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 flysafair.co.za.”

IOL News 

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