bmi/BMed (Crew thread)
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Any news or speculation as to what is going to happen at BMED long term? It has all gone worryingly quiet.
Is BMED going to be kept as a seperate entity from BMI long term?
Are positions in BMED going to be respected?
Will seniority lists be merged somehow?
Will routes and slots be transferred over to BMI, effectively leavig BMED to exist in name only? (an effective way of kicking all the cew out avoiding TUPE and redundancy law).
Will BMED be built upon?
There are a lot of F/O's who were hoping for commands in the very near future who are very worried that this will now not be possible as they will be at the bottom of a very long list. Captains want to remain so, trainers want to keep training etc etc. Several have firm job offers elsewhere and are in a dillemma, they may like to stay at BMED long term, they are not afraid of some positive changes, but just don't know what the future holds for them and don't want to miss good opportunities elsewhere. A lot of people are looking to leave! No news is being translated as bad news.
Is BMED going to be kept as a seperate entity from BMI long term?
Are positions in BMED going to be respected?
Will seniority lists be merged somehow?
Will routes and slots be transferred over to BMI, effectively leavig BMED to exist in name only? (an effective way of kicking all the cew out avoiding TUPE and redundancy law).
Will BMED be built upon?
There are a lot of F/O's who were hoping for commands in the very near future who are very worried that this will now not be possible as they will be at the bottom of a very long list. Captains want to remain so, trainers want to keep training etc etc. Several have firm job offers elsewhere and are in a dillemma, they may like to stay at BMED long term, they are not afraid of some positive changes, but just don't know what the future holds for them and don't want to miss good opportunities elsewhere. A lot of people are looking to leave! No news is being translated as bad news.
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Bloggs99
Hi Bloggs, thats quite a list you have there,however Bmi are taking over Bmed ,not the other way around.Lets not get too impatient which can lead to much speculation and perhaps bitterness.Ilook forward to working with the Bmed guys and remember I along with many do not want to get "one up" on anyone.
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Although I am sure that all are empathetic with the issues at hand and hard choices that are facing those at BMED one still has to remember that similar questions are being asked on the other side as well, and that there are some f/o's in bmi who have been with bmi longer than BMED has been in business, wondering about their command prospects.
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11:00 on 6th March the CEO of BMI is to make an announcement. Allegedly, an email should then follow to BMed staff reinterating the points for those unable to attend. Don't know whether BMI staff have the same information?
Last edited by take_that; 5th Mar 2007 at 12:35.
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LOOKS LIKE WE ARE HEADING TO A COMPLETE INTEGRATION WITH BMI.... QUEENS BUILDING AND SHORTHAUL! GOD HELP US! right... www.airlinejobs.com!!!!!! 
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Oh well, I'm sure that Toad Hall will let us know what is going on before, or at least at the same time, as everyone else ... oh, um, perhaps not then ...
http://www.flybmi.com/bmi/en-gb/abou...=2007&rid=1099
That'll make for an interesting Summer then ...
http://www.flybmi.com/bmi/en-gb/abou...=2007&rid=1099
That'll make for an interesting Summer then ...
Last edited by Grackle; 6th Mar 2007 at 12:32. Reason: Adding link to press release
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bmed/bmi integration
it was a memo emailed to all staff following the meeting this morning.
Queens Building as of the 28th Oct, bmi uniform, bmi livery, creation of Mid Haul Fleet.
an extract.....
cabin staff will commence.
Queens Building as of the 28th Oct, bmi uniform, bmi livery, creation of Mid Haul Fleet.
an extract.....
As with the flight deck community there is no risk of any job
losses. We will operate up to the end of the Summer timetable
all of the BMED routes with BMED aircraft and BMED crews.
After that, there will be a gradual integration of the bmi and
BMED cabin staff communities.losses. We will operate up to the end of the Summer timetable
all of the BMED routes with BMED aircraft and BMED crews.
After that, there will be a gradual integration of the bmi and
By 28 October 2007
o
The business will operate on a single bmi AOC (subject to CAA
approval).
approval).
o
All BA livery and uniforms will be removed and all uniformed staff will
be in bmi uniforms.
be in bmi uniforms.
o
A new mid haul product combining the best of BMED and the best of
bmi will be agreed and will commence roll out across all bmi mid haul
services.
bmi will be agreed and will commence roll out across all bmi mid haul
services.
o
All services will transfer from T4 at Heathrow to T1.
o
The BA franchise will cease, but subject to regulatory approval, BA will
retain a codeshare facility on the former BMED routes.
retain a codeshare facility on the former BMED routes.
o
Head office functions will be absorbed by bmi and BMED’s head office
at Hetherington House will close.
at Hetherington House will close.
•
From 28 October 2007
o
A gradual phased integration of the bmi and BMED flight deck and
cabin staff will commence.
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Nigel Turner Announcement
1
6 March 2007
Dear Colleagues
At the time of the announcement of the acquisition of BMED by bmi I made a
commitment that a comprehensive review of the business would take place over a 30
day period. This initial review is now complete and I want to share with everyone at
both BMED and bmi our conclusions and what the plans are for the coming months.
In assessing our investment in BMED before the decision to acquire our 99 per cent
shareholding it was clear that we could only justify such a major investment if we
were able to significantly reduce the cost base. This had to be achieved whilst still
maintaining revenue and developing and enhancing the network from Winter 2007. I
therefore set the review team the task of looking at the possibility of moving towards
a fully integrated operation as soon as practically possible. The team met for a two day
session some ten days ago and have developed an outline plan which will be further
refined over the next few weeks.
