seeking to rectify their salaries, which were slashed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and want assurances about their employment conditions, including rest and family time,” he emphasised.

In a move to mitigate public discomfort, FlySafair co-founder Kirby Gordon confirmed that the airline has issued a strike certificate acknowledging the seriousness of the situation.

“We recognise the challenges this poses to our passengers,” Gordon said. “We have proactively adjusted our operational schedules to minimise disruptions, and customers affected by these changes have already been informed through the contact details provided at the time of booking.”

Despite the looming disruptions, FlySafair has reiterated its commitment to balancing the rights of its employees with the long-term sustainability of the airline. The company has assured travellers that they can review their flight details or change their bookings without charge through the "Manage Booking" section on the FlySafair website.

In the background, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) has offered to mediate the dispute further, a proposal that Solidarity has welcomed. However, FlySafair has thus far declined to engage in this additional mediation.

As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the two parties to see if a resolution can be found before Monday, or whether South African travellers will be forced to face the fallout of this ongoing deadlock.

DAILY NEWS