Concerned by job cuts and potential consequences on safety, North Sea helicopter pilots could go on strike soon, the British Airline Pilots Association (Balpa) has warned. An indicative ballot yielded a high turnout and a strong “yes,” according to Balpa. “In the event management do not substantially shift their position, Balpa's National Executive Council will be meeting early next month to consider a move to a formal strike vote,” said Balpa general secretary Jim McAuslan.

More than a third of helicopter pilots operating in the UK North Sea met two weeks ago in Aberdeen, according to Balpa. They expressed worry about the pilot job cuts CHC Scotia and Bristow announced in recent weeks, culling the employee rolls by 25 and 66, respectively. Balpa cited the need for “decent voluntary terms,” more part-time working options and “objective and transparent redundancy selection criteria, paying proper regard to flying experience.”

The association fears job losses could lead to corners being cut. Moreover, uncertainty has generated anxiety, which in turn is affecting safety, Balpa added. The union asserts that the threat hanging over pilots is disrupting their sleep and ability to concentrate. Last year, there were 570 pilots flying in the UK North Sea.