South African Airways Resolves Disputes with Striking Unions
Following negotiations, South African Airways has resolved its issues with the two striking unions, the South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) and the National Union of Metalworkers South Africa (NUMSA).
Both SACCA and NUMSA have now returned to work after a week of disrupted flight schedules due to the strike that began on November 15th. The unions had demanded a retroactive wage increase of 5.9%, covering the period from April 2019, with payment scheduled for February next year, subject to funding availability. A similar agreement was also made with the National Transport Movement.
In response to the settlement, the unions released a joint statement declaring an end to all strike activities at South African Airways and South African Airways Technical, stating, “We are pleased to announce that we have accepted a wage offer.”
South African Airways has faced financial challenges, receiving bailouts exceeding $1.4 billion from the government in the last three years. Earlier this month, the airline hinted at the possibility of cutting 20% of its workforce to address its financial difficulties.