Solenta forcing pilots to return to Abidjan
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Somewhere South of the Limpopo
Posts: 371
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Methinks a copy of this memo (and the comments on this forum) need to find their way to the offices of DHL Directors.
Maybe, just maybe, said Directors would reconsider the terms of the contract and where the 'blood money' is going...
Quite frankly, another word for the memo is "extortion".
Last I heard, that was illegal.
R
Maybe, just maybe, said Directors would reconsider the terms of the contract and where the 'blood money' is going...
Quite frankly, another word for the memo is "extortion".
Last I heard, that was illegal.
R
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: South Africa
Posts: 97
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
What happened to the memo
Hey Guys, firstly it took a lot of guts to put the memo here, but it was a good choice so that more young pilots get to see what realy happens at these OUTSTANDING contract companies.
BUT WHAT HAPPENED TO THE MEMO!!!!!!!
Surely the moderator did not take it away?
WHY, Freedom of speech to large to handle. WERE you threatened with Legal Action against an "illegal" document?
If you take it off, at least let us know the reasons for this.
Thanks
BUT WHAT HAPPENED TO THE MEMO!!!!!!!
Surely the moderator did not take it away?
WHY, Freedom of speech to large to handle. WERE you threatened with Legal Action against an "illegal" document?
If you take it off, at least let us know the reasons for this.
Thanks
Moderator
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Hilton, Sheraton or Marriott
Posts: 1,817
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The memo was certainly not removed by a mod - whilst it's posting was obviously controversial and such inclusions often result in a knee-jerk reaction from company management I am not aware of any-such complaint in this regard.
If anyone does have a copy of the memo please feel free to repost it - it clearly indicates the pressures under which both employees and their employers themselves face, in conducting business in unstable parts of the world.
4HP
If anyone does have a copy of the memo please feel free to repost it - it clearly indicates the pressures under which both employees and their employers themselves face, in conducting business in unstable parts of the world.
4HP
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: RSA
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Dear Colleagues
Whilst I appreciate some of the various concerns that have been raised with regard to the above
matter, we cannot lose sight of the fact that we are running a business at Solenta Aviation.
This requires that the management team and I have to make decisions that ensure that we meet
our contractual obligations and, thereby, decisions that ensure the retention of current and future
aircraft contracts, the employment of all staff including yourselves and the going concern of Solenta
Aviation. In this decision making, at no time would we consciously make decisions that directly and
intentionally prejudiced your safety and well being.
During the term of our operation in Ivory Coast, there has never there been total stability and
tranquillity, so it is difficult to define a precise measure of “normality”. The first of the “unrests”
happened several years ago under Rossair ATR42 and Solenta C208B days. Since then we have
operated successfully from ABJ for several years. So many different sources on the ABJ situation
offer their own opinions, often differing, depending on their intended audience.
We accept that the unrest that occurred in Ivory Coast in early November 2004 cannot be fully
understood by anyone who was not there and who did not personally experience what was endured
by so many of our staff. However, we do believe that the situation has returned to “normality” and
that businesses can safely deploy staff there and continue business in the interim, indefinitely until a
new situation may arise, whenever this might be. Several businesses are already operating,
including DHL, our client. In addition, several new safety measures have been activated as
previously explained to prevent, protect and mitigate a similar situation from reoccurring. These will
be in place and are planned to be fully complete and operational by 31 January 2005.
Fifty percent (50%) of our ATR42 contracts are based in ABJ and are required to operate from
there. This similarly means that the same 50% of all our crews and engineers employed for the
ATR42’s are employed specifically to fly and service these same aircraft and contracts.
In light of this, as a company, we will be returning to operate out of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, effective
3rd January 2005. All employees – crew, engineers and support staff – are required to be available
to report to duty, as rostered and contracted, on this date. No exceptions can or will be made. Should you therefore personally decide not to be available and accepting of the terms of your
employment contract to report to duty as rostered and required operationally, you need to return to
Johannesburg on this same date (or remain in Johannesburg, if currently out of the field).
We will unfortunately deem you to be unwilling to continue with the work you were employed to do
and therefore you will be in breech of your employment conditions and employee code of conduct.
We will have no alternative but to seek suitable replacement employees accordingly with immediate
effect.
I believe all our staff to be hard working, loyal, and trustworthy employees, who are committed to
this company and its success, and willing to contribute at all times to the best of their ability. That
said there will be times when our objectives and requirements might diverge, and unfortunately this
might be one of those times. I sincerely hope not, however, for the majority of you and Solenta
Aviation.
In light of the above, this memo must not be read as a threat or a plea from our side. This is a
difficult position for all of us and we would rarely otherwise find ourselves in this situation of
enforcement of contractual terms – as employee to employer, or employer to employee.
