Unable to attract qualified applicants?
I have been reading this thread with some interest. In Norway CHC HS have not problems attracting qualified applicants. The normal minimum level of qualification is 1.000 flight hours in helicopters, including the ATPL H theory exam passed.
The background of our applicants is varied, with a mix of military and civilian from within the EU/EEA. Flight hours typically ranging from 1.000-2.500hrs. In some isolated (2-3) instances HS have accepted applicants with 700-800hrs.
HS have hired 28 pilots the last 1 1/2 years, and 15 more applicants have been invited to join the company, with a planned recruitment of an additional 70 pilots in the next 27 months.
What might the reason for Bond needing to establish a recruitment regime like the one discussed on this thread? It seems it would involve lots of work and resources for the company?
The main difference between Bond and the other operators in the North Sea is that Bond does not have a recognized pilot union nor a collective labour agreement between BALPA and the company , as far as I know. Many European pilots would consider this a disadvantage, for a number of reasons:
1. The pilot does not have protection in matters of harassment or unfair delays in upgrade to the position of Commander, unfair change of base, type or operation. Spending money on laywers out of your own wallet is not an option for most people.
2. Terms and condition will change or not change, depending on management desicions, not negotiated agreements. Bond would typically shadow Bristows and CHC Scotia?
Bonding is fun when you get started, but grows old after a few years, so deliberate carefully before signing the dotted line.
How many pilots does Bond plan on recruiting each year through this scheme?