The South African Airways Pilots Association (SAAPA) has issued a notice to the national flag carrier that its members intend on embarking on strike action from today, 5 December 2024.
This follows failed wage negotiations that started back in May 2024.
SAAPA’s initial demand was for a 30% increase in pilot salaries, which was subsequently reduced to 15.7% plus associated benefits.
However, South African Airways (SAA) was only prepared to offer an 8.46% pay hike.
Interim Chief Executive Officer Professor John Lamola said that while SAA recently reported a modest profit, the airline may not by any means claim to be in a financially robust position, and it can no longer expect shareholder contributions or recapitalisation from the fiscus.
“SAA’s final wage offer, made to SAAPA on 24 September 2024, is significantly higher than the general salary increases in South Africa in 2024, is benchmarked against international pilot salary adjustments, and is in line with what was granted to the rest of SAA staff members in June 2024,” said Lamola.
“The offer to the pilots reflects the airline’s commitment to the well-being of its employees within the context of the airline’s history, current turnaround programme, and future financial sustainability.”
The airline is implementing contingency measures to ensure that disruption to its services will be as minimal as possible.
“SAA has only recently regained its operational viability after emerging from business rescue in 2021,” said Lamola.
“In order not to disrupt this momentum, we are committed to ongoing negotiations with SAAPA and to do everything possible to reach a fair settlement that is mutually beneficial to both the pilots and the company.”
December flight disruptions
Major travel agent Flight Centre has issued a warning to holidaymakers intending to use SAA’s services in the coming days.
It noted that the strike may lead to potential disruptions of SAA flights during the peak December travel season, but that partner airline operations, including codeshare flights and Star Alliance partner services, will continue to operate as scheduled.
The strike will affect all SAA-operated flights on major domestic and regional routes including:
- Johannesburg (JNB) to/from Cape Town (CPT)
- Johannesburg (JNB) to/from Durban (DUR)
- Johannesburg (JNB) to/from Port Elizabeth (PLZ)
- Johannesburg (JNB) to/from Windhoek (WDH)
- Johannesburg (JNB) to/from Mauritius (MRU)
“Flight Centre is closely monitoring the situation and advising travellers who may be affected to take proactive steps to manage their travel plans,” said the company.
“Travellers booked on SAA flights should contact their travel provider or airline directly for updates, rebooking options, or alternative arrangements.”
Airports are expected to be busier than usual as passengers seek alternatives. Travellers are advised to arrive earlier than usual and remain flexible with their plans.
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