I understand that a number of you might, at the end of your own deliberations, decide that you are
still not prepared to return to ABJ. Operationally we will be affected but we will need to ride the
storm none the less.
This is a difficult position to enforce but I am left with no alternative. Whilst I understand and
empathise with your personal views and concerns, the company can no longer accommodate and
change the rostering, routes or permanent bases, to suit individual specific requirements. I believe
we have been accommodating, understanding and patient for as long as practically possible.
For those crew and engineers already committed to returning on 3rd January 2005, I thank you for
your cooperation and trust. For those who decide not to move, we respect this decision and trust
that you respect ours.
This memo supercedes all previous correspondence, positions and commitments concerning this
matter from the company and its directors.
Yours faithfully
MARK HURST
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Whilst I appreciate some of the various concerns that have been raised with regard to the above
matter, we cannot lose sight of the fact that we are running a business at Solenta Aviation.
This requires that the management team and I have to make decisions that ensure that we meet
our contractual obligations and, thereby, decisions that ensure the retention of current and future
aircraft contracts, the employment of all staff including yourselves and the going concern of Solenta
Aviation. In this decision making, at no time would we consciously make decisions that directly and
intentionally prejudiced your safety and well being.
During the term of our operation in Ivory Coast, there has never there been total stability and
tranquillity, so it is difficult to define a precise measure of “normality”. The first of the “unrests”
happened several years ago under Rossair ATR42 and Solenta C208B days. Since then we have
operated successfully from ABJ for several years. So many different sources on the ABJ situation
offer their own opinions, often differing, depending on their intended audience.
We accept that the unrest that occurred in Ivory Coast in early November 2004 cannot be fully
understood by anyone who was not there and who did not personally experience what was endured
by so many of our staff. However, we do believe that the situation has returned to “normality” and
that businesses can safely deploy staff there and continue business in the interim, indefinitely until a
new situation may arise, whenever this might be. Several businesses are already operating,
including DHL, our client. In addition, several new safety measures have been activated as
previously explained to prevent, protect and mitigate a similar situation from reoccurring. These will
be in place and are planned to be fully complete and operational by 31 January 2005.
Fifty percent (50%) of our ATR42 contracts are based in ABJ and are required to operate from
there. This similarly means that the same 50% of all our crews and engineers employed for the
ATR42’s are employed specifically to fly and service these same aircraft and contracts.
In light of this, as a company, we will be returning to operate out of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, effective
3rd January 2005. All employees – crew, engineers and support staff – are required to be available
to report to duty, as rostered and contracted, on this date. No exceptions can or will be made. Should you therefore personally decide not to be available and accepting of the terms of your
employment contract to report to duty as rostered and required operationally, you need to return to
Johannesburg on this same date (or remain in Johannesburg, if currently out of the field).
We will unfortunately deem you to be unwilling to continue with the work you were employed to do
and therefore you will be in breech of your employment conditions and employee code of conduct.
We will have no alternative but to seek suitable replacement employees accordingly with immediate
effect.
I believe all our staff to be hard working, loyal, and trustworthy employees, who are committed to
this company and its success, and willing to contribute at all times to the best of their ability. That
said there will be times when our objectives and requirements might diverge, and unfortunately this
might be one of those times. I sincerely hope not, however, for the majority of you and Solenta
Aviation.
In light of the above, this memo must not be read as a threat or a plea from our side. This is a
difficult position for all of us and we would rarely otherwise find ourselves in this situation of
enforcement of contractual terms – as employee to employer, or employer to employee.
I understand that a number of you might, at the end of your own deliberations, decide that you are
still not prepared to return to ABJ. Operationally we will be affected but we will need to ride the
storm none the less.
This is a difficult position to enforce but I am left with no alternative. Whilst I understand and
empathise with your personal views and concerns, the company can no longer accommodate and
change the rostering, routes or permanent bases, to suit individual specific requirements. I believe
we have been accommodating, understanding and patient for as long as practically possible.
For those crew and engineers already committed to returning on 3rd January 2005, I thank you for
your cooperation and trust. For those who decide not to move, we respect this decision and trust
that you respect ours.
This memo supercedes all previous correspondence, positions and commitments concerning this
matter from the company and its directors.
Yours faithfully
MARK HURST
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Gauteng
Posts: 57
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My two cents worth... some aspects of the BCEA refers to:
RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES
Employer duties
The duties of the employer arising out of the common law contract of employment include:
Ø To take reasonable precautions to provide a safe and healthy working environment. If the employer does not take these reasonable precautions, the business could be sued for damages by an employee who suffers injury or illness as a result of such failure.