The review process has inevitably been mainly staffed so far by bmi senior
management but has involved senior representatives from BMED including chief
executive David Richardson. The key elements of the plan are:
• We will operate as one airline - bmi - from 28 October 2007.
• Until then BMED will continue to operate as a BA franchise with no change to
routes.
• From the second quarter of this year bmi will – subject to regulatory approval
and agreement of a codeshare with BA - be selling BMED services with travel
being available from date of sale.
• By 28 October 2007
o The business will operate on a single bmi AOC (subject to CAA
approval).
o All BA livery and uniforms will be removed and all uniformed staff will
be in bmi uniforms.
o A new mid haul product combining the best of BMED and the best of
bmi will be agreed and will commence roll out across all bmi mid haul
services.
o All services will transfer from T4 at Heathrow to T1.
o The BA franchise will cease, but subject to regulatory approval, BA will
retain a codeshare facility on the former BMED routes.
o Head office functions will be absorbed by bmi and BMED’s head office
at Hetherington House will close.
• From 28 October 2007
o A gradual phased integration of the bmi and BMED flight deck and
cabin staff will commence.
2
The immediate implications of the integration are that a substantial portion of the
BMED head office jobs are at risk of redundancy. However, the closure of Hetherington
House will not be immediate and will be spread over the remainder of this calendar
year. Within the rest of the BMED workforce, both in the UK and overseas, there is no
indication that any jobs will be lost with the exception of Heathrow T4. The continuity
of the BMED operation is critical and we will continue to operate all of the BMED
aircraft with BMED dedicated crews until at least 28 October. There will then be a
gradual integration of crews that will take us well into 2008 on current planning.
We will shortly be starting the formal consultation process to address any possible job
losses as a consequence of closing down BMED’s head office at Heathrow. Where job
losses at BMED are unavoidable we will be doing all possible to look at the suitability
of candidates for any vacancies that currently exist within bmi, in order to reduce the
number of compulsory job losses. With immediate effect, external recruitment in bmi
will only occur when every opportunity of redeploying affected BMED staff into
suitable available positions has been exhausted.
Specific details of the areas of BMED that are likely to be affected and the timescales
are as follows. In all cases where there is a threat of redundancy we will of course
commence the necessary period of consultation as soon as possible. This will, where
possible, be started well in advance of any minimum legislative period.
BMED Finance To coincide with the end of the BMED financial year it makes
sense to transfer all finance transactions to the bmi Oracle
financial system from 1 April 2007. Therefore all positions in the
BMED Heathrow-based finance function will end to coincide
with the end of year audit which is expected to be concluded by
May.
Therefore all jobs in the Heathrow finance function are at risk of
redundancy. None of the overseas finance jobs are affected.
We will talk to those affected by the closure of the finance
function in the near future.
BMED Commercial Further work is required on how we will integrate the
commercial activities of the one airline. However, we do not
intend to change any working practices until the Autumn when
we will be actively promoting and advertising the new bmi mid
haul network and product.
bmi does have offices in the Heathrow area. Some roles may be
transferred there and some roles may be transferred to the bmi
head office at Donington Hall.
At this stage, we anticipate retaining the bulk of the BMED
commercial team although there may be some risk of job loss
within the UK. We aim to have a formalised plan by June.
3
BMED HR All BMED HR activities will be integrated into bmi and
consequently there is a risk of redundancy.
BMED Engineers Further work is required on how we will integrate the
engineering functions of bmi and BMED to facilitate one AOC for
the two companies.
Although Heathrow based engineering roles may be at risk, bmi
does have an engineering facility at Heathrow and there may be
the opportunity for jobs to be transferred there.
We aim to have a clear way forward by early June.
BMED Flight Deck There is no risk of any jobs being lost as a consequence of the
integration of BMED into bmi. As has already been stated we will
operate up to the end of the Summer timetable all of the BMED
routes and with BMED aircraft and crew.
From that point onwards there will be a gradual integration of
the two flying communities which will run well into 2008.
We plan to commence discussion with BALPA this month about
the impact on terms and conditions, rosters and seniority and
hope to have these concluded by the end of July.
We anticipate the harmonisation of standard operating
procedures to commence Spring/Summer 2007. We will be
looking to tailor the current lifestyle preference schemes to best
meet the needs of the combined community. The latter task will
occur in consultation with BALPA, for introduction as crew
integration proceeds.
BMED Cabin Crew As with the flight deck community there is no risk of any job
losses. We will operate up to the end of the Summer timetable
all of the BMED routes with BMED aircraft and BMED crews.
After that, there will be a gradual integration of the bmi and
BMED cabin staff communities.
We plan to commence discussion with CC89 this month about
the impact on terms and conditions and rosters and hope to
have these concluded by the end of July.
4
BMED Management
/ admin
• Senior
management
• Airport service
admin /
management
• Inflight admin /
management
• Operations
admin /
management
• Quality &
Security
Unfortunately all of the BMED management and administration
roles in this section are at risk of redundancy. However, the
closure of Hetherington House will not take place immediately
and the process is expected to be gradual. Some positions may
be required until the end of October and some may even remain
beyond then. All Security, Quality & Safety posts will definitely
be required until 28 October and some may be required
thereafter. The integration planning process has now started and
we hope to be able to give everyone a clearer understanding of
what the integration programme will mean to them as soon as
possible.
BMED IT We anticipate that BMED will be using at least some of its
current range of IT systems until 28 October and BMED IT staff
will be needed to continue to support these systems until then.
After 28 October, we will then begin closing those BMED
systems down to enable a full integration into bmi. It is
envisioned that this process should be complete by the end of
the year.
