South African Airways (SAA) has confirmed that the pilots’ strike, which began on 5 December, was suspended on Saturday morning, 7 December.
Initially, the workers asked for a 30% salary increase, which was reduced to 15.7% plus benefits. However, SAA only offered 8.46%, which is said to be backdated to April, the time when the negotiations started.
The strike left several travellers in various airports, especially OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg stranded and frustrated.
SAA STRIKE SUSPENDED
On Saturday, SAA said the resolution followed successful negotiations between SAA Executive Management and the South African Airways Pilots Association (SAAPA).
The national carrier said its management has offered an additional 1% salary increase, resulting in a total salary increase of 9.47% for its pilots.
SAA interim chief executive officer (CEO) Professor John Lamola said as part of the agreement that broke the deadlock in wage negotiations, engagements on a continuous enterprise improvement program will continue over the next eight weeks.
“We are committed to implementing work-life concessions that should enhance the productivity of our world-acclaimed pilots,” Lamola said.
100% FLIGHT SCHEDULE EXPECTED ON SUNDAY
SAA is expected to return to a 100% flight schedule by Sunday, 8 December, with more than 100 pilots returning to their duties by 12:00 on Saturday, 7 December.
SAA also extended its heartfelt gratitude to its customers for their patience, understanding, and support during this period.
Customers are advised to visit the SAA website www.flysaa.com and social media platforms for updates on the SAA flight schedule.
WERE YOU IMPACTED BY THE SAA STRIKE?
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