Employee Duties
The employee’s duties, in return for the rights achieved from the employer, are as follows:
Ø To tender full performance. This means that the employee should arrive on time for the start of his shift and work faithfully and diligently for the duration of that shift. Should the employee only tender partial performance, the commercial rationale in the contract of employment, which the employer expected, becomes diluted.
2. SOUTH AFRICA’S LABOUR LEGISLATION AND THE RIGHTS OF WORKERS
Below is a broad range of rights conferred to workers through legislation and as defined by the International Labour Organisation.
These rights are described by the Department of Labour as follows:
Ø The right to negotiate and bargain collectively
Ø The right to protection of Safety and Health
Ø The right to security in the event of injury on duty
Ø The right to job security and protection against unfair labour practices
The above I believe highlights some important aspects...
One, that Solenta may in fact be allowed to send pilots there - for the good of Solenta - do they actually have a choice????
Two, that (with all respect), maybe Solenta's should post some information on the security provided (if indeed there is any) by Solenta to ensure safe working environment. I know that a South African company has been contracted to provide some - what is the extent?
Three... Solenta may be liable for any consequences of injury or death as a result of sending their pilots there. I submit pilots have a right to know details of the insurance and if indeed the country is covered. If not, most courts would surely feel a pang of pity for the pilot and would ask the question, "if your insurance wont cover you, how can you expect your pilots to go in good faith"!
Four... just on the first three points alone, it seems that more communication is required here. It seems that the situation has been handled badly and that there should be more bilateral communiation. In all experience surely there is nothing that cant be resolved by communication - BOTH SIDES! Maybe everyone is in the wrong here. Pilot and company, but either way, a company has to generate income, and based on the fact that it is DHL - big client - must have pressure from them! DHL should surely get involved and take responsibility also, not only Solenta!!! Pilots have a right to safety and security. It makes sense for Solenta to use the crew already there, and it must be costing having aircraft sitting... plus jobs are scarce and there are company's out there alot worse to work for than Solenta surely?
On talking to one of the Directors of Solenta, he took time to explain security issues, insurance issues, and emphasised to me that he was unhappy to hear of complaints since he is largely unaware of any...! Just repeating what I heard, thats all!!! Having said that... wouldnt like to get a letter from my MD like that!!!
RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES
Employer duties
The duties of the employer arising out of the common law contract of employment include:
Ø To take reasonable precautions to provide a safe and healthy working environment. If the employer does not take these reasonable precautions, the business could be sued for damages by an employee who suffers injury or illness as a result of such failure.
Employee Duties
The employee’s duties, in return for the rights achieved from the employer, are as follows:
Ø To tender full performance. This means that the employee should arrive on time for the start of his shift and work faithfully and diligently for the duration of that shift. Should the employee only tender partial performance, the commercial rationale in the contract of employment, which the employer expected, becomes diluted.
2. SOUTH AFRICA’S LABOUR LEGISLATION AND THE RIGHTS OF WORKERS
Below is a broad range of rights conferred to workers through legislation and as defined by the International Labour Organisation.
These rights are described by the Department of Labour as follows:
Ø The right to negotiate and bargain collectively
Ø The right to protection of Safety and Health
Ø The right to security in the event of injury on duty
Ø The right to job security and protection against unfair labour practices
The above I believe highlights some important aspects...
One, that Solenta may in fact be allowed to send pilots there - for the good of Solenta - do they actually have a choice????
Two, that (with all respect), maybe Solenta's should post some information on the security provided (if indeed there is any) by Solenta to ensure safe working environment. I know that a South African company has been contracted to provide some - what is the extent?
Three... Solenta may be liable for any consequences of injury or death as a result of sending their pilots there. I submit pilots have a right to know details of the insurance and if indeed the country is covered. If not, most courts would surely feel a pang of pity for the pilot and would ask the question, "if your insurance wont cover you, how can you expect your pilots to go in good faith"!
Four... just on the first three points alone, it seems that more communication is required here. It seems that the situation has been handled badly and that there should be more bilateral communiation. In all experience surely there is nothing that cant be resolved by communication - BOTH SIDES! Maybe everyone is in the wrong here. Pilot and company, but either way, a company has to generate income, and based on the fact that it is DHL - big client - must have pressure from them! DHL should surely get involved and take responsibility also, not only Solenta!!! Pilots have a right to safety and security. It makes sense for Solenta to use the crew already there, and it must be costing having aircraft sitting... plus jobs are scarce and there are company's out there alot worse to work for than Solenta surely?
On talking to one of the Directors of Solenta, he took time to explain security issues, insurance issues, and emphasised to me that he was unhappy to hear of complaints since he is largely unaware of any...! Just repeating what I heard, thats all!!! Having said that... wouldnt like to get a letter from my MD like that!!!
