COVID-19: BRISTOW HELICOPTER SACKS 100 PILOTS, ENGINEERS

Management of Bristow Helicopter, on Tuesday, sacked over 100 pilots and engineers.
The sacked workers included Nigerians and expatriates.
Workers of the company had on Monday embarked on a strike under the aegis of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers to demand equitable salary and remuneration.
But the airline has blamed the sacking of its workers on the impact of COVID-19 in the sector.
According to a statement from the company’s management, “The combined effects of these ‘arising’ has resulted in very significant reductions to our business, particularly a reduction in the number of contracted aircraft in Nigeria. As a result, the company must now restructure all aspects of its business model (both Rotary & Fixed Wing), including an extensive review of its operations and we continue to drive efficiencies, but with zero compromises to safety and our core values.
“One of these measures includes the right-sizing of the business to ensure that the company has the optimal level of personnel to continue the safe delivery of its services to its clients, whilst allowing the appropriate capacity for future growth. Accordingly, and with much regret, the company has taken the very difficult decision to release over 100 pilots and engineers (both National and Expatriates) over the next couple of weeks.”
The sacking of the workers followed the ongoing face-off between the unions and the Bristow management over labour matters.
National Vice President, National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, Capt. Yakubu Dukas, confirmed the development, but vowed to vehemently oppose the decision of the company’s management.