Latest news with #FlySafair
IOL News
an hour ago
- Business
- IOL News
'FlySafair's lockout of pilots is reckless towards the public': Union
Trade union Solidarity has called on FlySafair to return to the negotiating table ahead of the pilot lockout on Monday. Trade union Solidarity has called on FlySafair to return to the negotiating table ahead of the pilot lockout on Monday. FlySafair's flights could be disrupted for two weeks as the company will lock out its pilots from tomorrow. This comes after almost 90% of the pilots voted in favour of a strike. Solidarity gave FlySafair notice of a one-day strike, but FlySafair responded with a notice stating that it would lock out the pilots for seven days, which could last for an additional seven days. "This forced Solidarity to extend its strike notice to 14 days as well. In the meantime, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) offered to mediate again. "Solidarity has agreed to this, but FlySafair is still refusing," said union spokesperson Helgard Cronjé. "According to Solidarity, FlySafair's lockout of pilots is reckless towards the public. Solidarity is calling on FlySafair to return to the negotiating table. "The pilots are asking for their salaries to be rectified after the salary cuts during Covid, as well as for employment conditions not to be changed and for adequate provision to be made for rest and family time." In the face of the turmoil, FlySafair's co-founder Kirby Gordon confirmed that a strike certificate had been issued to Solidarity and the Pilot Union, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation. He assured that the airline had made proactive adjustments to its operational schedules to limit disruptions for customers. "Customers whose future travel plans have been affected by these adjustments have already been notified via the contact details provided at the time of booking,' Gordon said. Despite the disruptions, FlySafair has reiterated its commitment to balancing employee rights with the airline's sustainability. "Travellers wishing to review their flight details or, if affected by rescheduling, change to a more convenient option may do so free of charge via the Manage Booking section at IOL News
The Herald
17 hours ago
- Business
- The Herald
FlySafair pilots to embark on two-week strike after deadlock in wage negotiations
FlySafair pilots belonging to the Solidarity workers' union will embark on a two-week strike from Monday after a deadlock in wage negotiations with management. The duration of strike, which was initially planned to take place over one day, was changed to 14 days after the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) agreed to the rules for the industrial action. In a statement on Friday, the union said due to the company's unwillingness to meet the demands of the workers, they were left with no other option but to down their tools. 'In its reaction to the company's aggressive action, Solidarity decided to extend the one-day strike initially planned to 14 days.' The more than 200 pilots are demanding a 10% salary increase and improved working conditions. FlySafair's offer to workers of a 5.7% salary increase along with some additional adjustments to compensation was rejected by the vast majority of Solidarity's members. The labour union accused the airline of issuing a seven-day lockout for pilots represented by Solidarity. 'This step indicates that the airline is deliberately opting for a prolonged and destabilising conflict, which could possibly be extended by another seven days should Solidarity and its members not comply with management's controversial demands. This means that no flights can be guaranteed for the next two weeks.' The union claims the airline is in a good financial position as it recently made millions through the sale of shares. 'Ironically, this lockout was announced while, according to media reports, two of FlySafair's most senior management members, CEO Elmar Conradie and CFO Pieter Richards, have recently realised more than R90m by selling shares — possibly at the expense of FlySafair's licence conditions.' TimesLIVE
TimesLIVE
a day ago
- Business
- TimesLIVE
FlySafair pilots to embark on two-week strike after deadlock in wage negotiations
FlySafair pilots belonging to the Solidarity workers' union will embark on a two-week strike from Monday after a deadlock in wage negotiations with management. The duration of strike, which was initially planned to take place over one day, was changed to 14 days after the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) agreed to the rules for the industrial action. In a statement on Friday, the union said due to the company's unwillingness to meet the demands of the workers, they were left with no other option but to down their tools. 'In its reaction to the company's aggressive action, Solidarity decided to extend the one-day strike initially planned to 14 days.' The more than 200 pilots are demanding a 10% salary increase and improved working conditions. FlySafair's offer to workers of a 5.7% salary increase along with some additional adjustments to compensation was rejected by the vast majority of Solidarity's members. The labour union accused the airline of issuing a seven-day lockout for pilots represented by Solidarity. 'This step indicates that the airline is deliberately opting for a prolonged and destabilising conflict, which could possibly be extended by another seven days should Solidarity and its members not comply with management's controversial demands. This means that no flights can be guaranteed for the next two weeks.' The union claims the airline is in a good financial position as it recently made millions through the sale of shares. 'Ironically, this lockout was announced while, according to media reports, two of FlySafair's most senior management members, CEO Elmar Conradie and CFO Pieter Richards, have recently realised more than R90m by selling shares — possibly at the expense of FlySafair's licence conditions.'