THUNDERTAILED
Join Date: Nov 1999
Location: L200
Posts: 325
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
plus jobs are scarce and there are company's out there alot worse to work for than Solenta surely?
Umm, probably not. How low can you go? We're talking dachshund here already.
Umm, probably not. How low can you go? We're talking dachshund here already.
Join Date: May 2001
Location: A very Dark Place
Posts: 153
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Clearly Mark Hurst's first language is not English but, if that is the best he can come up with, the old maxim should be noted: "He who writes English like a child should be treated like a child".
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: Kaya Lalapanzi
Posts: 115
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
And Gerund your post is clearly 'written like a child'.
At the end of the day we all would like some sort of opportunity. Be it Solenta or not, at least that is a foot in the door - funny how once we have a foot in we get those 'not willing' shouting the odds. As Sef Efricans we only have ourselves to blame for not making the best of bad situations to create new ones. I thought myself to be lucky when availed with similar opportunities - but those who have, realise that in aviation you make your own luck - Happy Landings and good luck!!
At the end of the day we all would like some sort of opportunity. Be it Solenta or not, at least that is a foot in the door - funny how once we have a foot in we get those 'not willing' shouting the odds. As Sef Efricans we only have ourselves to blame for not making the best of bad situations to create new ones. I thought myself to be lucky when availed with similar opportunities - but those who have, realise that in aviation you make your own luck - Happy Landings and good luck!!
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: Africa somewhere. Baggage somewhere else...
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Once again I am amazed at how many people focus on the negative.
Just imagine Solenta was not there, how many aspiring young pilots would not get their first jobs, often their first chance to fly twins, too. As such Solenta adds great value to general aviation.
Sure, issues and concerns must be addressed, and openly communicated, which is something between the aircrew (and deployed technical crew, I would imagine), but that the crew and management must take up with one another, and is not for open public debate.
No, I don't fly for Solenta, but I have on occasion gave instruction on the C208 there, and I must just add that the condition of their aircraft far exceeds the average which I have experienced. In my opinion they are a very professional outfit, that has to show a profit at the end of the day in order to survive. Economics 101.
Request thus, anything you tackle, make the best of it, take the best of experience and put the best of you into it!!!
Happy flying!!!
Just imagine Solenta was not there, how many aspiring young pilots would not get their first jobs, often their first chance to fly twins, too. As such Solenta adds great value to general aviation.
Sure, issues and concerns must be addressed, and openly communicated, which is something between the aircrew (and deployed technical crew, I would imagine), but that the crew and management must take up with one another, and is not for open public debate.
No, I don't fly for Solenta, but I have on occasion gave instruction on the C208 there, and I must just add that the condition of their aircraft far exceeds the average which I have experienced. In my opinion they are a very professional outfit, that has to show a profit at the end of the day in order to survive. Economics 101.
Request thus, anything you tackle, make the best of it, take the best of experience and put the best of you into it!!!
Happy flying!!!
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Pluto
Posts: 31
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I was called by them people at dhl for an interview. It was for a position as FO with an upgrade to CPT on 727 within 3 months. I was very keen { not for the money but for the upgrade}. I was ready to resign from my present employer and my bags were almost packed. I was supposed to start in Feb but I still have heard nothing. I phoned DHL here in JHB and Solenta and no one will return my calls. I was promised an employment contract etc and have recieved zip. So to the DHL and Solenta guys Thanks but No thanks. I will stay were I am.
After reading this thread mabe it is a blessing in disguise.
cm
After reading this thread mabe it is a blessing in disguise.
cm
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: Johannesburg
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Pointer41 - It has obviously been a while since you have visited Solenta for some instruction, or your view is blatantly inaccurate. Compared to other operators out there the condition of their aircraft is absolutely horrendous. The people in key positions don't give a damn because at the end of the day, all they are concerned with is that A-average in economics 101. The key professional facet in the whole operations is the pilots - from the Caravan pool to the ATR pool.
As far as Solenta adding great value to general aviation; Bull S***. There are many more operators out there who take on low time guys and allow them to progress in their careers. Take Naturelink, FederalAir, RossAir, Out of the Blue Safaris, CFA Charters, Fugro, King Air Services and even NAC for example. And then, the first condition of employment with SOLENTA is that the guy forks out thousands of rands and does his rating WITH them.
But I guess that's where you fit in right? Greasing of the palms...
As far as Solenta adding great value to general aviation; Bull S***. There are many more operators out there who take on low time guys and allow them to progress in their careers. Take Naturelink, FederalAir, RossAir, Out of the Blue Safaris, CFA Charters, Fugro, King Air Services and even NAC for example. And then, the first condition of employment with SOLENTA is that the guy forks out thousands of rands and does his rating WITH them.
