SAA, pilots wage agreement ‘pivotal’ moment for carrier

SAA announced the end of the “work-to-rule” industrial action by its pilots on Tuesday.

In a statement, the airline confirmed that an agreement had been reached, with pilots accepting the salary and benefits package offered to them. 

The resolution ends disruptions caused by the industrial action, which had impacted the airline’s operations in recent weeks.

SAA welcomed the outcome, emphasizing that the pilots’ decision demonstrated their commitment to the airline’s long-term stability and growth.

“This agreement marks a pivotal moment for SAA,” the airline’s spokesperson Vimla Maistry said. 

“The pilots' decision to accept the offer demonstrates their dedication to the airline’s future, and we look forward to working together to strengthen our operations.”

The work-to-rule action, which saw pilots strictly adhering to their contractual obligations without taking on additional duties, had been a response to prolonged wage negotiations. 

Maistry says the resolution will improve cooperation between management and pilots as the airline continues its recovery efforts.

"SAA has been undergoing a restructuring process in recent years, and securing labour stability is seen as a crucial step toward maintaining operational efficiency and service reliability.

"The airline expressed confidence that the new wage agreement would foster a more collaborative working environment, benefiting both employees and passengers."

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