The South African
a day ago
- General
- The South African
FlySafair pilots too tired to fly YOUR flight
The ongoing dispute between FlySafair and its pilots, now escalating into a two-week strike, has cast the spotlight on a critical aviation safety concern: Pilot fatigue and deteriorating work-life balance in South Africa's low-cost airline sector. While much of the public discourse has focused on flight delays and salary disputes, pilots represented by Union Solidarity say the core issue goes far beyond pay. According to the union, the strike action – supported by 88% of FlySafair pilots – is rooted in mounting frustration over excessive workloads, inadequate rest periods, and unrelenting rosters that they argue jeopardise both safety and well-being. 'The majority of our pilots are burnt out,' a Solidarity spokesperson said. 'Many of them report chronic fatigue and minimal recovery time between long duty cycles. This is not just about salaries – it's about safety in the skies.' Aviation experts warn that pilot fatigue is a real and growing risk, especially as airlines expand their schedules to meet post-pandemic demand. Fatigued pilots are more likely to make errors in judgment, and international safety bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have urged airlines globally to adopt strict Fatigue Risk Management Systems (FRMS). FlySafair's pilots have reportedly expressed concern over scheduling practices that often push legal limits, with rest periods allegedly falling below international best practices. 'We've raised these concerns repeatedly,' said one pilot on condition of anonymity. 'But nothing changes. We're simply exhausted.' FlySafair, meanwhile, has defended its rostering and safety record. Spokesperson Kirby Gordon said the airline complies with all Civil Aviation Authority regulations and is committed to constructive engagement with staff. 'We are disappointed in the strike escalation but are working hard to minimise disruptions,' Gordon said. 'FlySafair's number one priority remains the safety of our passengers and crew.' The airline has adjusted its flight schedules and issued penalty-free rebooking options for affected travellers. Aviation analysts say FlySafair's situation reflects broader tensions in the low-cost carrier model, where lean staffing and high-frequency flights can stretch crew members thin. 'South African aviation is overdue for a conversation about crew fatigue and sustainable scheduling,' said aviation consultant Nkululeko Dube. 'Fatigue doesn't just affect one airline – it's an industry-wide concern that requires regulation and transparency.' The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) is facilitating talks between FlySafair and Solidarity. While the union remains open to mediation, it insists that pilot wellness must be prioritised before any deal is reached. 'No matter how well-maintained a plane is, it's only as safe as the people flying it,' Solidarity concluded. Strike duration : Two weeks starting Monday, 21 July : Two weeks starting Monday, 21 July Core issue : Pilot fatigue and poor work-life balance : Pilot fatigue and poor work-life balance Union stance : Rest time and wellness must be addressed : Rest time and wellness must be addressed Airline response : Flights adjusted; mediation ongoing : Flights adjusted; mediation ongoing Safety concern: Experts urge stronger fatigue regulation Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
a day ago
- Business
- The South African
Red card in the sky: Springboks grounded by FlySafair strike
A brewing industrial dispute between low-cost airline FlySafair and its pilots has dramatically escalated, with Solidarity Union announcing a two-week strike in response to the airline's decision to implement a seven-day lockout. Initially planned as a one-day strike to minimise public disruption, Solidarity now says it has no choice but to extend action after what it described as a 'drastic and combative' move by the airline. 'Almost 9 out of 10 pilots voted for the strike. They are no longer willing to work under the current conditions,' Solidarity stated, citing long-standing concerns around rest periods, work-life balance, and a rejected 5.7% salary increase. The extended strike, beginning on Monday, means that FlySafair passengers may face significant disruptions until early August. The union has warned that no flights can be guaranteed during the period. 'Unfortunately, this means passengers will be experiencing disruptions for the next two weeks,' Solidarity added. FlySafair responded by confirming the issuance of a strike certificate and said it had proactively adjusted operations to reduce impact. 'Customers whose travel plans are affected have already been notified,' said Kirby Gordon, FlySafair spokesperson. 'Affected travellers can visit our website to change their flights without penalty.' Solidarity noted that the strike is not solely about pay but ongoing dissatisfaction with working conditions. Pilots have raised red flags over excessive schedules and inadequate rest, issues which have reportedly persisted for months. The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) is now involved and has offered to mediate between the parties. Solidarity says it is open to dialogue, but has not backed down from its strike plans. Gordon stressed that FlySafair is committed to finding resolution, while balancing operational needs and customer service. 'We understand this is a challenging time, and we appreciate our customers' patience as we navigate this process,' Gordon said. FlySafair has not yet indicated whether further flight cancellations are on the horizon, but industry analysts warn that sustained industrial action could seriously disrupt the airline's winter travel schedules. FlySafair is the official flight carrier of the Springboks. The Springboks are currently in Mbombela preparing for their Test against Georgia on Saturday. Thereafter, they will somehow need to return home before preparing for the Rugby Championships. Strike Period : Begins Monday, 22 July, expected to last two weeks : Begins Monday, 22 July, expected to last Affected : Passengers travelling with FlySafair : Passengers travelling with FlySafair Action Steps : Check email or SMS for flight changes, or visit the FlySafair website to rebook flights free of charge : Check email or SMS for flight changes, or visit the FlySafair website to rebook flights free of charge Mediation: CCMA involved, but no agreement reached as of yet Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