But I guess that's where you fit in right? Greasing of the palms...
Last edited by RudeAwakening; 9th Jan 2005 at 17:37.
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: South Africa
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Sorry to jump in so late, but to go back to Bakela's question about ALPA's stance - ALPA's members are ALL very important to it. Unfortunately communication is a 2-way street .....
From what could be gathered, ALPA wanted to instruct its' attorneys to take whatever action is necessary to safeguard members' rights and jobs if they refuse to go Abidjan. The ALPA members that are with Solenta then decided not to go ahead as they did not want to make their identities known to management. ALPA cannot go ahead with action if the members want to stay anonymous.
Sad.
From what could be gathered, ALPA wanted to instruct its' attorneys to take whatever action is necessary to safeguard members' rights and jobs if they refuse to go Abidjan. The ALPA members that are with Solenta then decided not to go ahead as they did not want to make their identities known to management. ALPA cannot go ahead with action if the members want to stay anonymous.
Sad.
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: LA
Age: 49
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
From what I could gather, less than 4 of Solenta pilots are members of ALPA. As the battle would have been fought for the cause of all pilot's, and the fact that only members could be represented (needles to say), the exposure and risk to those who belonged to ALPA was quite great. Solenta Management would also, without a doubt, have severely victimised those who made their identities known. Maybe they would not have lost their jobs but they would surely have been penalised in various concocted ways.
I have spoken to some of my ex colleagues who are still with Solenta and from what they have said, ALPA's response to the matter was almost immediate. We commend ALPA for the swift response they initiated and the level of professionalism of the individuals working there. It is however amazing that there are so many professional pilots in South Africa who are still not members of ALPA. I believe they are the most reliable insurance any pilot can assign to his license and job security.
I have spoken to some of my ex colleagues who are still with Solenta and from what they have said, ALPA's response to the matter was almost immediate. We commend ALPA for the swift response they initiated and the level of professionalism of the individuals working there. It is however amazing that there are so many professional pilots in South Africa who are still not members of ALPA. I believe they are the most reliable insurance any pilot can assign to his license and job security.
Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: South Africa
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Dear All,
Once again sad that the only guys trying to provide jobs to the industry get slashed all the time. What amazes me is that all the other companies that the guys mention that is so great operate in Iraq/Sudan/Afghanistan etc etc. and the guys have an issue going back to ABJ....... ? I am falling off my chair laughing at this. Please someone explain this to me !!!!
We just for info placed 3 x 1900D on contract in Afghanistan and Sierra Leone with unbelievable great crew.Guys that did not ask for more money.
We have in ABJ as a company made sure that it is 100% safe to go back, the company also lost serious money and had to revamp the crew house all brand new now.Surely we would not do this if we were to loose it again. Unlike in an earlier posting all the personal losses of all the crew has been paid out, yes it took a while but not one of them lost a cent and are new equiped with brand new headsets,flightbags,cd,PC,clothing etc etc.
A complete security solution with evac plans will be in place no later than the end of Jan by Securicor, yes the same guys that support the Bulls.We have made contact with the UN security guys that give us daily security briefings.The house will be secured and armed guards are now at the house 24/7.Myself and the MD will be in ABJ by Wednesday for full accesment and to make sure we are happy with the arrangements in place and that our crew are safe.
Further to this we have confirmed that are crew are all medically covered, we have confirmation from Workmans compensation that they will cover the crew for accidents/incidents and death or injury in all cases and we also have DHL life cover for all our crews. Show me any other comapny at present that cover their crew on their insurance.
Our crew have moved back and for this we are very greatful and will always be, to all the guys there MOERSE THANKS !!!
I hope he forgive me but I have quoted our Snr pilot on a mail send to us.
Our crew are happy this is a good company except for the 3/4 negative guys on this site but I guess they will die negative.
Further more we increased salaries in Sept and paid all the guys a bonus in Dec 04. Any other companies that did this ???
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hi Rike,
today has been a very busy day, with settling and what
not but I will be sending you more regular updates
from now on.
It is OPS normal in ABJ and we are all very impressed
with the work that has been done at the crew house.
I'd like to express special thanks to Agathe, Nestor
and all the house staff for their fantastic job as
well as their continued support: every request we've
had has been met with a smile and immediate response:
thank you!
I am flying tonight but will arrange to meet Mr
Bellafdil tomorrow. As for the SA embassy, I will wait
for feedback from DHL.
Thanks for the DSTV, crew cards and charts.
I have made a new roster (yet again) and it caters for
the LBV pilots not coming back tomorrow just in case.
No other issues I can think of for the moment but will
let you know!