As a consequence, we expect to retain the staff in those areas
until the end of the year.
We aim to have a clear way forward for the long term by the
middle of June.
BMED Overseas
Airports
There is no risk of any jobs being lost as a consequence of the
integration of BMED into bmi.
BMED LHR At this stage, we anticipate retaining the bulk of the BMED
Heathrow Airport T4 staff, however, there is a risk of redundancy
BMED Catering We already know that that we will not wish to make any
fundamental changes until the Autumn. At this stage we
anticipate some integration of the BMED staff into the bmi
catering team although limited redundancy cannot be ruled out.
Further work is required to decide exactly how we will integrate
the catering functions of BMED and bmi.
5
I fully appreciate that this is not an easy issue for BMED staff. I have committed to
David Richardson, and repeat here, that we will deal with all issues associated with this
process in a professional, responsible, sensitive and fair manner. An initial list of
possible “questions and answers” you will have arising out of the announcement is
attached to give you as much information as possible.
We will be putting in place a series of regular communications to keep you fully
updated on what action and progress the major integration workstreams have
achieved and how it will be helping our “one business” going forward. I genuinely
believe that we can create a combined business that is better than the sum of its parts.
It is critical that we do not lose the essence of BMED in the integration process.
I trust that I can count upon your future support in achieving the integration
programme in a timely and professional manner.
Kind regards
Nigel Turner
chief executive officer, bmi
6 March 2007
Dear Colleagues
At the time of the announcement of the acquisition of BMED by bmi I made a
commitment that a comprehensive review of the business would take place over a 30
day period. This initial review is now complete and I want to share with everyone at
both BMED and bmi our conclusions and what the plans are for the coming months.
In assessing our investment in BMED before the decision to acquire our 99 per cent
shareholding it was clear that we could only justify such a major investment if we
were able to significantly reduce the cost base. This had to be achieved whilst still
maintaining revenue and developing and enhancing the network from Winter 2007. I
therefore set the review team the task of looking at the possibility of moving towards
a fully integrated operation as soon as practically possible. The team met for a two day
session some ten days ago and have developed an outline plan which will be further
refined over the next few weeks.
The review process has inevitably been mainly staffed so far by bmi senior
management but has involved senior representatives from BMED including chief
executive David Richardson. The key elements of the plan are:
• We will operate as one airline - bmi - from 28 October 2007.
• Until then BMED will continue to operate as a BA franchise with no change to
routes.
• From the second quarter of this year bmi will – subject to regulatory approval
and agreement of a codeshare with BA - be selling BMED services with travel
being available from date of sale.
• By 28 October 2007
o The business will operate on a single bmi AOC (subject to CAA
approval).
o All BA livery and uniforms will be removed and all uniformed staff will
be in bmi uniforms.
o A new mid haul product combining the best of BMED and the best of
bmi will be agreed and will commence roll out across all bmi mid haul
services.
o All services will transfer from T4 at Heathrow to T1.
o The BA franchise will cease, but subject to regulatory approval, BA will
retain a codeshare facility on the former BMED routes.
o Head office functions will be absorbed by bmi and BMED’s head office
at Hetherington House will close.
• From 28 October 2007
o A gradual phased integration of the bmi and BMED flight deck and
cabin staff will commence.
2
The immediate implications of the integration are that a substantial portion of the
BMED head office jobs are at risk of redundancy. However, the closure of Hetherington
House will not be immediate and will be spread over the remainder of this calendar
year. Within the rest of the BMED workforce, both in the UK and overseas, there is no
indication that any jobs will be lost with the exception of Heathrow T4. The continuity
of the BMED operation is critical and we will continue to operate all of the BMED
aircraft with BMED dedicated crews until at least 28 October. There will then be a
gradual integration of crews that will take us well into 2008 on current planning.
We will shortly be starting the formal consultation process to address any possible job
losses as a consequence of closing down BMED’s head office at Heathrow. Where job
losses at BMED are unavoidable we will be doing all possible to look at the suitability
of candidates for any vacancies that currently exist within bmi, in order to reduce the
number of compulsory job losses. With immediate effect, external recruitment in bmi
will only occur when every opportunity of redeploying affected BMED staff into
suitable available positions has been exhausted.
Specific details of the areas of BMED that are likely to be affected and the timescales
are as follows. In all cases where there is a threat of redundancy we will of course
commence the necessary period of consultation as soon as possible. This will, where
possible, be started well in advance of any minimum legislative period.
BMED Finance To coincide with the end of the BMED financial year it makes
sense to transfer all finance transactions to the bmi Oracle
financial system from 1 April 2007. Therefore all positions in the
BMED Heathrow-based finance function will end to coincide
with the end of year audit which is expected to be concluded by
May.
Therefore all jobs in the Heathrow finance function are at risk of
redundancy. None of the overseas finance jobs are affected.
We will talk to those affected by the closure of the finance
function in the near future.
BMED Commercial Further work is required on how we will integrate the
commercial activities of the one airline. However, we do not
intend to change any working practices until the Autumn when
we will be actively promoting and advertising the new bmi mid
haul network and product.
bmi does have offices in the Heathrow area. Some roles may be
transferred there and some roles may be transferred to the bmi
head office at Donington Hall.
At this stage, we anticipate retaining the bulk of the BMED
commercial team although there may be some risk of job loss
within the UK. We aim to have a formalised plan by June.
3
BMED HR All BMED HR activities will be integrated into bmi and
consequently there is a risk of redundancy.
