South Africa: South Africa Airways (SAA) extends flight cancelations November 17-18 /update 1

Event

On Saturday, November 16, South African Airways (SAA) announced that all national and regional flights scheduled from Saturday through Monday, November 18, have been canceled due to an ongoing union strike. SAA also said that some international flights are due to resume operations on Sunday, November 17. Around 3000 SAA workers, including cabin crew, ground staff, check-in, and ticket sales staff launched an indefinite strike on Friday, November 15. Flights operated by SAA partner airlines are currently not expected to be affected by the work stoppage. 

Significant flight disruptions are expected over the coming days, including an increased demand for alternative flights. Additional flights may also be canceled over the coming days. SAA has said that customers affected by the cancelations may rebook or receive a full refund for their flight. Further information can be found on the SAA website here.

Context

Labor unions confirmed the strike on November 15 after SAA officials did not meet their salary demands and started consultations for removing over 900 workers. SAA officials have warned that the strike may cause the airline to collapse and threatens all of their jobs and those in related industries. Union leaders are calling for a three-year guarantee of job security and an 8 percent salary increase.

Advice

Potentially impacted travelers are advised to keep abreast of the situation, plan alternative travel arrangements, anticipate heightened demand for other flights, and to contact their airline for additional information.