Global aviation services company, Menzies Aviation, has allayed fears of disruption to flights during an “indefinite” NUMSA strike that started yesterday (Monday, July 15) at five Acsa airports, including OR Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport and King Shaka International Airport.
NUMSA is the largest metal worker trade union in South Africa.
Charles Wyley, EVP Middle East, Africa & Asia, Menzies Aviation, told Travel News: “We are continuing discussions with Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) to ensure that there is minimal disruption. Our contingency planning will ensure our airline partners and passengers are not disrupted. Currently all our customer flights are operating as per their published schedules with minimal impact.”
According to NUMSA General Secretary, Irvin Jim, union members embarked on the strike to address what he said was Menzies Aviation management’s refusal to convert workers on permanent hourly pay to permanent monthly pay.
“This situation has a negative impact on workers, because if you are on hourly pay, it means you can never be sick. Workers are paid for the hours they work and if they are sick or on leave for any reason, they do not get paid,” Jim explained.
NUMSA has warned that this is an “indefinite strike” until all its demands are met.
Wyley noted his disappointment with NUMSA’s decision to undertake industrial action while negotiations were ongoing.
“We call for mediation to achieve a solution for all parties. Sadly, NUMSA has not responded to our latest offer, but we remain committed to seeking a resolution. We have invited NUMSA to return to the table to continue discussions and hope to be able to reach an agreement that is workable for both the business and our employees.”
Not all airlines are affected by the strike, except Menzies’ local and international airline clients who have contracted the aviation company to provide fuel and ground-handling services.
The company also provides passenger check-in services for, amongst others, FlySafair, Qatar Airways, Qantas and Cathay Pacific.
Acsa told Travel News it would be issuing a statement soon.