FlySafair and SACCA Reach Agreement, Ending Cabin Crew Lock-Out in South Africa

Labour Dispute Resolved After Weeks of Negotiations

FlySafair, a prominent low-cost airline in South Africa, and the South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) have successfully concluded a four-year wage agreement, bringing an end to a nearly two-week lock-out of cabin crew members. The resolution, finalized on Thursday, November 13, 2025, follows intensive negotiations mediated by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

The dispute, which began in October 2025, saw SACCA reject FlySafair's initial wage proposals and issue a strike notice. In response, FlySafair initiated an employer-led lock-out on Monday, November 3, 2025, aiming to prevent a full-scale strike and mitigate potential disruptions to its operations and the country's tourism sector.

Background to the Wage Impasse

The conflict stemmed from differing expectations regarding remuneration and working conditions. SACCA, representing approximately 65% of FlySafair's 800 cabin crew members, initially demanded a 13% (some reports indicate 15%) salary increase to address rising living costs. The union also sought improvements in allowances, working conditions, and specific pay structures, including lunch break pay, Sunday pay, maternity leave, and standby compensation.

FlySafair countered with offers ranging from 6% to 6.9% yearly raises over a multi-year period, alongside a guaranteed 7.5% annual bonus, and adjustments to uniform and commission setups. The airline's chief marketing officer, Kirby Gordon, stated that the lock-out was a strategic move to pressure a swift resolution and ensure operational continuity.

Terms of the Breakthrough Agreement

The final agreement reached between FlySafair and SACCA is described as 'materially similar' to the airline's last proposal. Key components of the four-year deal include:

• Annual salary increases ranging between 6% and 6.9% over the agreement's duration.
• A guaranteed annual bonus of 7.5%.
• Enhancements to allowances and commission structures.
• Agreed-upon notch progressions for cabin attendants.
• A daily meal allowance of R30 for operational days.

According to FlySafair, the comprehensive package represents an effective increase of approximately 19% per individual over the four-year period, ensuring labour stability for the cabin crew until 2029.

Operational Impact and Future Outlook

Despite the lock-out, FlySafair maintained that its operations remained fully stable, with no flights cancelled. The airline attributed this to having sufficient crew members willing to work and a pre-planned reduced November schedule for maintenance, coupled with additional staff hires. This contrasts with a previous pilot strike in July 2025, which did result in flight disruptions.

The resolution comes at a critical juncture for South Africa, ahead of the upcoming G20 Summit and the busy festive travel season. FlySafair expressed satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing its commitment to long-term stability and its focus on passengers as it prepares for a period of increased demand.