FlySafair has begun adjusting flight schedules for selected routes departing between July 22 and 28, in anticipation of a potential pilot strike. Affected passengers are being notified of the changes.
The proactive move comes as salary negotiations between the airline and its pilots—represented by Solidarity—have reached a deadlock. The union, which represents nearly two-thirds of FlySafair’s pilots, confirmed that 84% of its members rejected a proposed 5.7% salary increase with additional compensation adjustments.
Solidarity is expected to finalize strike terms by July 17, with industrial action possibly commencing shortly thereafter.
“Working conditions have deteriorated. Pilots are facing burnout, and the relationship with management is deteriorating,” said Helgard Cronjé, Deputy General Secretary at Solidarity.
The union cites unsustainable scheduling and pilot fatigue as key concerns.
FlySafair has not commented publicly on contingency plans beyond the schedule adjustments. The airline is South Africa’s leading low-cost carrier, and any operational disruptions could significantly impact domestic air travel during the busy winter holiday season.
