‘We were shocked’: FlySafair sale sparks union backlash
The FlySafair takeover deal is moving forward, but labour tensions could very well complicate the process. Here's what's happening...
South Africa’s largest airline, FlySafair, has moved to reassure customers, employees and partners that operations will continue as normal following the announcement of its sale, despite criticism from organised labour.
The airline recently confirmed that it has reached a sale agreement with private equity firm Harith General Partners. The transaction will proceed subject to the necessary regulatory approvals.
However, the deal has drawn sharp criticism from the South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA), which says it was not consulted during negotiations.
Cabin crew union ‘shocked’ by FlySafair announcement
Speaking to 702, SACCA president Christopher Shabangu said the union only became aware of a formal agreement when the news was publicly announced.
While the union knew the airline was up for sale, Shabangu said it had not been informed that negotiations had concluded.
“We were shocked when we heard the news, so we’re quite disappointed that they decided not to involve stakeholders like us,” he said.
He argued that excluding the union from discussions effectively excludes workers from decisions that could significantly affect their livelihoods.
“If they are excluding the union in this case, they are excluding the workers.” Shabangu said.
Concerns over employee impact
Shabangu said it is difficult for SACCA to support the transaction without clarity on how the change in ownership will affect employees.
According to the union, it would have been appropriate for the incoming shareholders to engage with labour representatives early in the process to provide assurances and outline their plans for the airline’s workforce.
“We can’t work like this as a union; we have to have some assurances,” Shabangu said.
He emphasised that SACCA is not seeking to block the transaction outright but wants transparency regarding the buyer’s intentions.
The sale, though, remains subject to regulatory approvals, including scrutiny by the Competition Commission.
Shabangu said SACCA intends to approach regulators to seek clarity and potentially ensure the union’s concerns are formally considered.
“We are not interested in trying to stop the deal in any way, but if it means we object to the sale for clarity from the buyer, we will do so,” he said.
Airline maintains stability
FlySafair has maintained that it remains fully operational and that it is “business as usual” while the regulatory process unfolds.
For passengers, flights continue to operate as scheduled.
For employees, however, the coming months may determine what the airline’s next chapter under new ownership will look like, and whether labour concerns are addressed before the deal is finalised.
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