BMED Engineers Further work is required on how we will integrate the
engineering functions of bmi and BMED to facilitate one AOC for
the two companies.
Although Heathrow based engineering roles may be at risk, bmi
does have an engineering facility at Heathrow and there may be
the opportunity for jobs to be transferred there.
We aim to have a clear way forward by early June.
BMED Flight Deck There is no risk of any jobs being lost as a consequence of the
integration of BMED into bmi. As has already been stated we will
operate up to the end of the Summer timetable all of the BMED
routes and with BMED aircraft and crew.
From that point onwards there will be a gradual integration of
the two flying communities which will run well into 2008.
We plan to commence discussion with BALPA this month about
the impact on terms and conditions, rosters and seniority and
hope to have these concluded by the end of July.
We anticipate the harmonisation of standard operating
procedures to commence Spring/Summer 2007. We will be
looking to tailor the current lifestyle preference schemes to best
meet the needs of the combined community. The latter task will
occur in consultation with BALPA, for introduction as crew
integration proceeds.
BMED Cabin Crew As with the flight deck community there is no risk of any job
losses. We will operate up to the end of the Summer timetable
all of the BMED routes with BMED aircraft and BMED crews.
After that, there will be a gradual integration of the bmi and
BMED cabin staff communities.
We plan to commence discussion with CC89 this month about
the impact on terms and conditions and rosters and hope to
have these concluded by the end of July.
4
BMED Management
/ admin
• Senior
management
• Airport service
admin /
management
• Inflight admin /
management
• Operations
admin /
management
• Quality &
Security
Unfortunately all of the BMED management and administration
roles in this section are at risk of redundancy. However, the
closure of Hetherington House will not take place immediately
and the process is expected to be gradual. Some positions may
be required until the end of October and some may even remain
beyond then. All Security, Quality & Safety posts will definitely
be required until 28 October and some may be required
thereafter. The integration planning process has now started and
we hope to be able to give everyone a clearer understanding of
what the integration programme will mean to them as soon as
possible.
BMED IT We anticipate that BMED will be using at least some of its
current range of IT systems until 28 October and BMED IT staff
will be needed to continue to support these systems until then.
After 28 October, we will then begin closing those BMED
systems down to enable a full integration into bmi. It is
envisioned that this process should be complete by the end of
the year.
As a consequence, we expect to retain the staff in those areas
until the end of the year.
We aim to have a clear way forward for the long term by the
middle of June.
BMED Overseas
Airports
There is no risk of any jobs being lost as a consequence of the
integration of BMED into bmi.
BMED LHR At this stage, we anticipate retaining the bulk of the BMED
Heathrow Airport T4 staff, however, there is a risk of redundancy
BMED Catering We already know that that we will not wish to make any
fundamental changes until the Autumn. At this stage we
anticipate some integration of the BMED staff into the bmi
catering team although limited redundancy cannot be ruled out.
Further work is required to decide exactly how we will integrate
the catering functions of BMED and bmi.
5
I fully appreciate that this is not an easy issue for BMED staff. I have committed to
David Richardson, and repeat here, that we will deal with all issues associated with this
process in a professional, responsible, sensitive and fair manner. An initial list of
possible “questions and answers” you will have arising out of the announcement is
attached to give you as much information as possible.
We will be putting in place a series of regular communications to keep you fully
updated on what action and progress the major integration workstreams have
achieved and how it will be helping our “one business” going forward. I genuinely
believe that we can create a combined business that is better than the sum of its parts.
It is critical that we do not lose the essence of BMED in the integration process.
I trust that I can count upon your future support in achieving the integration
programme in a timely and professional manner.
Kind regards
Nigel Turner
chief executive officer, bmi
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Q&a Bmed Bmi
1
Q and A document – BMED integration
Jobs and redundancy
• How soon will I know if I have a job in the integrated airline?
This will vary by function. As Nigel announced we will be entering into a
collective consultation process as soon as possible during which we will identify
who will be remaining with the business.
• What happens next?
Following the announcement today we will be establishing the necessary
structures to enable formal consultation to commence as quickly as possible.
• Who will you consult with?
We are obliged to consult with elected staff representatives to deal with all
aspects of potential redundancies for those staff not represented by a
recognised union. As BMED already has a Company Council in place, we
anticipate that this will be the staff representative body for the purpose of the
consultation process.
The consultation process is expected to begin shortly and will last for a
minimum of 30 days and will include individual consultation with each affected
employee.
For cabin crew and pilot integration issues, we will be consulting in due course
with Amicus, CC89 and BALPA, the recognised unions for both BMED and bmi.
• What is redundancy consultation?
Formal redundancy consultation is an agreed legal process whereby an
employer liaises with representatives of the potentially redundant employees
over a designated time period in formal structured meetings. One of the key
objectives is to minimise the redundancies wherever possible. The process will
also establish exactly which roles are redundant and what assistance will be
available to affected staff, and what redundancy entitlements will be.
• Why can’t you tell us our entitlements now?
It is not our intention to avoid answering your questions. However, specific
details regarding how the redundancies should be dealt with must be handled
through the consultation process. This is a legal requirement which we must
comply with.
• When do you plan to start the consultation?
As soon as we can get the staff representatives together for a first meeting.
• Who will participate?
The relevant bmi and BMED directors together with the bmi HR manager and
the staff representatives.
• What information will we be given about the consultation?
Following each consultation meeting information will be given about what has
been discussed and agreed.
2
• Who can I ask if I have further questions?
Either your line manager or Sue Aslett, or Angela Walsh in bmi’s HR
department ([email protected]).