Cheers for now,
Ali
Once again sad that the only guys trying to provide jobs to the industry get slashed all the time. What amazes me is that all the other companies that the guys mention that is so great operate in Iraq/Sudan/Afghanistan etc etc. and the guys have an issue going back to ABJ....... ? I am falling off my chair laughing at this. Please someone explain this to me !!!!
We just for info placed 3 x 1900D on contract in Afghanistan and Sierra Leone with unbelievable great crew.Guys that did not ask for more money.
We have in ABJ as a company made sure that it is 100% safe to go back, the company also lost serious money and had to revamp the crew house all brand new now.Surely we would not do this if we were to loose it again. Unlike in an earlier posting all the personal losses of all the crew has been paid out, yes it took a while but not one of them lost a cent and are new equiped with brand new headsets,flightbags,cd,PC,clothing etc etc.
A complete security solution with evac plans will be in place no later than the end of Jan by Securicor, yes the same guys that support the Bulls.We have made contact with the UN security guys that give us daily security briefings.The house will be secured and armed guards are now at the house 24/7.Myself and the MD will be in ABJ by Wednesday for full accesment and to make sure we are happy with the arrangements in place and that our crew are safe.
Further to this we have confirmed that are crew are all medically covered, we have confirmation from Workmans compensation that they will cover the crew for accidents/incidents and death or injury in all cases and we also have DHL life cover for all our crews. Show me any other comapny at present that cover their crew on their insurance.
Our crew have moved back and for this we are very greatful and will always be, to all the guys there MOERSE THANKS !!!
I hope he forgive me but I have quoted our Snr pilot on a mail send to us.
Our crew are happy this is a good company except for the 3/4 negative guys on this site but I guess they will die negative.
Further more we increased salaries in Sept and paid all the guys a bonus in Dec 04. Any other companies that did this ???
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hi Rike,
today has been a very busy day, with settling and what
not but I will be sending you more regular updates
from now on.
It is OPS normal in ABJ and we are all very impressed
with the work that has been done at the crew house.
I'd like to express special thanks to Agathe, Nestor
and all the house staff for their fantastic job as
well as their continued support: every request we've
had has been met with a smile and immediate response:
thank you!
I am flying tonight but will arrange to meet Mr
Bellafdil tomorrow. As for the SA embassy, I will wait
for feedback from DHL.
Thanks for the DSTV, crew cards and charts.
I have made a new roster (yet again) and it caters for
the LBV pilots not coming back tomorrow just in case.
No other issues I can think of for the moment but will
let you know!
Cheers for now,
Ali
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Between Asia and South Africa
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I have to agree with rudeman , guys at solenta spend too much energy complaining , and the ones who are complaining never flew for another company . Grass always looks good on the other side of the fence , but ........ ,
Luckly there is some guys with good attitude like ali and others .
Luckly there is some guys with good attitude like ali and others .
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: western europe
Posts: 106
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Well this topic seems to be closing, since the Solenta crew have been based for over a week in Abidjan. All does seem well for now I hear.
JetWSH-I heard that more than half of the South African Solenta pilots are members of ALPA,its just the other half this company which are foreign pilots that are not members who won't join SA ALPA-perhaps INT ALPA???
As for Rudemans reply, funny was hearing from a Solenta pilot the other day that and see confirmation that they dont yet have the security company up and running-only by end of January.
And the crew are there now?(should they not be in place before you send your boys back?),
just put a quote below from out of Libreville with the latest summit yesterday. If you think its out of context then please visit the UN news site,
www.irinnews.org
QUOTE]"The head of state is sticking to the military option as the only way out of the crisis and is preparing for an imminent resumption of hostilities," the G7 said in a statement that was published by several Abidjan newspapers.[/QUOTE]
Rudeman/JACQUOUILLE-People dont necessary put posts on PPRUNE to complain, its more of awareness to all other aviators in similar positions of whats happening around?(not saying there are not complaints),just hope you were not being literal about dieing negative, after latest Abidjan incidents.
Sure everything will prob run smoothly for now, hope its not a gamble?.
Well now we wait till the next TOPIC on PPRUNE to surface out of Abidjan, hopefully later rather than sooner.
JetWSH-I heard that more than half of the South African Solenta pilots are members of ALPA,its just the other half this company which are foreign pilots that are not members who won't join SA ALPA-perhaps INT ALPA???
As for Rudemans reply, funny was hearing from a Solenta pilot the other day that and see confirmation that they dont yet have the security company up and running-only by end of January.
