SAA Pilots’ Strike Suspended After Successful Negotiations
Johannesburg – SOUTH African Airways (SAA) announced this morning that the pilots’ strike, which began on 5 December 2024, has been suspended, following successful negotiations between the airline’s Executive Management and the South African Airways Pilots Association (SAAPA). The strike, which caused disruptions to SAA’s flight schedule, is now resolved, with an agreement in place to address pilots’ wage demands.
As part of the agreement, SAA management has offered an additional 1% salary increase, bringing the total salary increase for pilots to 9.47%.
Professor Lamola, a key figure in the negotiations, emphasized the importance of this deal, stating, “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.”
The airline confirmed that more than 100 pilots will return to duty today, 7 December, and expects to fully restore its flight schedule by Sunday, 8 December 2024. The strike’s suspension comes as a relief to thousands of affected passengers, many of whom had their travel plans disrupted during the industrial action.
SAA has expressed its gratitude to customers for their patience and understanding throughout the strike. The airline is urging passengers to visit their site.
