South African Airways has reached a conditional agreement to end the week-long industrial action initiated by two of the carrier’s unions.
South African Airways has reached a conditional agreement to end the week-long industrial action initiated by two of the carrier’s unions.
Cabin crew association SACCA and the union NUMSA ratified a deal on 21 November, says the airline.
The two sides have agreed to a 5.9% salary rise, backdated to April this year and running to January 2020 – although the carrier says this is “subject to availability of funding”.
SAA says the first six months’ worth of this 10-month payment will be made in March 2020 and the remaining four in April 2020.
It is also deferring the process of discussions regarding possible job cuts with trade unions until the end of January – although the consultation process will continue for SAA management.
The airline has agreed to establish a task force to identify and examine cost-saving initiatives, with a possible attached incentive scheme involving paying part of the saving to staff.
SAA says the unions have agreed to call off the strikes and order personnel to return to work by 23 November. It adds that another union, the NTM, has also signed the wage agreement.
The pact is intended to “recognise the company’s employees” for their “important contributions”, says SAA acting chief Zuks Ramasia.
“This agreement with the unions will help promote [an] atmosphere of positivity, inclusivity and sustainable growth,” she adds.