• If I retain my job will my terms and conditions remain the same?
There will be no immediate changes. As a principle, we would like all of our
colleagues to have the same terms and conditions at some point in the future.
We will consult with you fully when that arises.
• Will I have continuity of length of service benefits etc?
Yes.
• What about my pension?
No immediate change is planned. As and when individuals transfer to bmi we
will look to consolidate the BMED schemes with the various bmi schemes.
• Can I be forced to move to Castle Donington?
You cannot be forced to move to Castle Donington but if your role transfers
the only alternative may be redundancy.
• What redundancy pay do I get if I refuse a move to Castle Donington?
Policies on redundancy pay will be determined as part of the consultation
process.
• What redundancy pay do I get if my job disappears?
Policies on redundancy pay will be determined as part of the consultation
process.
• Who will deal with redundancy procedures – BMED or bmi ?
A combination of bmi and BMED.
• Is this a TUPE exercise?
TUPE stands for Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Act. It is
designed to protect the terms and conditions of people being transferred from
one company to another.
In this case BMED colleagues are still employed by BMED on the same
conditions and therefore TUPE does not apply.
• How do I apply for jobs within bmi?
This will be communicated as part of the broader consultation process.
• If I get a job in bmi will I get a relocation allowance?
Yes, the policy for relocation will be determined as part of the broader
consultation process.
• When will Hetherington House close down completely?
As soon as all processes and roles at Hetherington House are absorbed at other
bmi locations. We do not expect this to be before 28 October 2007.
• What is going to happen to Hetherington House after we leave?
We will seek to transfer the lease or sublet it to a third party.
3
Product
• What happens to the Airbus A321 aircraft and relevant associated equipment
orders?
We have no plans to cancel or postpone any aircraft orders or options.
• We have heard a lot about investment – will our older aircraft be refurbished?
Any aircraft refurbishment will be in line with plans to consolidate the bmi mid
haul product.
• When will the aircraft start to be painted?
We would ideally like to have all BMED aircraft flying in the bmi colours from
the commencement of the Winter timetable on 28 October. To achieve this
we need to establish the acceptability by BA of operating their franchise
services in the colours of bmi. If acceptable we anticipate starting a repainting
programme in June.
If it is not acceptable to fly in bmi colours then we will investigate the potential
for an interim neutral scheme.
• What about the aircraft interiors – will they change?
The interiors will be modified in line with plans to consolidate the mid haul
product.
• BMED and bmi aircraft have different sized cabins for business and economy -
will BMED aircraft be reconfigured?
In redefining the mid-haul product the preferred sizing of business and
economy will be determined.
• What will happen to the in-flight product – will it be the same as BMED?
We propose to launch a new mid-haul product that takes the best qualities of
bmi and BMED.
• Will we start to charge passengers for things that have been free in the past?
We propose to launch a new mid haul product that takes the best qualities of
bmi and BMED. This will be determined as part of this process.
• Will the same number of cabin staff operate on flights when they become bmi
services?
We propose to launch a new mid haul product that takes the best qualities of
bmi and BMED. This will be determined as part of this process.
• When will I get my new bmi uniform?
You will receive your uniform in good time for the commencement of services
as bmi from 28 October.
• When do I have to wear it from?
28 October.
4
• Will the bmi uniform policy be amended to take account of the new
destinations?
We aim to ensure that our uniform dress standards take into account all local
customs and traditions. At this stage there is no plan to amend the current
policy.
Network and routes
• When will you start to advertise BMED destinations as bmi destinations?
As soon as possible, although this is subject to agreement with BA on a suitable
codeshare arrangement.
• Has bmi got enough check in desks to handle the traffic at T1?
Yes.
• When will bmi announce new mid haul routes?
We announce new routes and destinations in line with the on sale dates in
order to give our competitors a minimal amount of time to adjust to our
presence.
• Will BMED slot times change?
One of the aims of the integration programme is to maximise the potential of
the slot times at Heathrow. BMED slot times will be part of this effort.
Terms and conditions of employment, lifestyle issues
• What about staff parking for crews etc near to T1?
Parking arrangements for T1 will be as per existing arrangements for bmi crew.
• Who pays me and from what date?
As from 1 April 2007 you will be transferred to the bmi group payroll. This will
have no impact on your terms and conditions of employment.
• Will mid haul crews have to operate to short haul destinations?
We anticipate the harmonisation of standard operating procedures to
commence in Spring/Summer 2007. We will be looking to tailor the current
lifestyle preference schemes to best meet the needs of the combined
community. This will be done in consultation with BALPA and CC89 for
introduction as crew integration proceeds. There will be a gradual integration of
the two flying communities which will run well into 2008.
• What if I live a long way from base because I only come to work about five or
six times a month?
See answer above.
• Does bmi recognise all of the trade unions in BMED?
Yes. In addition, there are a number of other trade unions that bmi recognises.
5
• How will flight deck seniority be handled?
We plan to commence discussion with BALPA this month on seniority. We
hope to have these discussions concluded by the end of July.
• How do we book staff travel after 28 October?
This will be communicated as part of the integration programme.
• What happens to our preferential travel concessions with BA?
These will continue to operate until 27 October after which they will no longer
be in place.
What about travel on bmi – does our BMED length of service count?
Yes
• Since we are now part of bmi, when can we access bmi travel concessions?
This will be communicated as part of the integration programme.
• Do bmi staff get travel concessions on other Star Alliance carriers?
Yes, but this varies by individual Star Alliance member.
Other
• Will BMED continue as a separate company?
This will be the subject of further review during the integration programme.
• What will happen to BMED directors?
