FlySafair cabin crew launch strike after wage talks hit a wall

As the cabin crew strike at FlySafair enters its first days, union representatives say their walkout isn’t just about pay: it’s about fairness, respect, and better working conditions at South Africa’s largest airline.

The South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA), the union that represents most of FlySafair’s flight attendants, confirmed that members began industrial action at midnight on Tuesday after wage negotiations with management officially broke down.

At the heart of the dispute are demands for meaningful salary adjustments, recognition of increased workload pressures, and a review of flight duty and rest schedules that crew say are straining their work-life balance.

FlySafair cabin crew reject wage offers

Among the key sticking points is what the union calls the “lunch-hour sacrifice”, a policy where cabin crew give up rest time during shifts without adequate compensation.

SACCA argues that this arrangement is outdated and unfair, particularly as crews take on more flights amid post-pandemic growth in travel.

FlySafair’s latest offer, which included a 5.7% wage increase, a 7.5% annual bonus, pay progression, and monthly allowances, was rejected by the union, which insisted that the deal does not go far enough to address long-term inequities or rising living costs.

FlySafair also confirmed that it will seek mediation through the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA). At the same time, both parties have agreed to consult the Department of Labour on legal questions raised during talks.

“This strike, and the settlement agreement that needs to be signed, is fundamentally about compensation and about members feeling heard,” said Kirby Gordon, FlySafair’s Chief Marketing Officer.

For now, SACCA says the strike will continue until an improved agreement is reached on pay and working conditions.