South African Airways hit by crippling strike South African Airways workers are embarking on an indefinite strike for higher wages and against the national carrier's overhaul plan, forcing the cash-strapped airline to ground hundreds of flights. The airline, which employs more than 5,000 workers, is one of the biggest in Africa, with a fleet of more than 50 aircrafts providing dozens of domestic, regional and international flights each day. But the company is deep in debt, despite several government bailouts, and has not recorded a profit since 2011. IMAGES of empty SAA check-in counters in Cape Town International Airport AND SOUNDBITES of a striking SAA worker