This will be determined as part of the consultation process.
• Will future communications come from BMED or bmi?
Future communications on the integration programme will be agreed by the
Steering Group comprising David Richardson, Nigel Turner and Tim Bye and
will go to all staff from both companies. Specific BMED communication will
continue to come from David Richardson.
• How will I know what is happening with the integration process?
We will put in place regular update communications to inform all staff in both
bmi and BMED about the progress of the integration. Further details will be
communicated to you regarding this shortly.
Operational
• Why do we need one AOC?
Our aim is to operate as one airline with a common set of Standard Operating
Procedures. This will provide us with a number of benefits including integration
of crews and engineering and also avoid unnecessary duplication.
• What could prevent us from having one AOC?
There are a number of approvals that are required which could in theory
prevent us from moving to a single AOC. These primarily rest with the DfT and
the CAA.
6
• When will we know whether it is one or two AOCs?
As the integration programme progresses we will have constant dialogue with
the regulatory authorities to establish the likely timeline to operate under one
AOC.
• What would be the effect of two AOCs?
The new bmi would not be able to benefit from the full range of synergies in
taking the business forward.
• What happens if the designation that overseas countries have given to BMED is
not assigned to bmi?
We will be working closely with the DfT to ensure that this does not occur.
• When will crew report switch to the Queens Building?
The exact timing will be defined as part of the integration programme and is
planned to coincide with the transfer of services from T4 to T1.
• Is there enough room for all the crews at the Queens Building?
Yes.
• What happens with the redevelopment of T1?
The BAA has already produced detailed plans for facilities for bmi and other
Star Alliance carriers in a new Heathrow East Terminal. This terminal will place
bmi at the centre of this development with facilities that will match those
enjoyed by BA at the new T5.
Q and A document – BMED integration
Jobs and redundancy
• How soon will I know if I have a job in the integrated airline?
This will vary by function. As Nigel announced we will be entering into a
collective consultation process as soon as possible during which we will identify
who will be remaining with the business.
• What happens next?
Following the announcement today we will be establishing the necessary
structures to enable formal consultation to commence as quickly as possible.
• Who will you consult with?
We are obliged to consult with elected staff representatives to deal with all
aspects of potential redundancies for those staff not represented by a
recognised union. As BMED already has a Company Council in place, we
anticipate that this will be the staff representative body for the purpose of the
consultation process.
The consultation process is expected to begin shortly and will last for a
minimum of 30 days and will include individual consultation with each affected
employee.
For cabin crew and pilot integration issues, we will be consulting in due course
with Amicus, CC89 and BALPA, the recognised unions for both BMED and bmi.
• What is redundancy consultation?
Formal redundancy consultation is an agreed legal process whereby an
employer liaises with representatives of the potentially redundant employees
over a designated time period in formal structured meetings. One of the key
objectives is to minimise the redundancies wherever possible. The process will
also establish exactly which roles are redundant and what assistance will be
available to affected staff, and what redundancy entitlements will be.
• Why can’t you tell us our entitlements now?
It is not our intention to avoid answering your questions. However, specific
details regarding how the redundancies should be dealt with must be handled
through the consultation process. This is a legal requirement which we must
comply with.
• When do you plan to start the consultation?
As soon as we can get the staff representatives together for a first meeting.
• Who will participate?
The relevant bmi and BMED directors together with the bmi HR manager and
the staff representatives.
• What information will we be given about the consultation?
Following each consultation meeting information will be given about what has
been discussed and agreed.
2
• Who can I ask if I have further questions?
Either your line manager or Sue Aslett, or Angela Walsh in bmi’s HR
department ([email protected]).
• If I retain my job will my terms and conditions remain the same?
There will be no immediate changes. As a principle, we would like all of our
colleagues to have the same terms and conditions at some point in the future.
We will consult with you fully when that arises.
• Will I have continuity of length of service benefits etc?
Yes.
• What about my pension?
No immediate change is planned. As and when individuals transfer to bmi we
will look to consolidate the BMED schemes with the various bmi schemes.
• Can I be forced to move to Castle Donington?
You cannot be forced to move to Castle Donington but if your role transfers
the only alternative may be redundancy.
• What redundancy pay do I get if I refuse a move to Castle Donington?
Policies on redundancy pay will be determined as part of the consultation
process.
• What redundancy pay do I get if my job disappears?
Policies on redundancy pay will be determined as part of the consultation
process.
• Who will deal with redundancy procedures – BMED or bmi ?
A combination of bmi and BMED.
• Is this a TUPE exercise?
TUPE stands for Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Act. It is
designed to protect the terms and conditions of people being transferred from
one company to another.
In this case BMED colleagues are still employed by BMED on the same
conditions and therefore TUPE does not apply.
• How do I apply for jobs within bmi?
This will be communicated as part of the broader consultation process.
• If I get a job in bmi will I get a relocation allowance?
Yes, the policy for relocation will be determined as part of the broader
consultation process.
• When will Hetherington House close down completely?
As soon as all processes and roles at Hetherington House are absorbed at other
bmi locations. We do not expect this to be before 28 October 2007.
• What is going to happen to Hetherington House after we leave?
We will seek to transfer the lease or sublet it to a third party.
3
Product
• What happens to the Airbus A321 aircraft and relevant associated equipment
orders?
We have no plans to cancel or postpone any aircraft orders or options.
• We have heard a lot about investment – will our older aircraft be refurbished?
Any aircraft refurbishment will be in line with plans to consolidate the bmi mid
haul product.
• When will the aircraft start to be painted?
