FlySafair faces pilot strike as negotiations reach stalemate

FlySafair could soon face turbulence on the ground as talks with its pilots have reached a dead end. The airline confirmed today (July 16) that its ongoing negotiations with the trade union Solidarity have stalled, triggering the formal process for a potential strike.

Picture used for illustration purposes/AirplaneNiner/Wikimedia Commons

With the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) now involved, a strike certificate has been issued. This document grants pilots the legal right to embark on protected industrial action after giving 72 hours’ notice, according to several reports.

The final strike rules are expected to be determined tomorrow (July 17), paving the way for a possible work stoppage later this week.

Solidarity, which represents around 200 of FlySafair’s pilots—roughly two-thirds of the airline’s flight crew—confirmed that its members had overwhelmingly rejected FlySafair’s final offer: a 5.7% salary increase along with other minor compensation adjustments.

The wage dispute has been brewing for three months. According to Solidarity Deputy General Secretary Helgard Cronje, the breakdown in talks reflects a broader dissatisfaction among pilots over working conditions and pay scales.

FlySafair has yet to announce contingency plans in the event of a strike. Passengers planning to travel in the coming days are advised to monitor updates closely.

Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.

TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

ALSO READ: Top 5 South African residents-only safari deals you need to know about