Johannesburg – South African low-cost carrier FlySafair has begun proactively rescheduling flights for next week amidst escalating tensions with its pilots, raising the spectre of widespread travel disruption.
This pre-emptive move comes as the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) intervenes today to finalise rules for potential protected strike action by pilots represented by trade union Solidarity.
The core dispute centres on a rejected wage offer. After three months of negotiations, FlySafair’s final proposal of a 5.7% salary increase plus additional compensation adjustments was overwhelmingly rejected by Solidarity’s pilot members. However, the union stresses that the conflict runs far deeper than mere numbers.
“The rejection is not only due to the content of the offer; it is especially due to the extremely tense relationship between the pilots and FlySafair’s management,” stated Solidarity Deputy General Secretary Helgard Cronje. “The relationship is at an absolute low.”
Cronje highlighted that simmering discontent predates the wage talks, notably concerning the airline’s introduction of a new shift roster system pilots claim is “inflexible and disruptive,” severely impacting their family lives. He warned this roster issue is a separate matter that could trigger another strike action later.
Further fuelling the fire are changes to FlySafair’s policies on leave and days off. Pilots argue these policies are “detrimental to their quality of life” and fail to meet minimum expectations. “The poor relationship between management and pilots has now led to the public bearing the consequences of unresolved workplace conflict,” Solidarity asserted.
With the wage negotiation deadlock official, the CCMA is facilitating Thursday’s meeting to finalise picketing rules. Only after this can Solidarity formally issue the required 72-hour strike notice to the airline. Cronje confirmed that while notice hasn’t been issued yet, pilots have a clear mandate to strike if FlySafair doesn’t shift its position. “If FlySafair doesn’t change their position or their policies, the next step is strike action,” he stated.
Proactive schedule changes
In anticipation of possible industrial action, FlySafair announced it is rescheduling selected flights departing between Tuesday, July 22, and Monday, July 28, 2025.
“To ensure the best possible experience for our customers, FlySafair is proactively announcing schedule changes as a precautionary measure in light of ongoing labour discussions,” the airline said in a statement. Kirby Gordon, FlySafair’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasised, “We have no line of sight as to whether a strike will take place and if so, for how long and to what extent, but we have decided to act preemptively to ensure that any possible disruptions are minimised.”
Affected customers will be contacted directly using the details provided at booking. The airline strongly encourages all passengers travelling during this period to check their booking status via the FlySafair website’s “Manage Booking” portal. Customers can change to more convenient alternative flights at no additional cost through this system.
“FlySafair will continue efforts to minimise inconvenience and maintain safe, reliable services during this period. The airline thanks customers for their patience and understanding,” Gordon added. The airline also expressed respect for the pilots’ legal right to strike while reaffirming its commitment to finding a resolution: “We deeply value our pilots… We respect their right to raise concerns and remain committed to engaging in good faith to reach a constructive resolution that supports our people, our passengers, and the long-term viability of our business.”
Broader troubles and potential cabin crew action
This pilot dispute adds another layer of challenge for FlySafair, an airline already navigating significant headwinds. The carrier is currently embroiled in legal trouble over ownership compliance, with the Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC) having granted it a 12-month period to resolve the issue. The carrier is also being investigated by the National Consumer Commission (NCC) over alleged overbooking practices.
Furthermore, the potential for disruption doesn’t end with the pilots. Solidarity confirmed that separate salary negotiations are ongoing between FlySafair and the South African Cabin Crew Association (SACA). While Cronje stated there is currently “no coordination” between the unions for strike action, he warned that cabin crew negotiations could also become difficult based on past experience. This raises the possibility of a cascading effect on operations if multiple employee groups take action.
Traveller advice: Be prepared
With uncertainty looming, passengers booked on FlySafair flights between July 22-28 are advised to:
- Check flight status: Regularly monitor your booking via the FlySafair website or app.
- Check communications: Look out for emails or SMSs from FlySafair regarding schedule changes.
- Consider alternatives: Utilise the free change option on the website if your flight is altered or if you wish to move to a less risky date.
- Allow extra time: If travelling during this period, build in extra time at the airport in case of last-minute changes or processing delays.
- Stay informed: Check official FlySafair channels and NOWinSA regularly for updates.
