Natalie Nyathi
Long queues and flight cancellations have been a reality for FlySafair passengers since the pilot strike began on July 21, 2025. Over 200 pilots, represented by the Solidarity union, have gone on strike over wages and working conditions, affecting many travelers.
The main issue is the pilots’ demand for a 10.5% salary increase for the 2025/26 financial year to restore their earnings to pre-pandemic levels. FlySafair has offered a 5.7% increase, saying the union’s demands would be too costly. The airline argues that its pilots are already among the best-paid in South Africa, with captains earning between R1.8 million and R2.3 million a year.
Another point of contention is a change in the pilot scheduling system. Solidarity claims this has led to increased fatigue and less rest time for pilots. The union has criticized FlySafair’s aggressive approach, saying the airline prioritizes profits over pilot well-being. FlySafair insists that the new scheduling system is necessary for keeping costs down and staying competitive.
Solidarity originally planned a one-day strike to encourage FlySafair to negotiate. However, the airline responded by locking out the pilots for seven days, which Solidarity condemned as harmful. The union then extended the strike notice to 14 days.
As the situation escalated, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) stepped in to mediate the dispute. While Solidarity welcomed this intervention, it initially accused FlySafair of refusing to participate in the mediation process. FlySafair denied these claims, saying it had been engaged with the CCMA from the start.
Eventually, FlySafair agreed to take part in the CCMA mediation. However, Solidarity remains doubtful about the airline’s urgency in resolving the issue. The union is concerned that FlySafair is underestimating the impact of the strike and that many more passengers will be affected before a serious negotiation takes place.
As the strike continues, FlySafair is working to minimize disruptions by rebooking passengers and processing refunds. However, the airline has warned that flights will remain limited for the rest of the week. The outcome of the CCMA mediation will be key in deciding whether FlySafair and its pilots can reach a resolution that addresses their concerns and restores stability to South Africa’s air travel.