FlySafair has confirmed that some of its pilots are preparing to go on strike following a breakdown in salary negotiations.
FlySafair confirms pilots are going on strike
The airline said it received a strike certificate from the trade union Solidarity after talks reached a deadlock, allowing for legally protected industrial action to start after giving 72 hours’ notice.
The dispute has been building for three months, with negotiations stalling over pay, work schedules, and leave policies.
lySafair said it offered a 5.7% salary increase along with other benefits, but the union rejected the proposal.
Solidarity has expressed deeper concerns about pilot workloads and the strain caused by a newly introduced shift roster.
According to FlySafair’s chief marketing officer Kirby Gordon, the airline is taking steps to avoid disruption.
“We are fully prepared to manage the situation responsibly, with contingency plans in place to ensure minimal disruption to our schedule and service. Customers can continue to book and travel with confidence,” he said.
Gordon also stressed that passenger safety remains the airline’s top priority.
“Current operations remain fully compliant with all aviation safety regulations,” he said.
FlySafair has already begun making changes to its schedule in anticipation of possible disruptions.
Some flights between Tuesday, 22 July and Monday, 28 July, 2025, are being rescheduled.
Affected customers are being contacted and offered no-cost rebookings to other flights via the airline’s website.
The strike certificate now opens the door for legal industrial action, but no dates have been set yet.
The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) is expected to finalise the rules of the strike on Thursday, 17 July 2025.
Once that is done, Solidarity would need to give 72 hours’ notice before the strike can begin.
Solidarity has also warned that cabin crew could join the protest if their own pay talks with the airline break down. Deputy general secretary Helgard Cronje said issues around work-life balance, particularly the new shift system, are central to pilot dissatisfaction.
“The roster dispute and perceived inflexibility in work scheduling are adding to frustrations,” Cronje stated.
FlySafair has said it will respect the rights of those who choose to strike and those who do not.
The airline has also reiterated its commitment to a sustainable aviation industry in South Africa and promised to continue talks to reach a fair agreement for all parties involved.
