S. African Airways cancels 32 flights as result of strike

South African Airways (SAA) canceled about 32 flights on Wednesday, as the strike continues and negotiations between management and the union failed to reach an agreement.

According to South Africa Cabin Crew Association (Sacca), at least 28 domestic, three regional and one international flight were canceled.

The employees are demanding meal allowance of 170 U.S. dollars from 131 dollars a day when traveling overseas, which they claim has been stagnant for the last six years.

Disgruntled and confused travelers expressed their disappointment to Xinhua on Wednesday as they accused the "SAA management of not making alternative flights and failure to adequately communicate with customers."

Several flights have been delayed, while the strike continues.

A married couple traveling to Mauritius told Xinhua at the SAA terminal that, they were delayed in the morning of Wednesday.

"I would appreciate if the SAA can refund us for the hotel accommodation," he said. The couple also complained that because of the delays it was difficulty for them to have a connecting flight while in Mauritius.

At the time of going to press, it could not be established how the travelers will be compensated.

"I can confirm that some travelers are likely to be affected, that is so unfortunate," Sacca's deputy president Christopher Shabangu told Xinhua in a telephone interview.

"The money is so little and we had no choice but to strike," he added.

SAA said it was making frantic efforts to resolve the demonstration amicably and so soon.

According to the SAA website, passengers booked to travel with SAA were advised that the airline's cabin crew were on strike and picketing outside the SAA offices at OR Tambo International Airport.

"SAA regrets the inconvenience to all its customers and is exploring ways in conjunction with its partners to facilitate the accommodation of its passengers on later flights or on partner flights," said SAA in a press statement on Wednesday. Endit