In anticipation of a strike by unions, South African Airways (SAA) has decided to cancel all domestic and international flights for Friday and Saturday.

The airline in a statement apologised to its customers and advised them not to travel to the airports unless they rebook and are issued with a new itinerary.

The South African Cabin Crew Association and National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa in a press conference on Wednesday announced that the airline staff will go on strike starting Friday.

The workers are protesting against the plan announced by SAA to cut more than 900 jobs in order to curb losses.

The airline has clarified that: “Flights operated on partner airlines, including SA Express, Mango, SA Airlink and all codeshare partners, will not be affected.”