FlySafair refutes avoiding CCMA mediation as pilots strike over pay

FLYSAFAIR has refuted claims suggesting that it has refused to engage with the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), asserting that it has actively participated in all required discussions throughout the process.

- SIPHELELE DLUDLA

This comes as FlySafair experienced operational disruptions on Monday as it was forced to cancel 26 flights following the lockout of around 200 pilots who have embarked on industrial action.

The pilots are demanding a 10.5% baseline increase alongside adjustments to flight pay and bonuses for the next financial year, and then 4.5% and 4% respectively for the two years thereafter. They rejected the proposed 5.7% salary increase by FlySafair.

Trade union Solidarity had accused FlySafair of refusing to accept the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) to mediate the dispute in terms of section 150 of the Labour Relations Act but resolving to lock out its pilots for seven days.

However, the CCMA was roped in to mediate the dispute on Monday after FlySafair cancelled 13% of its scheduled flights.

FlySafair on Tuesday said it remained committed to resolving this matter constructively and will be meeting with the CCMA on Wednesday.