Johannesburg, Thursday 18 April 2019: Comair has welcomed a Labour Court temporary interdict which requires striking NUMSA ground staff to return to work.

The Labour Court reserved judgement in the case and interdicted the strike, which began at 13:00 today, from continuing until it reached a final judgement.

Wrenelle Stander, Comair’s Executive Director – Airline Division says the company had sought an interdict to ensure its customers reached their destinations over Easter.

“We value our employees and respect their right to strike but would always prefer to reach a mutually acceptable solution. We will continue to engage the union.”

Comair had put comprehensive contingency plans in place in case the strike had gone ahead. These included employees from around the business volunteering to assist at airports, pro-actively contacting customers to facilitate check-in and providing additional fast-bag-drop counters.

Stander says that although the strike cannot go ahead, the Easter weekend is always a busy time to travel.

“As always over a holiday weekend we’d encourage customers to check-in online or at the airport kiosks and use the dedicated fast-bag drops.”

Comair’s call centre will be open all weekend and customers with urgent enquiries can call 011 921 0222 for British Airways or 086 158 5852 for kulula.