FlySafair pilots are expected to go on strike over a wage dispute, leading to several rescheduled flights for next week.
Solidarity recently announced that its members would likely go on strike due to a wage dispute over most members rejecting a 5.7% wage increase and additional compensation measures.
As a result, select flights will be rescheduled over the next two weeks, from Tuesday, 22 July to Monday, 28 July.
FlySafair and Solidarity are set to finalise the strike rules today under the guidance of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
In terms of how this situation came to be, Solidarity also indicated that the rejection of the wage increase wasn’t simply due to an issue with the content of the offer but also a consequence of the tense relationship between the airline’s management and pilots.
This includes the airline’s policy on leave and days off, which pilots have stated do not meet their minimum expectations and are actively detrimental to their quality of life.
Additionally, FlySafair pilots are unhappy with a new rostering system that they believe is disruptive and inflexible.
Should this matter remain unresolved, it could trigger another strike action by the union.
“The poor relationship between management and pilots has now led to the public bearing the consequences of unresolved workplace conflict,” said Solidarity.
Flight rescheduling
Kirby Gordon, FlySafair’s Chief Marketing Officer, has stated that the changes will only impact select flights between 22 and 28 July.
He and the airline also stressed that it is proactively making schedule changes as a precaution against the strikes.
The airline will contact customers affected by the strike using the contact information supplied from the booking.
FlySafair also indicated it would allow customers to make alternative flight bookings for impacted customers at no extra cost.
“FlySafair will continue efforts to minimise inconvenience and maintain safe, reliable services during this period. The airline thanks customers for their patience and understanding,” said Gordon.
He also noted that they are currently uncertain about when a strike will take place and how long it may last, so the airline is taking pre-emptive steps to minimise the disruption to its customers.
The airline will, by law, get 72 hours’ notice from the union before the strike begins as well, allowing it to make further adjustments as needed.
FlySafair has stated that it supports and respects the rights of its pilots and remains committed to reaching a constructive solution to the current situation.
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