FlySafair flights running as normal despite pilot strike action

FlySafair has confirmed that all flights on today’s schedule are departing as planned, despite ongoing industrial action by a segment of its pilot workforce. The airline, which has proactively adjusted its schedule, assures customers that disruptions have been minimal so far.

FlySafair implemented a reduced flight schedule last week, allowing it to manage the impact of the ongoing strike effectively. In a show of transparency, the airline communicated these changes to all affected customers through SMS and email notifications, utilising the contact details provided at the time of booking, ensuring that passengers were well-informed ahead of their journeys.

While two flights were cancelled yesterday—the 4:45pm departure from Cape Town to Lanseria and the 7:30pm return flight from Lanseria to Cape Town—FlySafair worked swiftly to handle the situation. Passengers on these flights were contacted and given options to manage their travel according to their preferences.

As of this morning, all other scheduled flights have been fully crewed and are operating normally. This operational stability comes as a relief amidst reports of strike-related tensions, prompting concerns among travellers who rely on FlySafair for their journeys.

In a bid to resolve the current situation, FlySafair is scheduled to meet with the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) on Wednesday.

The airline has emphasised that claims suggesting their refusal to engage with the CCMA process are incorrect. FlySafair has maintained active participation in discussions throughout this process, as legally required to secure a protected strike certificate, and continues to engage with the CCMA in good faith.

Passengers seeking the status of their flights can easily access the “Manage My Booking” section on the FlySafair website. Additionally, the airline encourages travellers to check the Travel Updates page for the most recent information, while teams at airports remain on standby to assist with re-bookings, refunds, and alternative arrangements.

“We know that travel disruptions can be incredibly stressful, especially when plans are made well in advance,” said Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair.

“We’re truly sorry for the inconvenience this has caused and want to reassure our customers that we are doing everything in our power to restore full operations as quickly as possible. Our teams are working around the clock to support affected customers, and we remain fully committed to finding a fair and sustainable resolution.”

IOL