Negotiations between FlySafair and Solidarity, the union representing the airline’s striking pilots, have shown some promise, although critical issues surrounding a controversial rostering system remain unresolved. The ongoing strike, which began on Monday, is primarily driven by pilots’ concerns over pay and working conditions.

In a statement Solidarity highlighted that the core of the dispute has shifted from financial compensation to the problematic rostering system, which is currently under mediation by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

The union’s representation indicated that had FlySafair chosen to extend negotiations beyond 7pm on Friday, the strike might have been resolved by Saturday. On that same day, FlySafair submitted a final offer via e-mail, which Solidarity claimed failed to address the substantial issues that pilots have been voicing for some time.

While the airline’s proposed salary increase over the next three years was generally found acceptable, Solidarity expressed that vital concerns regarding the roster—such as creating a more predictable schedule and ensuring that pilots receive at least one weekend off per month—were inadequately addressed. The union described the response as containing too much “vague” language, leading to further frustration.

Moreover, Solidarity is advocating for the establishment of a flight roster and scheduling committee with substantial authority, enabling regular meetings between pilots and FlySafair management to tackle ongoing roster issues effectively. They argue that the existing unpredictable scheduling system causes significant stress, exhaustion, and disruption in pilots’ personal lives, contributing to resignations among staff.

“Pilots carry enormous responsibility daily—they operate aircraft worth hundreds of millions of rands and transport thousands of passengers,” Solidarity underscored, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Reports indicate that pilots may experience erratic schedules, working shifts that start around 11am and extend past midnight on certain days. Conversely, early flights require them to be up by as early as 3am to prepare. In this context, Solidarity argues that adequate rest is not merely a luxury but an essential requirement. They contend that the current algorithmically driven scheduling system hinders reasonable planning and family life, a significant contrast to the previous roster framework.

Throughout the past week, FlySafair has maintained a reduced and stable flight timetable despite the ongoing pilot strike. However, there are growing concerns that without a resolution, flight cancellations may become necessary in the upcoming week as pilots currently flying may reach their legal duties limit.

Earlier this week, FlySafair asserted that its pilots are among the best-paid professionals in South Africa, reportedly earning between R1.8 million and R2.3 million annually. Addressing the rostering concerns, the airline reiterated that its scheduling system, which aligns with global airline industry standards, allows pilots to receive their full monthly rosters by the 20th of the preceding month, facilitating personal planning and scheduling.

FlySafair also noted that captains spent an average of 63 hours in the cockpit within the past month, a figure well within the regulatory limits set by the Civil Aviation Authority and international aviation authorities, which cap flight duty at 100 hours per month.

IOL

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