When the WTD 2004 was implemented, Bristow increased the number of crews at each of its SAR bases, passing on the cost to MCA. Certainly before the implementation date, some Bristow SAR crews were above 2000 hrs duty: that included the night standby time, which was counted at half rate (with full approval from the CAA). Stornoway had the greatest problem with hours, as they were called out at night more than the other bases, and when called out, all the night hours have to counted in full.
I take exception to Maxallup-Master's insinuations that Bristow paid lip service to the WTD limits. After the problem was pointed out to the management by the BALPA company council, the extra crews were found and NO-ONE exceeded the limits. At NO time was the SAR service compromised, as it has been this week by CHC. If CHC claim that tis problem has 'just crept up on them', then they are lying. The plain and simple truth of the matter is that CHC knew all about the 2000 hours limit under the WTD when they made their bid for UK SAR some years ago.
And before anyone asks, I was not a SAR driver with Bristow! But why let the truth get in the way of a baseless rumour!
bondu