We would ideally like to have all BMED aircraft flying in the bmi colours from
the commencement of the Winter timetable on 28 October. To achieve this
we need to establish the acceptability by BA of operating their franchise
services in the colours of bmi. If acceptable we anticipate starting a repainting
programme in June.
If it is not acceptable to fly in bmi colours then we will investigate the potential
for an interim neutral scheme.
• What about the aircraft interiors – will they change?
The interiors will be modified in line with plans to consolidate the mid haul
product.
• BMED and bmi aircraft have different sized cabins for business and economy -
will BMED aircraft be reconfigured?
In redefining the mid-haul product the preferred sizing of business and
economy will be determined.
• What will happen to the in-flight product – will it be the same as BMED?
We propose to launch a new mid-haul product that takes the best qualities of
bmi and BMED.
• Will we start to charge passengers for things that have been free in the past?
We propose to launch a new mid haul product that takes the best qualities of
bmi and BMED. This will be determined as part of this process.
• Will the same number of cabin staff operate on flights when they become bmi
services?
We propose to launch a new mid haul product that takes the best qualities of
bmi and BMED. This will be determined as part of this process.
• When will I get my new bmi uniform?
You will receive your uniform in good time for the commencement of services
as bmi from 28 October.
• When do I have to wear it from?
28 October.
4
• Will the bmi uniform policy be amended to take account of the new
destinations?
We aim to ensure that our uniform dress standards take into account all local
customs and traditions. At this stage there is no plan to amend the current
policy.
Network and routes
• When will you start to advertise BMED destinations as bmi destinations?
As soon as possible, although this is subject to agreement with BA on a suitable
codeshare arrangement.
• Has bmi got enough check in desks to handle the traffic at T1?
Yes.
• When will bmi announce new mid haul routes?
We announce new routes and destinations in line with the on sale dates in
order to give our competitors a minimal amount of time to adjust to our
presence.
• Will BMED slot times change?
One of the aims of the integration programme is to maximise the potential of
the slot times at Heathrow. BMED slot times will be part of this effort.
Terms and conditions of employment, lifestyle issues
• What about staff parking for crews etc near to T1?
Parking arrangements for T1 will be as per existing arrangements for bmi crew.
• Who pays me and from what date?
As from 1 April 2007 you will be transferred to the bmi group payroll. This will
have no impact on your terms and conditions of employment.
• Will mid haul crews have to operate to short haul destinations?
We anticipate the harmonisation of standard operating procedures to
commence in Spring/Summer 2007. We will be looking to tailor the current
lifestyle preference schemes to best meet the needs of the combined
community. This will be done in consultation with BALPA and CC89 for
introduction as crew integration proceeds. There will be a gradual integration of
the two flying communities which will run well into 2008.
• What if I live a long way from base because I only come to work about five or
six times a month?
See answer above.
• Does bmi recognise all of the trade unions in BMED?
Yes. In addition, there are a number of other trade unions that bmi recognises.
5
• How will flight deck seniority be handled?
We plan to commence discussion with BALPA this month on seniority. We
hope to have these discussions concluded by the end of July.
• How do we book staff travel after 28 October?
This will be communicated as part of the integration programme.
• What happens to our preferential travel concessions with BA?
These will continue to operate until 27 October after which they will no longer
be in place.
What about travel on bmi – does our BMED length of service count?
Yes
• Since we are now part of bmi, when can we access bmi travel concessions?
This will be communicated as part of the integration programme.
• Do bmi staff get travel concessions on other Star Alliance carriers?
Yes, but this varies by individual Star Alliance member.
Other
• Will BMED continue as a separate company?
This will be the subject of further review during the integration programme.
• What will happen to BMED directors?
This will be determined as part of the consultation process.
• Will future communications come from BMED or bmi?
Future communications on the integration programme will be agreed by the
Steering Group comprising David Richardson, Nigel Turner and Tim Bye and
will go to all staff from both companies. Specific BMED communication will
continue to come from David Richardson.
• How will I know what is happening with the integration process?
We will put in place regular update communications to inform all staff in both
bmi and BMED about the progress of the integration. Further details will be
communicated to you regarding this shortly.
Operational
• Why do we need one AOC?
Our aim is to operate as one airline with a common set of Standard Operating
Procedures. This will provide us with a number of benefits including integration
of crews and engineering and also avoid unnecessary duplication.
• What could prevent us from having one AOC?
There are a number of approvals that are required which could in theory
prevent us from moving to a single AOC. These primarily rest with the DfT and
the CAA.
6
• When will we know whether it is one or two AOCs?
As the integration programme progresses we will have constant dialogue with
the regulatory authorities to establish the likely timeline to operate under one
AOC.
• What would be the effect of two AOCs?
The new bmi would not be able to benefit from the full range of synergies in
taking the business forward.
• What happens if the designation that overseas countries have given to BMED is
not assigned to bmi?
We will be working closely with the DfT to ensure that this does not occur.
• When will crew report switch to the Queens Building?
The exact timing will be defined as part of the integration programme and is
planned to coincide with the transfer of services from T4 to T1.
• Is there enough room for all the crews at the Queens Building?
Yes.
• What happens with the redevelopment of T1?
The BAA has already produced detailed plans for facilities for bmi and other
Star Alliance carriers in a new Heathrow East Terminal. This terminal will place
bmi at the centre of this development with facilities that will match those
enjoyed by BA at the new T5.
Join Date: May 2002
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Oh dear chaps. You'll be doing four sector earlies soon! I have also heard it's quite a fun operation at BMED, just wait till bmi take all that away in the way only they know how... The very best of luck to all BMED pilots in what will probably be uncertain times ahead over the coming months.
