FlySafair Cabin Crew Strike

South Africa’s low-cost carrier FlySafair is facing its first major labour dispute as cabin crew members downed tools on Tuesday, 4 November 2025, over demands for higher wages and changes to their work schedules. Represented by the South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA), the striking workers say the airline’s latest offer falls short of their needs amid rising living costs and demanding rosters. Despite the action, FlySafair insists there will be no disruptions to flights, with more than two-thirds of its cabin crew – including non-union members and some unionists who accepted the deal – committed to keeping services running.
This strike comes after months of tense talks through the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), highlighting ongoing challenges in the aviation sector where staff push for fair pay while companies balance costs to keep fares low. As one of the country’s busiest airlines, FlySafair’s ability to maintain schedules will be closely watched, especially with the festive season approaching when demand for affordable travel spikes.

Background to the Dispute: Months of Deadlocked Negotiations

The walkout follows a breakdown in wage discussions that have dragged on for several months. SACCA declared a dispute earlier this year, leading to CCMA-facilitated talks. After a 30-day cooling-off period expired without a deal, the union gained the legal right to launch a protected strike.
Workers have been vocal about their grievances, pointing to the physical and emotional toll of long hours, irregular shifts, and pay that they say does not match the job’s demands. Cabin crew often work weekends, holidays, and odd hours, dealing with passenger safety and service on packed flights. The union argues that rosters need urgent revision to allow better work-life balance, reduce fatigue, and improve overall well-being.
FlySafair, known for its no-frills model that keeps tickets cheap, has faced similar pressures across the industry, where fuel costs, competition, and economic slowdowns squeeze margins. The airline has emphasised its efforts to reach a fair agreement, but the gap between the two sides proved too wide.
Key Demands and the Airline’s Offer
At the heart of the strike are calls for a meaningful wage hike and roster adjustments. SACCA members want salaries that reflect inflation and the skilled nature of their roles, along with more predictable shifts to ease family and personal commitments.
The airline’s final offer included a 5.7% salary increase, a 7.5% annual bonus, experience-based pay progression each year, and extra monthly allowances. SACCA rejected this, saying it does not go far enough to address their concerns. The union is still reviewing the proposal but has proceeded with the strike to push for better terms.
In response, FlySafair has initiated an employer-led work stoppage, or lockout, starting from midnight on 3 November 2025. This means striking crew could be barred from work premises until a resolution is reached, a move aimed at pressuring the union while protecting operations.

FlySafair’s Assurance: No Disruptions Expected

Despite the industrial action, FlySafair remains confident in its ability to fly as usual. Chief Marketing Officer Kirby Gordon stated: “Unfortunately, the parties did not finalise the settlements today, despite constructive engagement, as the employer initiates work stoppage that will commence from midnight. FlySafair’s full roster is, however, protected with all schedules with flights covered by non-unionist and unionist that have accepted the company’s offer.”
Gordon added: “We value our cabin crew enormously and have aimed to strike a balance between rewarding them and safeguarding the long-term sustainability of the airline. Ultimately, we must ensure FlySafair remains viable and affordable for the millions of travellers who rely on us. Our crew play an essential role in delivering a safe, friendly, and reliable service. We hope to reach an agreement soon and will continue working towards a resolution founded in respect, fairness, and long-term sustainability.”
The airline credits its preparedness to a mix of non-striking staff and a slightly reduced schedule due to pre-festive fleet maintenance. If talks stall further, FlySafair plans to seek Section 150 mediation at the CCMA for a quick, fair settlement with minimal impact on costs and passengers.

Potential Impact on Passengers and the Aviation Sector

For now, travellers can breathe easy – FlySafair says all flights are fully staffed and on track. The airline operates over 100 daily flights across South Africa and to regional spots like Mauritius and Zanzibar, serving budget-conscious flyers. Any hiccups could ripple through the travel industry, but the company’s contingency plans seem solid.
This strike spotlights broader issues in aviation, where crew unions worldwide push for better conditions post-pandemic. In South Africa, it echoes past disputes at airlines like SAA, where labour woes led to groundings and bailouts. SACCA, affiliated with larger unions, may draw support from organised labour, potentially escalating if no deal is struck soon.

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FlySafair

FlySafair Cabin Crew Strike: Workers Demand Better Pay and Rosters as Airline Vows Smooth Operations

FlySafair Cabin Crew Strike

Background to the Dispute: Months of Deadlocked Negotiations

FlySafair’s Assurance: No Disruptions Expected

Potential Impact on Passengers and the Aviation Sector

centralnewsza #news #politics #ngwathe #feziledabi #freestate

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