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Solidarity is preparing to enter into salary negotiations with FlySafair with the aim of improving the employment conditions of pilots, thereby limiting the exodus of skilled personnel.

These negotiations are of critical importance as several factors are forcing pilots to consider other job opportunities.

This is according to Remón Viviers, Solidarity’s network organiser for the aviation industry. According to Viviers, the negotiations are not only aimed at securing competitive salaries for pilots, but also at improving their working conditions and general well-being.

“Solidarity is currently engaged in a dispute with FlySafair over a new rostering system that has had a significant negative impact on pilots’ quality of life,” Viviers said.

The union has repeatedly expressed its concerns about the changes in the shift schedule, which they say is causing great dissatisfaction among members. If this issue is not addressed urgently, it could result in further staff losses, which could have a serious impact on the airline's operations. Viviers added that FlySafair’s management does not realise how disruptive and frustrating the new rostering system is for pilots.

“This lack of understanding could potentially have a negative impact on the salary negotiations, and therefore it is crucial that a mutually beneficial solution is found during the negotiations – not only for the well-being of the pilots, but also for the sustainability of FlySafair and the broader aviation industry in South Africa,” Viviers said.

Solidarity is currently awaiting confirmation of a date on which salary negotiations will be formally launched. The union remains committed to negotiating a fair and sustainable agreement for its members and ensuring that FlySafair will be able to maintain its position as a reliable and stable airline.

Issued by Solidarity