Cape Town – FlySafair and trade union Solidarity are set for negotiations over pilot employment conditions and rostering, with Solidarity claiming that poor management and scheduling changes are driving pilots away.
The union argues that the new rostering system negatively impacts pilots’ quality of life and could lead to further staff losses, affecting operations.
“Solidarity is currently engaged in a dispute with FlySafair over a new rostering system that has had a significant negative impact on pilots’ quality of life,” IOL quoted Solidarity’s network organiser for the aviation industry, Remón Viviers as saying.
“If this issue is not addressed urgently, it could result in further staff losses, which could have a serious impact on the airline’s operations.”
FlySafair, however, maintains that its system aligns with global best practices, enhances efficiency, and incorporates pilot input.
According to Businesstech, the airline highlighted features like flight swaps and bidding for preferred schedules, saying these improvements comply with flight regulations and fatigue management protocols.
“Our rostering system is the same as that implemented by all other airlines in South Africa and many others around the world,” the airline said.
“It is designed to optimise aircraft utilisation, improve operational efficiency, and ultimately reduce costs—allowing us to continue offering competitive fares to our passengers,” FlySafair said.
The company said that it remains committed to fair negotiations, competitive remuneration, and industry-aligned working conditions.
The initial official discussion regarding the concerns raised by Solidarity is scheduled for 20 March 2025.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
