SAA grounds its domestic, international flights ahead of strike
South African Airways (SAA) has cancelled nearly all its domestic, regional and international flights scheduled for Friday and Saturday.
This after workers belonging to the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) and the SA Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) notified the airline that they will be embarking on strike action on Friday.
The strike is in response to the public carrier's restructuring plans.
SAA said in a statement that it is being proactive as it wants to minimise the impact of disruptions for customers.
"It is expected that the strike would cause maximum disruptions to SAA operations; therefore, in the best interest of protecting our customers and their travel plans, we have taken the decision to cancel all domestic, regional, and international flights."
SAA apologised for the inconvenience and says it will help travellers change their bookings.
"South African Airways apologises for the inconvenience and encourages all customers to visit our website flysaa.com for up to date information. Customers are requested not to travel to their departure airport unless in possession of a rebooked itinerary."
A number of international flights will also take off.
Mango Airlines said it will continue to operate as normal.
"We have contingency plans in place and are ready to activate them should we experience any disruptions to our service during this time."
"All guests should please continue to check with us regarding their flight status whether on our social media or through our call centre," it said in a statement.
The SA Cabin Crew Association wants the entire SAA board to be removed.
The association's president, Zazi Sibanyoni-Mugambi has been briefing the media on their work stoppage.
"We reject the claim made the they board that the strike is intended to collapspe the airline so that it can be placed under liquidation, Workers have been in the forefront of trying to save SAA and make it viable."
"Our members have been fighting against corruption, some were even been fired doing this and yet the same cannot be done for executives and management and the board," she said.
