IOL News reports that Solidarity released a statement on Tuesday explaining why FlySafair pilots have downed their tools – and it's not just about the money.
According to the trade union, improvement in the pilots' working conditions is a central issue. This is set to be tackled when a mediation process between Solidarity and FlySafair’s management takes place on Wednesday under the auspices of the CCMA. "While the pilots are also seeking a reasonable salary increase – including to restore their compensation to pre-COVID-19 levels – improved working conditions are particularly important. A new rostering system, recently implemented unilaterally by FlySafair, has drastically changed the established working conditions of pilots, which have been in place for the past decade. This new schedule impedes adequate rest periods and undermines pilots’ family life," Solidarity indicated. The union’s proposals to achieve a settlement include that pilots would have at least one weekend off within each five-week schedule cycle, as well as two consecutive days off to properly rest and spend quality time with their families. Also, the opportunity should exist for pilots to exchange shifts with colleagues in cases where family responsibilities necessitate such flexibility. If pilots have to fly on their days off, they should be compensated for these days off within the next schedule cycle.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Yasmine Jacobs at IOL News
Get other news reports at the SA LabourNews home page