FlySafair Pilots Strike! Are Your Flights Grounded?!
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FlySafair Pilots Extend Strike Action Over Wage Dispute
Johannesburg - Passengers planning to fly with FlySafair may face disruptions as pilots extend their strike action over a protracted wage dispute. Originally planned as a one-day strike, the Solidarity union has now announced a two-week long boycott, escalating the industrial action against the low-cost airline.
The dispute stems from the rejection of a 5.7% wage increase by Solidarity members, who are demanding a more substantial raise. In response, FlySafair announced a seven-day lockout of its pilots, further inflaming the situation.
Solidarity spokesperson, Helgard Cronje, stated that the extended strike is a direct response to the airline's lockout. The union is also pushing for improvements to pilots' working conditions, specifically addressing frustrations related to unpredictable and disruptive work rosters.
Pilots Demand Better Working Conditions
Solidarity is advocating for a more stable and predictable roster system that allows pilots to better plan their personal lives. The union argues that the current system treats pilots like “robots,” with little regard for their well-being.
“It seems as though it makes them feel like robots, they just have to fall in. There's no protective measures,” said Cronje. “The company basically views the roster system as something that's in the operational discretion and they aren't willing to consider building in rules that protect the pilots.”
Negotiations are currently underway under the guidance of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA). Solidarity is seeking a 10.5% salary increase in the next financial year, followed by 4.5% and 4% increases in the subsequent two years. Approximately 84% of Solidarity members rejected FlySafair’s initial offer.
- Passengers are advised to check their flight status with FlySafair.
- Further updates will be provided as negotiations progress.
Solidarity has vowed to provide an update once the talks have concluded, leaving passengers in suspense about potential travel disruptions. The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial in determining whether the strike will continue to impact FlySafair's operations.