With its international and some regional flights back in operation, South African Airways acting chief executive Zuks Ramasia has said the airline is on the road to operational recovery following recent cancellations.
In a statement, Ramasia thanked those employees who have not joined the industrial action.
He said: “We applaud our committed employees for understanding that the airline cannot afford salary increases at present, because of the financial difficulties we are facing.
The National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa (NUMSA) and South African Airways Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) are demanding a wage increase of 8%, whilst the company will only be in a position to pay 5.9% in March 2020, assuming funds are available at that time.
"We call on all our employees to return to work for the sake of our customers and the company.
"After all, our customers contribute to our salaries and it is only through their confidence and custom that we can secure the future for SAA and ensure our essential contribution to the country’s economy.
"We are also very mindful of the contribution made by taxpayers to our sustainability."
In a recent media conference, SAA management explained the state of negotiations with unions, the ’no-work, no-pay’ principle; and confirmed SAA’s continued commitment to safety.
“SAA would like to record its appreciation to those employees that have decided to return to work, despite receiving threats and intimidation from the unions. It is clear and encouraging that many of our employees are increasingly determined to put our customers first,” said Ramasia.
All flights to the airline’s eight international destinations are now operating as usual and on an ongoing basis.
Today SAA is resuming flights to six destinations on the African continent, namely Accra,Lagos, Lusaka, Maputo, Windhoek and Harare.