representatives of the Airline Pilots’ Association of SA (ALPA SA) were also informed that the pilots would be held liable for the repayment of their training bonds.
Not sure I get it, ALPA was informed by whom?
Don't think there is any legal precedent of this. The point here is that the PILOT has NOT defaulted on his contract, the company has. I don't see this ever getting to court.
I think my attitude would be "sue me".