FlySafair announces flight schedule changes due to potential pilot strike
South African domestic airline FlySafair has announced schedule changes as a precautionary measure in light of "ongoing labour discussions".
The airline said in a statement on its website that the changes will affect selected flights departing between July 22 and 28.
The announcement comes after IOL reported on Wednesday that talks between trade union Solidarity and FlySafair regarding salary negotiations for pilots had reached an impasse.
In their statement, the airline said affected customers would be notified of the changes.
"Customers whose flight times have been affected will be contacted using the contact details provided at the time of booking. Customers are also encouraged to check the status of their bookings or make changes at no additional cost to more convenient alternative flights via the Manage Booking portal on the FlySafair website."
The airline said it will continue efforts to minimise inconvenience and maintain safe, reliable services during this period.
"The airline thanks customers for their patience and understanding."
In their statement, union Solidarity said FlySafair's final offer – a 5,7% salary increase along with some additional adjustments to compensation – was rejected by the vast majority of its members.
Solidarity deputy general secretary Helgard Cronje said the rejection was not only due to the content of the offer but also due to the tense relationship between the pilots and FlySafair's management. 'The relationship is at an absolute low,' Cronje said.
The union said even before the start of the salary negotiations, a dispute over a new shift roster system had arisen – a core issue for pilots as it has a negative impact on their family life.
Another obstacle in the salary negotiations, the union said, was the company's new policy on leave and days off.
"Pilots believe that these policies are detrimental to their quality of life, and that they are unfavourable and do not meet minimum expectations."
Strike rules are expected to be finalised under the guidance of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) on Thursday, July 17. The first strike regarding the salary dispute could then commence a few days later, Solidarity said.
The union noted that the airline is also locked in separate salary negotiations for cabin crew.
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