Bristow says it has agreed to meet with the British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA) in an effort to end the ongoing strike action among its pilots and tech crews in the U.K.
The rotating strike action is now into its third week, impacting both Bristow’s offshore energy and search-and-rescue divisions. The striking pilots and tech crews claim that Bristow’s management have failed to offer “a fair and reasonable” pay deal.
BALPA, representing those on strike, said a revised offer from Bristow “was virtually indistinguishable” from the one rejected by its members, and included reductions in terms and conditions.
In response, Bristow said it was being “as transparent as possible” regarding the amendments it has made. In a statement supplied to media, it suggested it was open to negotiating these terms.
“The proposed pay scales have been shared with both BALPA and the employees concerned, while the latest improved offer addresses multiple points raised by staff,” a Bristow spokesperson said.
“The only way forward is if BALPA agree to discuss terms and conditions associated with the pay offer. It is common practice for terms and conditions to be discussed and negotiated during pay offer talks.”
Bristow said the date and time of the meeting — to be held with an independent arbitrator — is to be confirmed.
“It is important to remember these talks should have a purpose, and it is imperative that BALPA enter any discussions able to demonstrate precisely, to all of us, what areas of the deal offered are serious enough to continue striking over,” the spokesperson said. “Only then will we be able to move on.”