And the crew are there now?(should they not be in place before you send your boys back?),
just put a quote below from out of Libreville with the latest summit yesterday. If you think its out of context then please visit the UN news site,
www.irinnews.org
QUOTE]"The head of state is sticking to the military option as the only way out of the crisis and is preparing for an imminent resumption of hostilities," the G7 said in a statement that was published by several Abidjan newspapers.[/QUOTE]
Rudeman/JACQUOUILLE-People dont necessary put posts on PPRUNE to complain, its more of awareness to all other aviators in similar positions of whats happening around?(not saying there are not complaints),just hope you were not being literal about dieing negative, after latest Abidjan incidents.
Sure everything will prob run smoothly for now, hope its not a gamble?.
Well now we wait till the next TOPIC on PPRUNE to surface out of Abidjan, hopefully later rather than sooner.
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: All over Africa
Posts: 58
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Condition of aircraft....
RudeAwakening,
My, but you do have a lot of inside information:
Quote
"Compared to other operators out there the condition of their aircraft is absolutely horrendous."
When last did you fly in or with a Solenta aircraft? They might not be the best, but they are for sure maintained better than most....
Quote:
"The key professional facet in the whole operations is the pilots - from the Caravan pool to the ATR pool."
At least I can agree with one statement in this drivel....
Quote:
"And then, the first condition of employment with SOLENTA is that the guy forks out thousands of rands and does his rating WITH them."
This is new to me, but then you seem to have the facts. Last I heard, any pilot is welcome to go and get his/her C208/B1900/ATR rating on his/her own and I can guarantee that they will pay at least 30% more for the same rating. E.g. an ATR rating at FlighSafety is about USD18000 not including the airfares, accommodation etc. Solenta provides ATR conversions and obviously the candidates have to pay for the ratings, like you would at FlightSafety or any other training organisation.
So, RA, its very easy to criticise from the luxury of complete anonymity, but at least try and get your facts relatively straight.
My, but you do have a lot of inside information:
Quote
"Compared to other operators out there the condition of their aircraft is absolutely horrendous."
When last did you fly in or with a Solenta aircraft? They might not be the best, but they are for sure maintained better than most....
Quote:
"The key professional facet in the whole operations is the pilots - from the Caravan pool to the ATR pool."
At least I can agree with one statement in this drivel....
Quote:
"And then, the first condition of employment with SOLENTA is that the guy forks out thousands of rands and does his rating WITH them."
This is new to me, but then you seem to have the facts. Last I heard, any pilot is welcome to go and get his/her C208/B1900/ATR rating on his/her own and I can guarantee that they will pay at least 30% more for the same rating. E.g. an ATR rating at FlighSafety is about USD18000 not including the airfares, accommodation etc. Solenta provides ATR conversions and obviously the candidates have to pay for the ratings, like you would at FlightSafety or any other training organisation.
So, RA, its very easy to criticise from the luxury of complete anonymity, but at least try and get your facts relatively straight.
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: AFRICA
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Yes Solenta ATR crew have been based in Abidjan now for over a week. However, the majority of guys, in the region of 80%+ are still very unhappy with the way that the company has dealt with the whole situation and the so-called adequate measures that have been put in place. Management have clearly taken on the attitude of "if you don't like it, bear in mind that you are replacable" with a touch of "Africa is not for sissies" - right Rudeman?
This is a network of freespeach and therefore no facts should be hidden.
Quote:
"We just for info placed 3 x 1900D on contract in Afghanistan and Sierra Leone with unbelievable great crew.Guys that did not ask for more money."
Yes the crew is great on the 1900 pool. But so is the crew on the ATR fleet, we never hear any of this though... Further, one or two people may have hinted to have a "danger pay schedule" considered.
Quote:
"We have in ABJ as a company made sure that it is 100% safe to go back, the company also lost serious money and had to revamp the crew house all brand new now". "The house will be secured and armed guards are now at the house 24/7"
The crew is still asking for a risk analysis that has been done by management to make sure that all is safe and back to normal again. We are convinced none of this exists. Furthermore, embassies of Spain, Germany and the U.S.A have advised that the situation is not stable. Today Thabo Mbeki was heard on BBC Radio, after the AU summit in LBV to say that he does not recommend any South African go back into the Ivory Coast. As far as "armed" guards - Rudeman, do you mean security guards armed with battons and cuffs? We aint seen any armed guards yet. Rudeman and Freightboss, please enlighten us as to how you determined that things are 100% safe again for us? I'm sensing some dejavu back to November 2004...
Quote:
"A complete security solution with evac plans will be in place no later than the end of Jan by Securicor, yes the same guys that support the Bulls."
What about the evacuation plan? To double up on Airforce 1's question, how can you send the crew back into into ABJ before a evac plan is in place? It's very reassuring to know (for the 100th time) that Securicor guys are Bulls supporters - that'll keep us safe when the next raid comes through...
