Camair-Co Pilots Threaten Strike: Salary and Benefits Disputes Undermine Airline Stability

According to EcoMatin, the pilots of Camair-Co are voicing three primary grievances. Firstly, they seek an overhaul in salary structure, arguing for compensation based on their total service time rather than just flight hours. Secondly, there is frustration over perceived preferential treatment of military pilots, who are alleged to receive better benefits and hold more significant responsibilities. Lastly, the pilots express dissatisfaction with what they see as a lack of strategic direction within the company.

In response, a source familiar with the issue challenges these claims. The source contends that salary issues should not be a point of contention, as the payment structure is reportedly aligned with company standards and reforms. Historically, pilots were paid based on their presence at work, whether or not they flew, which could result in higher salaries during periods with fewer flights. However, the current system pays pilots based on their actual flight hours, alongside a base salary, and the source emphasizes that salary delays have been eliminated under the current management.

Regarding the alleged favoritism towards military pilots, the source clarifies that these pilots are not new recruits but have been with the company since 2012 to address the global shortage of aviation professionals. Additionally, the source argues that the company does have a strategic vision, highlighted by recent announcements of new aircraft acquisitions and the imminent return of a second Boeing 737-700 from maintenance with Ethiopian Airlines. This is expected to bolster the airline’s current fleet of six aircraft.

Camair-Co has faced financial difficulties since its inception in 2011. A restructuring plan, initiated by a presidential directive on July 14, 2020, tasked the Prime Minister, along with the Ministers of Transport, Finance, and Labor, as well as the Cameroon Civil Aviation Authority (CCAA), with developing a strategy for the airline’s revival and eventual privatization. The plan involves opening 51% of the company’s capital to a strategic private partner. However, this restructuring remains pending after four years of anticipation.

The potential strike by Camair-Co pilots could further complicate the airline’s efforts to stabilize and expand its operations. As the situation develops, the airline’s ability to maintain its services and implement its strategic plans will be closely watched.