Niël Terblanché
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) has called for a strike at Menzies Aviation at all major airports in South Africa.
The strike started on Monday and is organized in response to Menzies Aviation’s refusal to convert workers from Permanent Hourly Pay (PHP) to Permanent Monthly Pay (PMP), a move that has left many workers frustrated and financially vulnerable.
According to a statement issued by NUMSA, workers on hourly pay face severe challenges.
“These workers are only compensated for the hours they work, meaning any absence due to illness or leave results in lost income. This system forces many employees to work even when they are unwell, as they cannot afford the loss of pay,” the statement reads.
NUMSA has been actively negotiating for a transition to monthly pay to alleviate worker fatigue and provide a more stable income.
The union has proposed a minimum of 195 working hours per month across all airports. However, Menzies Aviation has countered with a proposal of 165 hours per month for all airports, except OR Tambo, where they suggest 195 hours. NUMSA has rejected this offer, labelling it a “divide and rule” tactic designed to create inequality among workers.
NUMSA has reported instances of management attempting to intimidate workers to deter them from participating in the strike which added to the tension.
The union warned Menzies Aviation that striking is a constitutional right of workers and management has no authority to prevent it.
Menzies Aviation, responsible for ramp and baggage handling as well as passenger check-ins for airlines such as SafAir, Qatar, Qantas, and Cathay Pacific, is expected to face significant operational disruptions due to the strike.
Workers from Cape Town, East London, Port Elizabeth, King Shaka, and OR Tambo airports will be participating in the industrial action.
