South African airline FlySafair faces operational disruptions as pilots represented by the Solidarity trade union commence industrial action and cancels 26 flights across major domestic routes.
FlySafair’s late Sunday statement confirmed implementation of contingency measures while acknowledging service interruptions:
“Despite operational plans to maintain schedules, we’ve experienced unexpected pilot unavailability leading to necessary cancellations. Affected passengers have received direct notifications.”
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Flysafair Cancels flights after pilots strike
Notable cancellations include:
- FA112 – Cape Town to Johannesburg (11:45)
- FA262 – Johannesburg to Durban (14:25)
- FA310 – Cape Town to Lanseria (07:20)
- FA840 – Cape Town to Bloemfontein (06:30)
- FA130 – Cape Town to Port Elizabeth (12:25)
A complete list of 26 affected flights has been published by the airline.
Compensation Package Controversy
The carrier contends that Solidarity’s proposal would exceed 20% in total employment costs when accounting for base pay, flight bonuses, and additional benefits – a figure the company deems financially unviable. FlySafair maintains its counteroffer represents an 11.29% overall compensation increase.
“Our pilots rank among the industry’s highest earners,” stated airline representatives, noting captain salaries range between R1.8-R2.3 million annually. “Compensation packages consistently outperform domestic competitors and comply with all aviation regulatory standards.”
Operational Practices Defended
Addressing union concerns about working conditions, FlySafair emphasised its rostering system aligns with global aviation standards:
“The implemented framework provides scheduling transparency with monthly rosters published by the 20th of the preceding month, incorporating flexible duty-swapping mechanisms while adhering to strict safety limits.”
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According to operational data, captains averaged 63 flight hours during June, which is well below the 100-hour monthly maximum mandated by the Civil Aviation Authority, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
The airline expressed regret for passenger inconveniences while affirming its commitment to swift dispute resolution through continued negotiations with labour representatives.