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Why? Will somebody explain please?
there are some f/o's in bmi who have been with bmi longer than BMED has been in business, wondering about their command prospects.
This is a recurring theme that has been mentioned many times but nobody has explained why..........
I know several people who have got commands at Midland within 4-5 years. Admittedly there was pain post 9/11, but what are the issues here?
It will be sad to see the end of BMed as we now know it but being a "glass is half full kind of chap," looking forward to the future...........
......... but not the hats
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Going to be interesting, some of BMeds capts were made redundant as F/O's by BMi post 9/11 and will now join the mainline seniority list as skippers well ahead of a shed full of BMi chaps - guess the F/O's will have to lump it?? After baby most guys on the line either not aware or just resigned to the fact!!!
Am part time so not really felt the kickback yet - any views??
Am part time so not really felt the kickback yet - any views??
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Is it just me or have we just seen the very first timely, informative, balanced and useful piece of communication from a bmi manager to the staff?
Perhaps PiB have been doing some good.
Perhaps PiB have been doing some good.
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Open skies is a done deal....
Now that Open skies is a done deal....subject to U.S. ratification.and LHR is to be opened up by March 2008.
Does the bmi/BMed T1 LHR routes hub start to make more sense with a bmi U.K.-U.S route structure now probable.....you bet!!
Looking for change expecting a gread deal of it by this time next year.
MR120
Does the bmi/BMed T1 LHR routes hub start to make more sense with a bmi U.K.-U.S route structure now probable.....you bet!!
Looking for change expecting a gread deal of it by this time next year.
MR120
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A bit more detail today
Company Announcement to bmi Staff today,
Dear Colleague
I am thrilled to let you know that a landmark decision has today been made in Brussels that creates the opportunity for us to serve the US from our mainline base at Heathrow. EU Ministers of Transport have today voted in favour of a deal that enables any EU airline to serve any US destination from any EU airport. The effect of this new deal removes the 30 year old Bermuda II agreement that had limited to just two UK and two US carriers serving this market from Heathrow.
This is a landmark moment in world aviation and opens up tremendous opportunities to gain further access to the UK/US air market, a market that represents over 40 per cent of the total EU/US traffic. First and foremost we must applaud Douglas Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, for supporting the agreement in the key vote taken today at a meeting of the EU’s 27 Member States’ transport ministers in Brussels.
The UK Government has taken the interests of UK plc and the UK travelling public seriously in supporting this open skies agreement. This was a brave move in the face of stiff opposition from the two UK airlines that have for years enjoyed a protected transatlantic market from Heathrow.
We are now ideally placed to take advantage of this major breakthrough and turn into reality our long held ambition to commence services to the US from Heathrow. I am convinced that as in the past we will have a major impact not only on point-to-point traffic, but also on network competition from our wide range of domestic, European and other longhaul services.
We have been keeping potential US routes under review for some time and will now be discussing the possibilities with the Board over the coming weeks. As soon as we are in a position to make a firm announcement about our plans I will let you know.
kind regards
Nigel Turner
Dear Colleague
I am thrilled to let you know that a landmark decision has today been made in Brussels that creates the opportunity for us to serve the US from our mainline base at Heathrow. EU Ministers of Transport have today voted in favour of a deal that enables any EU airline to serve any US destination from any EU airport. The effect of this new deal removes the 30 year old Bermuda II agreement that had limited to just two UK and two US carriers serving this market from Heathrow.
This is a landmark moment in world aviation and opens up tremendous opportunities to gain further access to the UK/US air market, a market that represents over 40 per cent of the total EU/US traffic. First and foremost we must applaud Douglas Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, for supporting the agreement in the key vote taken today at a meeting of the EU’s 27 Member States’ transport ministers in Brussels.
The UK Government has taken the interests of UK plc and the UK travelling public seriously in supporting this open skies agreement. This was a brave move in the face of stiff opposition from the two UK airlines that have for years enjoyed a protected transatlantic market from Heathrow.
We are now ideally placed to take advantage of this major breakthrough and turn into reality our long held ambition to commence services to the US from Heathrow. I am convinced that as in the past we will have a major impact not only on point-to-point traffic, but also on network competition from our wide range of domestic, European and other longhaul services.
We have been keeping potential US routes under review for some time and will now be discussing the possibilities with the Board over the coming weeks. As soon as we are in a position to make a firm announcement about our plans I will let you know.
kind regards
Nigel Turner
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N.T. Interview Re Open Skies
This was in todays Observer Business and Media section.
MR120
MR120
BMI chief executive Nigel Turner said he expected to switch domestic routes to the US when the 'open skies' deal comes into effect next spring. He said BMI is likely to start with three flights a day, possibly to Chicago, Charlotte, North Carolina or New York. BMI plans to buy another three Airbus A330 planes to service the routes. The airline is looking to expand US routes in future.
Turner said: 'Inevitably there will be some reduction in short-haul flying' and added that increases to air passenger duty, which is levied on each take-off and landing in the UK, would mean UK regional routes would be the most likely to be re-allocated.
He added that BMI would look to reduce business-class fares across the Atlantic by some 10 per cent and ruled out any sale of its Heathrow slots.
Turner said: 'Inevitably there will be some reduction in short-haul flying' and added that increases to air passenger duty, which is levied on each take-off and landing in the UK, would mean UK regional routes would be the most likely to be re-allocated.
He added that BMI would look to reduce business-class fares across the Atlantic by some 10 per cent and ruled out any sale of its Heathrow slots.
