The Freetown International Airport (FNA) has been thrown into disarray as over a hundred aviation staff have initiated a strike action in protest against perceived unfair salary disparities and inadequate working conditions. This move has resulted in significant flight delays and disruptions, affecting both airport operations and passengers.

The crux of the matter lies in the glaring wage gap between local and international staff members. While reports indicate that local employees receive a meager salary of $65 per month, their international counterparts reportedly earn a substantial $12,000 monthly. This stark contrast in compensation has fueled discontent among the workforce, prompting them to demand fairer remuneration and improved working conditions.

The strike commenced on Sunday evening, with aviation personnel vacating their posts en masse, leading to operational challenges and delays at the airport. The striking workers have issued a deadline to airport management, setting Tuesday as the ultimatum for addressing their grievances. Among their key demands is an increase in salaries and allowances, particularly highlighting the inadequacy of the current house allowance of Le250,000 per month.

Efforts to resolve the dispute through dialogue have been hindered by the lack of tangible progress in negotiations between the staff and management. Interestingly, the timing of the strike coincides with the visit of Juana Flower, representing the Westminster Company, to the country. During interactions with airport staff, Flower reportedly cautioned against disruptive actions and cautioned against communication through WhatsApp forums.

Meanwhile, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has been implicated in efforts to safeguard the government's interests amidst the labor unrest. Allegedly, she has warned of potential terminations for employees deemed to be sabotaging airport operations. The SLCAA, responsible for overseeing international and domestic air transport and cargo services, is tasked with ensuring compliance with civil aviation regulations and international agreements.

The ongoing strike has had tangible repercussions, disrupting airport activities and causing inconvenience for travelers. The aviation staff's demands for equitable compensation and improved working conditions underscore the need for swift resolution to mitigate further disruptions and address legitimate concerns.

In essence, the labor dispute at Freetown International Airport underscores broader issues of income inequality and workplace fairness within the aviation industry. It highlights the importance of addressing systemic disparities and ensuring that workers are adequately compensated for their contributions, thereby fostering a conducive and harmonious work environment.