Johannesburg, 27 July 2025 – FlySafair continues to operate a stable but reduced flight schedule as the new week begins, with more pilots returning to duty each day. While seat availability remains limited under the scaled-back schedule, operations are running reliably, giving customers confidence in travel plans.
Meanwhile, members of the trade union Solidarity have voted to reject the company’s most recent offer.
The primary point of disagreement centres on the union’s demand for the implementation of fixed scheduling rules. While the intention behind these proposals is to improve work-life balance, their combined effect would substantially limit the airline’s ability to roster pilots efficiently. This could, in turn, negatively impact both passengers and the wider crew.
As a constructive alternative, FlySafair proposed the formation of an independently chaired joint roster committee comprising both pilot and company representatives. This body would be empowered to test and refine proposed scheduling rules in a live environment before implementation – ensuring that any changes are carefully evaluated for their impact on productivity, safety, and overall wellbeing.
“We had hoped that our proposal which was designed to give pilots a meaningful say in shaping their roster parameters would be well received,” said Kirby Gordon Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair. “We’re disappointed that Solidarity has chosen not to pursue this collaborative approach.”
FlySafair remains proud of its people and the work they do. The company is committed to continued dialogue under the guidance of the CCMA, with details of the next meeting still to be confirmed. We remain open to discussion and hopeful that a fair, balanced resolution can soon be reached—one that supports both individual wellbeing and the airline’s ability to serve South Africa reliably.