FlySafair turns to CCMA as cabin crew dispute escalates

Low cost carrier FlySafair has approached the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration to intervene in a labour dispute that saw members of the South African Cabin Crew Association locked out after negotiations broke down. The airline confirmed that it will apply for a Section 150 process, which allows a commissioner to intervene even without the full consent of the parties.

FlySafair said the lockout began at midnight on Monday and that operational coverage has been secured for the coming roster cycle. The airline reported that more than two thirds of its cabin crew, including both union affiliated staff and non union members who had accepted the company’s offer, are currently working. The November schedule has been deliberately reduced to allow for maintenance ahead of the busy December travel period.

Marketing manager Kirby Gordon told radio station 702 that although the industrial action could in theory continue indefinitely, FlySafair believes the matter qualifies under essential service regulations and requires urgent CCMA involvement. He said the airline is seeking assistance to resolve the dispute with certainty and urgency.

FlySafair added that the combination of a reduced schedule, commitment from existing staff, and additional staff in preparation for the December period provides a buffer to protect the roster.

The South African Cabin Crew Association, however, accused FlySafair of acting in bad faith. The union said the company declared a dispute with the CCMA prematurely, allegedly recruited temporary workers to undermine negotiations, and reduced flights not for seasonal reasons but as a calculated move.

SACCA claimed that of 182 scheduled flights, 70 were cancelled, which represents 38 per cent, and that replaced crew were inexperienced and poorly trained while earning less. The union also said FlySafair refused to pay legally entitled lunch breaks and instructed crew not to be seen eating on board despite inadequate facilities.

The current dispute follows earlier labour tensions in which FlySafair faced a pilot lockout. Gordon acknowledged that with the airline controlling around two thirds of the domestic market, labour unrest can have national implications. He said the problem that FlySafair faces can quickly become a national problem.