FlySafair has confirmed additional flight cancellations as industrial action by its pilots continues into a second day, disrupting operations and leaving many passengers frustrated.
On Monday, the airline cancelled 26 flights, resulting in long queues and delays at airports. Two more flights – FA326 and FA327 – were cancelled on Tuesday as the labour dispute remained unresolved.
In response to the ongoing disruptions, FlySafair announced that contingency plans had been activated to assist affected travellers. The airline has urged customers to check its website for updates and apologised for the inconvenience caused.
FlySafair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Kirby Gordon, speaking at OR Tambo International Airport, said the situation stemmed from a sudden withdrawal of pilots who had previously committed to covering the schedule.
The no-shows, which began late Sunday evening, forced the airline to ground flights, despite efforts to maintain operations.
The dispute has become a point of contention between FlySafair and Solidarity, the union representing the pilots.
While the airline refers to the action as a strike, Solidarity argues it was in fact a lockout initiated by the employer, preventing pilots from reporting for duty.
Solidarity said its members were prepared to engage in talks and had notified the airline of a one-day strike to prompt a return to the negotiation table.
The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) has since reached out, and the union confirmed its willingness to resume discussions.
Despite the airline’s efforts to minimise the fallout, the disruptions have affected numerous travellers, many of whom were forced to buy new tickets or rearrange their plans. With the situation still unfolding, further cancellations or delays remain a possibility.
Facebook Comments