Striking FlySafair pilots are among 'top 1% earners' in South Africa
This figure was, by all accounts, higher than anticipated, because of last-minute withdrawal of several available pilots. These striking FlySafair pilots had previously confirmed participation in scheduled flights for the week, says the airline.
Nevertheless, the airline released a public statement on Monday, saying it regrets any disruption caused, reports Daily Maverick . Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair, Kirby Gordon, also took the opportunity to give some context to its dealings with striking FlySafair pilots.
The union, Solidarity, currently represents nearly 90% of the striking FlySafair pilots. As such, it is demanding a 10.5% increase in base salary. However, the airline explains that the full package – including flight pay, bonuses and other benefits – would represent a cost-to-company increase of 20%. It's too early to tell how long striking FlySafair pilots are prepared to down tools for. Image: File
Moreover, the low-cost airline revealed that FlySafair captains currently earn between R1.8 million and R2.3 million annually. This already puts them in the top 1% of earners in South Africa. Furthermore, this puts them ahead of some Executive Committee members at the airline itself.
As such, FlySafair believes its current counteroffer of 5.7% increase on the base salary is 'fair and responsible.' When fully costed, the offer equates to an 11% increase, cost to company. And it says Solidarity's demands are not only economically unsustainable, but they risk undermining the affordability of low-cost air travel in South Africa.
Solidarity says FlySafair pilot workload is a concern. Meanwhile, the airline argues its captains average 63 hours of flight time per month. While the regulatory maximum is 100 hours per month, according to the SA Civil Aviation Authority. Therefore, it maintains its pilot utilisation is efficient, compliant, and in line with global standards.
FlySafair issued a seven-day lockout, a standard labour relations mechanism, after Solidarity escalated a one-day strike to two weeks. 'Any affected customers are encouraged to consult the Travel Updates on flysafair.co.za. And airport teams remain on standby to assist with rebookings, refunds, and alternative arrangements,' concludes Kirby.
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