I just hope that pilots coming to Aberdeen are wise enough to ensure that in the middle / long term pilots’ conditions don’t suffer.
Surely many people will want to enjoy the present level of conditions that pilots enjoy in the North Sea at present. Those conditions were achieved by CHC Scotia and Bristow pilots standing up united in 2001. Also our Norwegian and Danish colleagues played their part. It will be long before we have a similar opportunity in the future.
Now companies and unions are learning to work together. Conflicts sometimes are the order of the day, but that is part of the adaptation process. Sooner rather than later we’ll get a culture where both parties understand how to work together in one common direction while looking after their own interest.
Bond brothers were always anti-union, and the chances are this time they will do their best to prevent their pilots getting unionised. If they succeed, it won’t be long before we start losing terrain again.
So if you want a job in the North Sea and Bond is your option, be aware of the terms and conditions they’re going to offer (watch the space!). If you go for it, make sure that once the group is up and running you get your act together and you don’t jeopardise all the progress that your fellow pilots made for you in 2001.