SAA Cancels International Flights as Pilots Strike...

SAA Cancels International Flights as Pilots Strike Over Pay Dispute

Zim Now Writer

South African Airways has canceled flights to Perth and São Paulo following a strike by its pilots over stalled pay negotiations.

The decision to cancel the flights was made late Wednesday after the South African Airways Pilots Association (SAAPA) confirmed that the strike would proceed on Thursday, according to SAA’s corporate relations senior manager, Khaya Buthelezi. Efforts to find partner airlines to accommodate affected passengers were unsuccessful.

While international operations faced disruption, domestic and regional flights across Africa remained unaffected due to contingency plans. However, scenes of picketing pilots were reported at the airline’s offices at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

Speaking to SABC, SAAPA representative Sibusiso Nxumalo emphasized that the pilots’ demands extended beyond salary increases. “We’re advocating for better working conditions and fair employment terms,” Nxumalo said, adding that the company had shown profitability in recent months, highlighting the need for improved treatment of staff.

The strike follows months of negotiation deadlock. Initially, SAAPA sought a 30% pay rise, later reducing the demand to 15.7%, inclusive of benefits. SAA’s interim CEO, John Lamola, stated that meeting such demands could threaten the company’s financial stability, potentially leading to bankruptcy.

The airline has instead proposed an 8.46% pay increase, retroactive to April. With both sides unable to find common ground, the labor dispute continues to disrupt operations, raising questions about SAA's ability to balance profitability with workforce satisfaction.