Airlink has issued an alert stating that flights may be affected should some of its cabin crew members go on strike on Monday (October 16). This comes at the same time as Mango confirms receipt of a strike notice from trade union Solidarity, also due to take place on Monday.
Airlink ceo and md, Rodger Foster said that the airline is committed to open engagement and negotiations in good faith with staff and organised labour representatives, including SATAWU. Adding, “We are putting in place a contingency plan to mitigate the impact of any work-stoppage for our customers and will continue to provide updates to our customers, service providers and industry partners.”
Mango’s acting ceo, Nic Vlok, put forward a similar statement at the weekend, sharing that the airline was still negotiating with the union to reach a settlement, but in the meantime had put contingency plans in place should the strike go ahead.
“On Monday it will be business–almost-as-usual, but some disruptions to schedules and timings may be experienced,” he told eTNW, adding that Mango had made alternative arrangements to place its passengers on SAA and FlySafair services.
Both airlines have said that they will contact effected customers directly.
Airlink advises customers to ensure that the contact details on their bookings are correct so that they can be reached.
Nic told eTNW, “Mango will let passengers know by SMS what their new travel arrangement and times are. Passengers must report as usual to Mango check-in counters and our staff will direct them from there. It may be advisable to arrive a bit earlier than usual, but we will SMS them and direct them accordingly,” he said. Anyone not receiving an SMS should the strike go ahead, should call the Mango call centre: Tel: 086 100 1234.