Solidarity says several members resigned from FlySafair due to poor working conditions

JOHANNESBURG - Trade union Solidarity said several of its members have resigned from FlySafair, citing poor working conditions.

Negotiations between the union and the airline’s management resumed last week, but Solidarity claims little progress has been made.

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The union accuses FlySafair of failing to fully engage in the dispute resolution process at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

Dozens of passengers were left stranded last week after FlySafair was forced to cancel flights due to the pilot strike and lockout.

Solidarity said the core issue isn’t about money, but rather about working hours and fatigue.

Spokesperson Helgard Cronjé said pilots are simply asking for better schedules, including at least one weekend off a month.

“But in the meantime, the pilots are getting threatened by management - if they don't accept unfavourable conditions, they will be locked out for another week. In other words, FlySafair wants to frustrate passengers for another week.”

Cronjé added that while salary offers are largely acceptable, working conditions remain a sticking point.