Quote:
"Further to this we have confirmed that are crew are all medically covered, we have confirmation from Workmans compensation that they will cover the crew for accidents/incidents and death or injury in all cases and we also have DHL life cover for all our crews. Show me any other comany at present that cover their crew on their insurance."
Rudeman - the crew have asked on a few occasions for hardcopies of this confirmation to be given to all. So far, no crew member has received a booklet outlining the terms and conditions of the policies you speak of - Lifecover and medical. How can you expect the crew to accept this coverage without knowing what the terms and conditions are? Funny, Dennis and Jankelow will not cover for Ivory Coast. This is their reply to a request for a life insurance quote: "Please note that as discussed we were unable to obtain a quotation including cover in the Ivory Coast as the Underwriter will not quote on the area due to: "the continuing volatility and potential for further violence". Please find attached Personal Accident Insurance quotation excluding the Ivory Coast"
Quote:
"Our crew are happy this is a good company except for the 3/4 negative guys on this site but I guess they will die negative."
Perhaps if you understood the extent to which the guys who were there were affected, you wouldn't even post this on PPrune. But I guess that is hard when you are used to the safety and comfort of your nice airconditioned office in Fourways (MILES AWAY FROM WHERE THE MONEY IS MADE).
"Africa is not for sissies..."
This is a network of freespeach and therefore no facts should be hidden.
Quote:
"We just for info placed 3 x 1900D on contract in Afghanistan and Sierra Leone with unbelievable great crew.Guys that did not ask for more money."
Yes the crew is great on the 1900 pool. But so is the crew on the ATR fleet, we never hear any of this though... Further, one or two people may have hinted to have a "danger pay schedule" considered.
Quote:
"We have in ABJ as a company made sure that it is 100% safe to go back, the company also lost serious money and had to revamp the crew house all brand new now". "The house will be secured and armed guards are now at the house 24/7"
The crew is still asking for a risk analysis that has been done by management to make sure that all is safe and back to normal again. We are convinced none of this exists. Furthermore, embassies of Spain, Germany and the U.S.A have advised that the situation is not stable. Today Thabo Mbeki was heard on BBC Radio, after the AU summit in LBV to say that he does not recommend any South African go back into the Ivory Coast. As far as "armed" guards - Rudeman, do you mean security guards armed with battons and cuffs? We aint seen any armed guards yet. Rudeman and Freightboss, please enlighten us as to how you determined that things are 100% safe again for us? I'm sensing some dejavu back to November 2004...
Quote:
"A complete security solution with evac plans will be in place no later than the end of Jan by Securicor, yes the same guys that support the Bulls."
What about the evacuation plan? To double up on Airforce 1's question, how can you send the crew back into into ABJ before a evac plan is in place? It's very reassuring to know (for the 100th time) that Securicor guys are Bulls supporters - that'll keep us safe when the next raid comes through...
Quote:
"Further to this we have confirmed that are crew are all medically covered, we have confirmation from Workmans compensation that they will cover the crew for accidents/incidents and death or injury in all cases and we also have DHL life cover for all our crews. Show me any other comany at present that cover their crew on their insurance."
Rudeman - the crew have asked on a few occasions for hardcopies of this confirmation to be given to all. So far, no crew member has received a booklet outlining the terms and conditions of the policies you speak of - Lifecover and medical. How can you expect the crew to accept this coverage without knowing what the terms and conditions are? Funny, Dennis and Jankelow will not cover for Ivory Coast. This is their reply to a request for a life insurance quote: "Please note that as discussed we were unable to obtain a quotation including cover in the Ivory Coast as the Underwriter will not quote on the area due to: "the continuing volatility and potential for further violence". Please find attached Personal Accident Insurance quotation excluding the Ivory Coast"
Quote:
"Our crew are happy this is a good company except for the 3/4 negative guys on this site but I guess they will die negative."
Perhaps if you understood the extent to which the guys who were there were affected, you wouldn't even post this on PPrune. But I guess that is hard when you are used to the safety and comfort of your nice airconditioned office in Fourways (MILES AWAY FROM WHERE THE MONEY IS MADE).
"Africa is not for sissies..."
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Asia
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
abidjan
yeah ATRWHORE!tell us what you really think.
i think all the pilots are still waiting for some proof of all these policies as well as the money for the reimbursment of our stolen goods.
thats all i am going to write.i dont want to die negative or to be accused of complaining to much like everyone else who has voiced their opinion on this thread.
fly safe you all
i think all the pilots are still waiting for some proof of all these policies as well as the money for the reimbursment of our stolen goods.
thats all i am going to write.i dont want to die negative or to be accused of complaining to much like everyone else who has voiced their opinion on this thread.
fly safe you all