Hey Chopperpunter,
Sorry for using the F word, but you got me really upset there - I've edited the post to make it a bit friendlier!
I am not trying to slag anyone off - all I am trying to say is that just because a couple of your flights have been delayed and you have been bumped a few times ... etc .... etc ..... you can't just assume that this is because the operator is crap! How would you know?? Just because some other bloke says that this is because of a lack of pilots or because the operator does not give a toss? I don't think so!
Anyway if you believe that BP is looking for another operator because the service is crap - then you are very much mistaken!!!! The only reason they need another operator here in Aberdeen is money! All they want is more competition to drive the prices down to where they were a few years ago (and operators were actually flying for a loss to stay in buisness).
This is fair enough, everyone wants to reduce their costs as much as possible but I can tell you this: There are two loosers in this game.
The first are the employees of the operator (me) who might lose their jobs, pensions, pay rises and above all stability in their lives!
The second are the punters (you)! More competition and therefore lower rates and less money will have the following effect: less pilots engineers ground staff, less spares, smaller facilities and a generally unhappy workforce! I you think that this will lead to an improved service you are very naive.
For you as a punter it would actually be best if CHC retains the contract - you will certainly receive the better service in the long run and i think that a lot of people up here will back me up on this!
Anyway have a nice X-mas and if you are delayed or bumped next time ask the pilot coming down for a pee why, and I am sure he'll be happy to explain!
Woolf