South African Airways Technical (SAAT), the maintenance subsidiary of the SAA, has concluded a wage deal with the Aviation Union of Southern Africa (AUSA), which represents a large portion of engineers and technical staff at SAAT. The deal, which was signed on August 28 means that SAAT and the airline will be able to continue with operations with minimal, if any disruptions.

The wage agreement is for a period of one year. The settlement entails 6,5% on total cost to company; 0,5% once-off payment and a further 1% increase for technicians flowing from the previous year’s wage agreement.

The company met with the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) yesterday with the hope of reaching an agreement that would lead to their 752 members returning to their posts. The two parties will meet this afternoon to continue with negotiations. The company reiterates its desire to have all employees back at their posts as soon as possible. Returning to work is also in the interest of the striking employees as the no-work no-pay principle applies. A strike for up to seven days could take employees years to recoup their lost remuneration and may never do so, depending on the settlement increase.

SAA confirms that out of the 47 departures out of OR Tambo International Airport (i.e. between 06h00 and 16h00 on August 28) only two flights were delayed as a direct result of the strike. The two flights were SA064 (Johannesburg to Lusaka) and SA559 (Johannesburg to Durban). The delays were for seven minutes and 14 respectively.

The airline also confirms that it has applied for an interdict which is meant to address unruly, intimidating and unlawful behavior by SATAWU members during picketing contrary to the picketing rules agreed to and the applicable laws. Contrary to assertions by SATAWU, the interdict is not intended to stop the strike as this is a protected strike.