After being in business rescue for more than a year, South African Airways [SAA] has emerged successfully from the process and is now operational both locally and regionally.
During the hiatus SAA consulted widely with all stakeholders including staff associations and unions and is confident that all new agreements reached with parties either in a collective or individual capacity were negotiated fairly and equitably.
While SAA recognises and respects the rights of people to protest, the carrier is not able to revert to prior agreements reached before business rescue.
SAA notes the protest action by SACAA on a dispute with regards to terms and conditions of employment. This is a peaceful march between 09h00 and 11h00 today, 12 October 2021 at SAA’s Head office in Johannesburg.
SAA CEO, Thomas Kgokolo, spent a lot of time with staffing groups prior to restart and recognises the hard work and dedication that cabin crew members have shown in the time leading to the carrier’s relaunch and thanks staff in this respect. The airline looks forward to positive and strengthening relationship with the SACCA and is always open to constructive dialogue.
SAA assures its customers that business continues unhindered and operational schedules are unaffected by this protest.
By Ukeme Sunday Bassey