In a significant development for the aviation sector, South African Airways (SAA) has announced that its pilots have officially accepted a revised salary and benefits package, bringing an immediate end to the work-to-rule industrial action that has been in place. This agreement marks the successful conclusion of the 2024 Wage Negotiations for the pilots’ bargaining unit.

Group CEO, Prof M John Lamola, expressed his satisfaction with the pilots’ decision, emphasising their commitment to the airline’s success. “We are pleased to see the pilots recommit to their roles and return to the flight deck, underscoring their dedication to the airline's success over the years to come,” Lamola stated. He further added that this resolution not only benefits the airline but also aligns with the interests of its entire workforce and the thousands of customers who rely on SAA for connectivity across South Africa and beyond.

With the industrial action now resolved, operations at SAA are returning to business as usual. “We remain steadfast in our dedication to operating as a financially responsible and self-sustaining airline that is sensitive to the welfare of all its employees,” Lamola affirmed. The CEO reiterated that the pilots’ recommitment is pivotal to maintaining the momentum of the airline, steering clear of dependency on public funding by fostering a robust and commercially viable foundation.

Each member of the SAA team is recognised as an essential contributor to the airline's success. Lamola’s vision for SAA paints a hopeful future where the airline solidifies its role as a national asset, thereby fostering confidence in its brand. “SAA is on the cusp of a great future and is poised to solidify its role as a national asset, fostering confidence in its brand and contributing to South Africa’s economic growth through improved connectivity, trade, and tourism,” he added.

This invigorated partnership between SAA management and its pilots heralds a new chapter for the airline, one that promises to place customer experience and operational excellence at the forefront of its objectives.

IOL