FlySafair passengers faced significant disruptions today as a wage protest by pilots entered its second day, forcing the cancellation of 26 flights. The industrial action, led by trade union Solidarity, has now been extended after the airline imposed a seven-day lockout on striking pilots.
Strike Action Intensifies
Solidarity Deputy General Secretary Helgard Cronjé confirmed that the strike—initially planned as a one-day protest—was prolonged in response to FlySafair’s lockout measure. The union has rejected the airline’s offer of a 5.7% wage increase, demanding instead a 10.5% raise for the 2025-2026 financial year.
Cronjé accused FlySafair of negotiating in bad faith, claiming the airline failed to engage with the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) over the weekend. “Our intention was not to disrupt operations but to bring FlySafair back to the table. Their response was a lockout,” Cronjé said.
Airline’s Response: “Unreasonable Demands”
FlySafair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Kirby Gordon, defended the airline’s position, stating that the union’s demand for a 10.5% base pay increase would translate to a 20.1% total cost-to-company hike—a figure he called “economically unviable.”
“Pilots are already among the top 1% of earners, with captains earning between R1.8 million and R2.3 million annually,” Gordon said. He emphasized that the airline’s 5.7% offer, combined with bonuses and flight pay, amounts to an 11.29% increase—far above industry standards in South Africa’s current economy.
Passenger Frustrations Mount
At OR Tambo International Airport, stranded passengers expressed frustration over last-minute cancellations and rescheduled flights. Despite FlySafair’s contingency plans, the strike’s impact was evident, with long queues and delays.
Gordon acknowledged the disruptions, apologizing to affected customers and stating that the airline was working to rebook passengers on later flights or with partner carriers. However, he warned that further cancellations could occur if the strike continues.
Lockout vs. Strike
The dispute escalated when FlySafair implemented a seven-day lockout, preventing striking pilots from returning to work unless they accept the current offer. Solidarity has since extended its strike notice to 14 days in retaliation.
Gordon clarified that the lockout was a legal defensive measure, allowing pilots to return if they agree to the terms. He denied claims that rostering changes had negatively impacted pilots, stating that FlySafair’s system aligns with global aviation standards.
Economic Fallout
With 13% of today’s flights cancelled, FlySafair faces mounting financial losses. Gordon admitted the strike would harm both the company and pilots, who are forfeiting wages under the “no work, no pay” principle.
Despite the deadlock, FlySafair remains open to negotiations. “No one wins in this scenario,” Gordon said. “We urge Solidarity to return to the table for a realistic solution.”
What’s Next?
As the strike continues, passengers are advised to check flight statuses before heading to airports. Meanwhile, the standoff highlights broader tensions in South Africa’s aviation sector, where wage disputes and operational challenges persist post-pandemic.