Travellers at a South African airport on a busy day. Picture: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers
Travellers booked on South African Airways (FlySAA) flights have been urged to take proactive steps to manage their travel plans.
Flight Centre issued a statement calling on affected travellers to contact their travel provider or airline directly for updates, rebooking options, or alternative arrangements.
“Airports are expected to be busier than usual as passengers seek alternatives. Travellers are advised to arrive earlier than usual and remain flexible with their plans,” said the travel management company.
The notice follows the announcement of strike action by FlySAA pilots, set to commence on December 5.
According to FlySAA, the strike action is a result of a deadlock in wage negotiations between SAA and SAA Pilots Association (SAAPA) and the National Transport Movement (NTM) Pilots Forum.
FlySAA management stated that contingency measures are in place to ensure business continuity and accommodate passengers through a limited flight schedule, including re-accommodation on other carriers.
The airline also said that specific details of the limited flight schedule and re-accommodation plans have been communicated to the travel agents and to passengers who have booked directly with SAA either through the Call Centre, GSA, City and Airport Ticketing Offices, flysaa.com and SAA mobile applications.
Flight Centre said that while the strike’s duration remains unclear, this development raises significant concerns about potential disruptions especially during the peak December travel season.
Euan McNeil, Flight Centre South Africa MD, said they are closely monitoring the situation.
“Flight Centre understands the inconvenience and uncertainty caused by the SAA strike, particularly during this critical travel period.
“We are fully focused on helping our customers navigate this situation and will continue to provide regular updates as new information becomes available,” said McNeil.
According to the travel company, the strike will affect all SAA-operated flights on major domestic and regional routes including:
The travel management company also noted that partner airline operations, including codeshare flights and Star Alliance partner services, will continue to operate as scheduled.